NEW YORK
Linda McMahon, the U.S. Secretary of Education, expressed a hopeful perspective on Columbia University’s pursuit of reinstating its federal funding. This optimism comes in light of the university’s commitment to implement several policy changes mandated by the Trump administration.
During a recent appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union,” McMahon highlighted the constructive dialogue she had with Columbia’s interim president, Katrina Armstrong.
Armstrong disclosed on Friday that the university plans to restructure its Middle East studies department and revise its policies regarding protests and student behavior. Furthermore, Columbia aims to adopt a new definition of antisemitism and bolster “intellectual diversity” by expanding its Institute for Israel and Jewish Studies, as per the information available on the university’s website.
Earlier this month, the Trump administration terminated $400 million in research funding and other financial aid due to the university’s management of protests related to Israel’s military actions in Gaza. To reconsider the restoration of these funds and potentially access billions more in future grants, federal officials have outlined nine specific changes needed in the university’s academic and security policies.
The response from Armstrong to the administration’s demands has faced criticism from some faculty members and advocates for free speech, who contend that the university is yielding to an unprecedented level of government intrusion into academic freedom.
When questioned whether Columbia’s actions would be adequate to secure its funding, McMahon stated: “We are currently on the right path to finalize negotiations for the release of those funds.”
The Trump administration’s measures against Columbia University, which has become a central figure in a significant pro-Palestinian protest movement that began with a tent encampment last spring, have stirred unrest on campus and raised alarms about similar efforts at universities across the country.
On March 8, federal immigration agents apprehended Mahmoud Khalil, an activist who served as a spokesperson and negotiator for pro-Palestinian demonstrators last year. Khalil, a legal permanent resident, is contesting his detention and the potential for deportation through the judicial system.
