Universities Cut Ties with Nonprofit Amid White House Pressure

The Trump administration's initiative to dismantle diversity programs in higher education has led 31 universities to discontinue their partnerships with The PhD Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting racial minorities in pursuing doctoral degrees.

This investigation, which began in March 2025, stems from claims that such programs unfairly favor certain racial groups. The Department of Education asserts that The PhD Project unlawfully restricts participation based on race, violating Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Education Secretary Linda McMahon stated, "This is the Trump effect in action: institutions of higher education are agreeing to cut ties with discriminatory organizations, recommitting themselves to abiding by federal law, and restoring equality of opportunity on campuses across the nation." Many universities acted swiftly to avoid potential repercussions, including loss of federal funding.

The PhD Project, which aims to increase representation in academia, reported that it has successfully helped over 1,500 individuals earn doctoral degrees. However, the group's partnerships were scrutinized as the administration targeted practices labeled as promoting inequality.

Major institutions such as Arizona State, Ohio State, and the University of Michigan, along with prestigious schools like Yale and MIT, were among those that severed ties. MIT, for instance, had been participating in The PhD Project's fairs and conferences but opted to withdraw amidst the investigation.

As a result of the scrutiny, the Education Department has directed all 31 universities to reassess their collaborations with other organizations that may also violate Title VI by limiting participation based on race. This significant shift highlights the administration's broader agenda concerning diversity, equity, and inclusion in educational practices.