University of Arizona Declines Trump Administration's Higher Education Compact

The University of Arizona has declined to sign the Trump administration's Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education, citing concerns over academic freedom and institutional autonomy. The compact proposed linking federal funding to universities' compliance with specific policy directives, including restrictions on diversity hiring, caps on international student enrollment, and tuition freezes.

In a letter to Education Secretary Linda McMahon, University President Suresh Garimella emphasized the institution's commitment to academic freedom and merit-based research funding. "The University of Arizona steadfastly believes in a merit-based pursuit of excellence in fulfilling its mission of education, research, and engagement, with a vibrant marketplace of ideas and perspectives and equal treatment of all," Garimella wrote.

The decision follows weeks of campus discussions and public debate. Earlier this month, the Faculty Senate voted to oppose the compact, and on October 17, hundreds of students, faculty, and alumni gathered at Old Main to call on the university to reject the proposal.

The University of Arizona is among nine institutions invited to provide feedback on the compact. Others include Brown University, the University of Pennsylvania, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and the University of Southern California—all of which have declined to sign.

The university's Statement of Principles outlines its stance on issues ranging from student learning and equal treatment to freedom of expression and fiscal responsibility. It pledges that the University of Arizona "shall continue to hold success for every student as its North Star" and "maintains its commitment to academic freedom, which undergirds the right of faculty to teach free from unreasonable or arbitrary restrictions."

The Arizona Board of Regents, the university's governing body, reviewed and endorsed the institution's position before submission. The University of Arizona will continue engaging with federal and state leaders, as well as peer institutions, to advance reforms that "benefit students, protect academic freedom, and strengthen the country's higher education system," Garimella stated.

This response contributes to a national conversation about the future relationship between universities and the federal government.