As 2023 comes to a close, the University of Pennsylvania braces for heightened political scrutiny as former President Donald Trump prepares for his anticipated return to office. The evolving political landscape, as well as the university’s recent controversies, may lead to increased challenges for Penn, especially with Trump’s critics in powerful positions.
Since December, investigations conducted by Congress and federal authorities have cast a critical eye on the university’s operations. A landmark inquiry by the Republican-led House Committee on Education and the Workforce culminated on October 31, concluding a year-long investigation into Penn’s handling of alleged antisemitic incidents, disciplinary measures, former President Liz Magill’s resignation, and campus protests. This extensive inquiry resulted in a 325-page report detailing the events.
Additionally, in January, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights initiated its own examination of Penn’s legacy admissions practices. The scrutiny facing the university is compounded by Project 2025, an extensive policy outline from the conservative Heritage Foundation. This document proposes significant changes to federal funding for higher education and seeks to alter aspects of university pedagogy.
While the exact actions that Trump or a Republican-majority Congress might take remain uncertain, concerns are mounting regarding potential impacts on federal funding and support for universities like Penn. Notably, Trump’s connections to the Heritage Foundation and its goals could suggest an agenda aimed at reshaping higher education.
University officials are preparing for these challenges. Eric Feldman, Chair of the Faculty Senate, indicated that longstanding issues in higher education are likely to intensify, prompting the Faculty Senate to organize panels to address these topics. Additionally, Vice President of Government Affairs Jeffrey Cooper expressed concerns about the shifting terrain under Trump’s presidency, highlighting the potential for significant shifts in tax policy, immigration laws, and research funding.
At a December rally, Trump threatened to revoke tax advantages and funding for universities, specifically targeting Penn for alleged attacks on free speech. In response to the changing political environment, Penn advised international students to return to the U.S. before the inauguration in January to avoid unexpected issues related to new policies.
The complexities of this situation call for a resilient approach as Penn navigates political pressures while continuing its commitment to education and engagement.
This situation poses an opportunity not just for Penn to assert its educational values but also for a broader dialogue around the role of higher education in society. As the university faces these challenges, its leadership and community may emerge stronger, advocating for the importance of education as a foundational pillar of democracy.
Summary: As Donald Trump prepares for his second term, the University of Pennsylvania faces increased political scrutiny, particularly concerning its handling of alleged antisemitism and admissions policies. Investigations and proposals aimed at reshaping higher education funding signal a challenging future, but the university is striving to maintain its commitment to education and adapt to the shifting political landscape.