Which college is signing Trump’s compact?
New College of Florida has indicated it will be the first university to sign the Trump administration’s higher education (HE) compact. The agreement is designed to encourage institutions to adopt a range of policy changes, with potential financial benefits for those that comply. Officials at New College stated they are already following many provisions in the proposed compact.The college highlighted its ongoing efforts to eliminate what it described as discrimination in admissions, including diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programmes. It also emphasised its commitment to keeping tuition and fees low and upholding free speech on campus.New College already aligns with compact requirementsRichard Corcoran, president of New College, told the Inside Higher Ed that “New College of Florida is committed to the ideals present within this compact, and we have already been instituting them for the past two and a half years.” He added that “a student’s success comes from their character and their merit, not their race, gender, or sexual orientation,” as quoted by the Inside Higher Ed.The college has seen significant changes since Florida governor Ron DeSantis appointed six conservative members to its board over two years ago. These members oversaw cuts to the gender studies programme, removed LGBTQ+ materials from the library, and hired administrators aligned with conservative perspectives. Officials said these reforms positioned the college to adopt the Trump HE compact with minimal adjustments.Other universities respond cautiouslyInitially, the Trump administration sent the proposal to nine universities for feedback. While New College is signalling support, 11 institutions have rejected the plan, citing concerns over autonomy and institutional independence. The compact carries potential financial consequences if universities do not comply.The administration has not clarified how universities can formally sign the agreement. A revised draft of the compact is expected to be circulated next month, though details have not been released. Jamie Miller, vice president of communications and chief marketing officer at New College, told the Inside Higher Ed, “When the president asks, we’ll be first in line.”Next steps for higher educationIt remains unclear how other universities will respond to the Trump HE compact. The White House has not commented on New College’s plans. Higher education leaders continue to weigh the potential benefits and risks of signing the agreement, while New College positions itself as a pioneering institution for the initiative.
