NYU hits the panic button as the Trump administration’s crackdown on woke college programs intensifies, announcing a hiring freeze amid fears of losing crucial federal funding. The prestigious university now finds itself among 50+ institutions under federal microscope for questionable diversity initiatives.
At a glance:
• NYU has implemented a hiring freeze due to potential Trump administration funding cuts
• The university is being investigated for its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs
• Federal funding represents 11% of NYU’s operating revenue
• The Education Department is targeting “race-exclusionary practices” in graduate programs
• Similar hiring freezes have been enacted at Columbia, Cornell, and University of Washington
Trump Administration Targets Woke University Programs
New York University has implemented a hiring freeze as the Trump administration ramps up its investigation into DEI programs at the institution. The move comes as NYU faces potential cuts to federal funding that currently represents 11% of its operating revenue.
Trump is closing in on their illegal activity, and they know it.
President Trump’s administration has specifically targeted NYU as part of a broader campaign against diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at American universities. Education Secretary Linda McMahon is leading the charge against what the department describes as “race-exclusionary practices” in graduate programs.
University Leadership Braces for Impact
NYU President Linda Mills acknowledged the uncertain future in a message to the university community. “We don’t yet know whether, when or to what extent these or other measures may be enacted,” Mills stated, highlighting the proactive approach the university is taking.
Mills emphasized the university’s commitment to risk management while suggesting additional measures may be necessary beyond the hiring freeze. The President indicated potential lower salary increases and exploration of alternative revenue generation methods to offset possible funding losses.
“In the meantime, we continue to vigorously advocate for robust federal support of higher education. Given the scale of potential outcomes, however, we need to address risks sooner than later,” Mills added in her communication to staff and faculty.
Broader Crackdown on Higher Education
NYU joins Columbia, Cornell University, and the University of Washington in implementing hiring freezes amid increased federal scrutiny. The Education Department has already revoked significant funding from Columbia University and the University of Pennsylvania for separate issues.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon has made the department’s position clear regarding the investigations. “The Department is working to reorient civil rights enforcement to ensure all students are protected from illegal discrimination,” McMahon stated as part of the announcement expanding the investigation.
“Today’s announcement expands our efforts to ensure universities are not discriminating against their students based on race and race stereotypes,” McMahon further explained regarding the department’s ongoing efforts.
The investigation specifically targets NYU’s partnership with The Ph.D. Project, which supports doctoral students and has been accused of limiting eligibility based on race. Facing scrutiny, The Ph.D. Project has recently opened its membership to anyone sharing its vision while reaffirming its mission to diversify business education.
