Trump Could Regain Enormous Power Over the Country’s Universities: Higher Ed Braces for Potential Changes
As the United States transitions to a new administration, the future of higher education is at the forefront of many people’s minds. With President-elect Joe Biden set to take office in January, there is much speculation about what changes may come for the country’s universities. However, there is another possibility that is often overlooked – the potential for former President Donald Trump to regain enormous power over higher education.
During his time in office, Trump made several attempts to reshape the landscape of higher education. From his controversial immigration policies to his push for free speech on college campuses, Trump’s agenda had a significant impact on universities across the country. And with the possibility of a Republican-controlled Senate, Trump could once again have a major influence on the future of higher education.
One of the key areas where Trump could regain power is in immigration policies. During his presidency, Trump implemented several policies that made it more difficult for international students to study in the US. This included the travel ban on several Muslim-majority countries and the proposed changes to the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows international students to work in the US after graduation. These policies caused a decline in international student enrollment, which not only affected the diversity of campuses but also had a significant economic impact on universities.
With Trump potentially regaining power, there is a concern that these policies could be reinstated or even strengthened. This would not only have a negative impact on international students but also on the universities that rely on their tuition dollars. It could also discourage international students from choosing the US as their study destination, further damaging the reputation and competitiveness of American universities.
Another area where Trump could have a significant impact is on free speech on college campuses. During his presidency, Trump signed an executive order that threatened to withhold federal funding from universities that did not uphold free speech on campus. While this may seem like a positive move, many higher education institutions argued that it was unnecessary and could potentially limit academic freedom. With Trump potentially regaining power, there is a possibility that this executive order could be expanded, leading to further tension between universities and the government.
Furthermore, Trump’s agenda also included a push for vocational and technical education, which could have a significant impact on traditional four-year universities. With the rise of automation and the decline of certain industries, there has been a growing demand for skilled workers in fields such as healthcare and technology. Trump’s focus on vocational education could lead to a shift in funding and resources away from traditional universities, forcing them to adapt and compete for students in this changing landscape.
While these potential changes may seem daunting, it is important to note that higher education has already been bracing for them. Universities have been working to diversify their international student populations and have been advocating for free speech on campus. They have also been adapting their programs to meet the demand for skilled workers in emerging industries. However, with Trump potentially regaining power, these efforts may need to be intensified.
It is also worth noting that Trump’s agenda for higher education was not all negative. He signed the FUTURE Act, which permanently funded Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs). He also expanded the Pell Grant program, providing more financial aid to low-income students. These are positive steps that should be acknowledged and continued by the incoming administration.
In conclusion, while much of the focus has been on the potential changes that may come with the Biden administration, it is important to also consider the possibility of Trump regaining power and the impact it could have on higher education. Universities must continue to adapt and prepare for any potential changes, while also advocating for policies that support their students and institutions. It is a challenging time for higher education, but with resilience and determination, universities can continue to thrive and provide quality education for all students.
