Columbia University announced on Wednesday that it has reached a settlement with the Trump administration, agreeing to pay $221 million and reinstate federal funding previously removed due to an investigation into alleged anti-Semitism on campus.
The settlement stipulates that the university will pay $200 million to the federal government spread out over three years, alongside $21 million to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
University President Claire Shipman commented, saying, “This contract signifies major progress following a prolonged period of federal oversight and institutional instability.” She emphasized that the settlement was designed to uphold the institution’s core values and to re-establish an essential research collaboration with the federal government.
The interim president noted that this agreement would help the university maintain its academic independence, especially after the loss of $400 million in grants earlier in the year.
A judge had previously dismissed a suit brought by Colombian teachers, determining that only educational institutions could pursue litigation to recover the funds.
Board co-chairs David Greenwald and Jeh Johnson expressed that the long-standing research collaboration with the federal government is vital for advancing key scientific, technological, and medical developments in the country. They voiced pride in contributing to public service and preparing future generations to tackle complex global challenges.
In a post on True Social, President Trump celebrated the settlement, stating, “It’s a great honor to be involved. I want to thank and congratulate Secretary Linda McMahon and all involved in this important agreement.” He lauded Columbia University for doing “the right thing.”
Trump also cautioned that other institutions might face similar actions aimed at dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. He remarked that Columbia committed to abandoning its DEI policies, focusing on merit-based evaluations and safeguarding the civil liberties of students.
He added that his administration is in talks with more higher education institutions that he believes are causing harm and misusing federal funds.
