Federal Funding Under Scrutiny: A Closer Look at the Impact on Prestigious Universities

People walk through the gate on Harvard Yard at the Harvard University campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Scott Eisen/Getty Images
Significant sums of money are at stake for some of the nation’s most prestigious academic institutions. The University of Pennsylvania, Columbia University, and Harvard University are among those facing potential cuts in federal funding.
The Trump administration recently announced an $8.7 billion review of federal grants and contracts awarded to Harvard University, citing concerns over the institution’s efforts to address antisemitism on campus. This review is part of broader scrutiny that could lead to withholding hundreds of millions in government support.
Critics argue that these measures form part of a larger campaign against higher education. The repercussions of these financial cuts could extend well beyond the universities themselves, affecting a wide range of educational and research activities.
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This episode was produced by Elena Burnett and edited by Courtney Dorning. Our executive producer is Sami Yenigun.