Brown University Denies Trump Administration Compact
Brown University has officially turned down the Trump administration’s tuition compact, as announced by President Christina Paxson. In a letter dispatched to the Brown community, Paxson outlined her concerns regarding the compact’s implications for academic freedom and governance autonomy.
Details of the Trump Administration’s Compact
Sent to Brown on October 1, the compact included several stipulations:
- Freeze tuition for five years.
- Limit grade inflation.
- Cap international undergraduate enrollment at 15%.
In exchange for compliance, the university would receive financial assistance and other unspecified benefits. Brown became the second institution, after the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, to formally reject the agreement.
Concerns Raised by President Paxson
In her letter, sent to Education Secretary Linda McMahon and White House officials, Paxson expressed that various provisions of the compact would undermine academic freedom. She noted that the agreement did not uphold the autonomy necessary for the university’s mission.
Paxson emphasized the importance of merit-based research funding, arguing that basing funding decisions on criteria outside the quality and potential impact of the research could harm both the university and the nation’s well-being.
Faculty Support for Rejection
Prior to Paxson’s decision, the Faculty Executive Committee sent her a letter advocating against the compact. This sentiment was echoed during a faculty town hall, where members expressed a clear desire for the university to refuse the agreement.
Community Engagement
In the week leading up to her announcement, Paxson sought input from the broader Brown community. She emphasized the need for a collective decision regarding the university’s response to the compact.
The situation remains dynamic, and further updates are expected as developments occur.
