A Change in the White House: What College Presidents Should Know

Next week’s U.S. Presidential election may usher in material changes for higher education leaders. Preparing for varying scenarios becomes crucial for college presidents and boards, especially in light of former President Trump’s stated policy goals. If Trump wins the election, several areas stand out as critical: the future of the Department of Education, the availability of financial aid, and the preservation of academic freedoms at universities.

The Potential Dissolution of the Department of Education

One of the more striking proposals from former President Trump during his previous term and campaign rhetoric has been the potential dismantling of the Department of Education (DOE). Though abolishing a federal department would be a complex and unprecedented maneuver, Trump’s stance raises questions about the future scope of federal oversight in education.

College presidents may need to brace for sweeping structural changes, including potentially reallocating regulatory and funding responsibilities to state governments. This could create a patchwork effect in education policy, with state-level governments setting the rules, funding mechanisms, and oversight criteria. For colleges and universities, this may mean adapting to new and varied compliance standards, and college presidents may face the challenge of aligning their institutions' policies with these shifting state regulations.

Financial Aid and Federal Funding

Federal financial aid is a cornerstone of higher education accessibility, with Pell Grants and federal student loans serving as lifelines for many students. During his previous administration, Trump proposed various changes to student aid programs, including cuts to federal loan subsidies and reductions in programs supporting low-income students. If a Trump administration were to realign federal priorities, colleges may see greater pressure to fill funding gaps or to address affordability concerns directly.

A Trump win could also signal a shift toward more privatization within student lending. College leaders should be aware that this could lead to an increased role for private lenders and less predictable student aid packages. In anticipation of these potential changes, proactive presidents might consider developing new institutional aid programs or expanding partnerships to provide financial stability for their student populations.

Implications for Academic Freedoms

Recent debates over academic freedoms and ideological diversity have only intensified, with claims that universities have increasingly become ideological echo chambers. Trump’s previous administration and ongoing campaign have criticized what they describe as a stifling of conservative viewpoints on campuses.

If Trump wins, college leaders may see a push for legislation linking federal funding to assurances of viewpoint diversity and free speech protections. In such a scenario, institutions could face heightened scrutiny and pressures to justify curriculum decisions, hiring practices, and campus events. College presidents will likely have to navigate these dynamics, balancing the call for viewpoint inclusivity with academic autonomy and the traditional freedoms of their faculty and students.

The Role of Compliance and Regulation

College compliance departments should also prepare for potential changes in Title IX enforcement and other federal regulations. During Trump’s previous term, his administration made notable changes to Title IX rules, including a narrowed definition of sexual harassment and a shift in procedural rules for handling complaints. A similar regulatory shift could emerge if Trump wins, leading to renewed discussions around due process and institutional obligations.

Changes to federal regulations could also impact institutional accreditation standards and their associated compliance burdens. College presidents may face the challenge of navigating a regulatory landscape that increasingly differs from one presidential administration to the next.

Institutional Planning and Strategic Response

College presidents are uniquely positioned to lead their institutions through potentially turbulent times. Strategic planning and engaging key stakeholders, including faculty, students, state policymakers, and governing boards, will be essential. Effective leaders will have to employ agility in adapting to potential policy shifts while remaining steadfast in their mission of educating and empowering students.

Proactive measures may include:

• Engaging State Lawmakers: Building relationships with state policymakers can ensure institutional priorities align with potential state-level policy changes.

• Reevaluating Financial Aid Strategies: Colleges may need to increase their focus on private and institutional aid to supplement or replace federal funding gaps.

• Reaffirming Institutional Values: Emphasizing a commitment to academic freedom, inclusivity, and diverse viewpoints will be vital to maintaining trust within the academic community.

  
  

Expert Guidance Can Help

By focusing on critical areas such as federal oversight, financial aid, and academic freedoms, higher education leaders can better prepare their institutions for what may come. At KDM Advisors, we’re dedicated to providing strategic insights and guidance to help higher education leaders navigate the complex landscape ahead. Contact our team for more information on building resilient strategies for your institution.

Kenneth Maher is a principal at KDM Advisors, LLC, which partners with higher education leaders to build long-term sustainable business models that ensure financial stability and faculty/staff engagement. You can reach Ken directly at kmaher@kdmadvisors.com.