This week’s top story examines the Education Department’s surprise move to redirect millions in congressional student success funds into a new competitive grant program, creating uncertainty for colleges counting on Basic Needs, Rural Postsecondary, and Veteran Success funding. We also cover major shifts in accreditation, new IPEDS reporting rules, and the latest data on first-generation students and campus engagement. Higher ed leaders will find strategic insights to guide planning for 2025 and beyond.
Monday Musings
The Clock Is Ticking On Digital Access: Will Campuses Be Ready By 2026?
The federal clock is winding down on digital accessibility compliance, and many colleges are scrambling to catch up. This week’s edition highlights what institutions must do now to meet 2026 requirements, plus insights on the surge in non-degree credentials, support for military-connected students, student wellbeing, and shifting federal funding for mental health.
Supporting Students When Systems Fail: Higher Ed Steps Up for Veterans
A VA system failure has delayed education benefits for tens of thousands of veterans and their families, forcing colleges to step in with emergency aid and support. This week’s Monday Musings highlights how institutions are responding — plus key stories on federal policy shifts, re-engaging adult learners, and compliance trends shaping higher ed.
When Washington Stops, Campuses Feel The Strain
As the federal government shutdown stretches into a fourth week, its ripple effects are disrupting colleges’ research, payroll, and financial stability. This week’s newsletter examines how campuses are coping — plus how states fund dual enrollment, shifts in public confidence in higher ed, and one community college’s surprising enrollment growth.
Autonomy Under Pressure: Higher Ed Pushes Back
This week, MIT’s decision to reject a proposed federal compact tying funding to policy compliance has set off national debate about the future of institutional autonomy. Plus, we cover major developments on MSI funding cuts, admissions transparency battles, AI tools for student wellness, and the growing link between dual enrollment and CTE programs.
A federal funding deal that could cost colleges their independence
The federal administration’s proposed “Compact for Academic Excellence” could reshape higher education by tying federal funding to new political conditions. College leaders warn that the plan threatens shared governance and academic freedom, forcing institutions to choose between financial support and autonomy. This week’s edition unpacks the implications — plus key stories on international enrollment, AI in transfer credit, and student success trends.
