Universities Cut Ties with Discriminatory Organizations

At least 31 universities have ended their partnerships with groups targeted by the Trump administration for alleged racial discrimination in doctoral programs. The Department of Education (ED) initiated an inquiry into 45 universities in March 2025, questioning their ties to “The Ph.D. Project,” which was accused of establishing eligibility based on race. Yale, New York University, MIT, the University of Michigan, and over 25 other institutions have agreed to the department’s resolution to terminate their connections with the program. Investigations into the remaining 14 universities are set to continue until Thursday.

Education Secretary Linda McMahon remarked, “This is the Trump effect at work. Higher education institutions are choosing to cut ties with discriminatory organizations, comply with federal law, and reaffirm their commitment to equal opportunity on campuses nationwide.” She expressed hope that other universities with similar practices would follow, aiming for a future where people are not judged by their skin color but by their merit and achievements.

McMahon previously indicated that the intention behind the investigation was to ensure that students are assessed based on their merits rather than racial backgrounds.

In February 2025, the ED sent a letter highlighting that universities are legally bound to civil rights laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, or national origin, warning of potential loss of federal funding for continued violations. Although the court later deemed this letter “legally flawed,” the ED’s investigation initially stemmed from it. Nevertheless, the inquiry continued under civil rights laws which combat racial discrimination.