Department of Education Investigates University of Pennsylvania for Foreign Funding Reporting Failures
The Department of Education initiated an investigation on Thursday regarding the University of Pennsylvania’s (UPenn) alleged inaccuracies in reporting foreign funds received. This prestigious Ivy League institution has come under scrutiny for a history of “inaccurate and incomplete” foreign funding disclosures. The department is now seeking public records from universities, focusing on UPenn’s tax documents, all foreign gifts, grants, and contracts since 2017, along with its policies for compliance with federal disclosure laws.
UPenn reportedly has a concerning compliance history under Section 117, having failed to disclose foreign funds until February 2019. Previous administrations had decreased departmental enforcement regarding universities’ obligations to report foreign gifts and contracts, but the Trump administration has pledged to ensure transparency in these matters.
The investigation also aims to gather information about staff involved in collaborative research with foreign organizations and individuals managing foreign government recruitment programs. It’s essential for higher education institutions to report donations exceeding $250,000 from foreign sources, as required by law.
The Trump administration has emphasized the importance of eliminating foreign influence in U.S. schools, famously culminating in a Presidential Order signed in April. This order aimed for greater transparency regarding universities’ foreign ties and mandated compliance with existing foreign financial reporting regulations. Several universities, including Harvard — which has reportedly accepted around $1.1 billion from foreign entities since 2017 — are also under review for potential discrepancies in reporting.
Previously, UPenn faced conflicts with Department of Education officials over its policy allowing men to participate on women’s sports teams. The administration’s stance has included warnings to schools regarding possible federal funding implications for Title IX violations.
UPenn had not provided an immediate response to requests for comment from the Daily Caller News Foundation.
The Office of the General Counsel has committed to a thorough investigation, emphasizing that universities must not obscure any foreign influences on American campuses. Additionally, this investigation coincides with Congressional efforts to restrict Department of Homeland Security funding to universities with ties to Chinese government-supported organizations.
