State Department Proposes Suspension of 38 Universities from Federal Research Programs
The State Department is considering suspending 38 universities, including prominent institutions like Harvard, Yale, and Stanford, from federal research collaboration programs. This move is tied to their ongoing participation in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
A memo dated November 17th indicated that the department is specifically reviewing schools that actively engage in DEI hiring practices or uphold DEI-related goals for applicants. Institutions in this category may face exclusion from the Diplomacy Lab program, starting January 1, 2026.
Some of the other universities at risk of suspension include Johns Hopkins University, Duke University, and the University of Southern California. It seems that, if the suspensions take effect, other institutions like Liberty University and Brigham Young University, among others in Missouri and Texas, will take their places in the program.
The Diplomacy Lab, established in 2013, is described as a public-private partnership between the State Department and more than sixty U.S. academic institutions, which includes community colleges and minority-serving institutions. Through this program, academic teams conduct research on various themes prioritized by the State Department.
Since taking office in January, President Trump has been critical of DEI policies within the federal government, signifying that universities may face funding cuts if they persist with these programs. A State Department spokesperson mentioned that the administration is clear about its stance on DEI, reviewing all programs to ensure they align with the President’s objectives.
Fox News Digital has reached out for comments from the universities involved, including Harvard, Yale, and others like George Washington University and the University of California.
