University Leadership Under Pressure: UVA President Resigns

University of Virginia President James Ryan announced his resignation following mounting political pressure and federal scrutiny tied to DEI policies. Amid threats of funding loss and Justice Department inquiries, Ryan cited a desire to protect the university’s mission and community as his primary reason for stepping down.

Key Takeaway: Political interference is increasingly shaping campus leadership decisions. Institutions must weigh legal risks and values with clarity and care.

Read more about Ryan’s resignation

Six Public Systems Launch New Accrediting Body

University systems from Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas have announced plans to form their own accreditor: the Commission for Public Higher Education. While many details are still pending, the move signals growing dissatisfaction with traditional accreditation processes, particularly around perceived political bias and slow responsiveness.

Quick Insight: The formation of a new accreditor reflects a desire for state-led quality assurance frameworks in higher ed.

Explore the new accreditation partnership

Senate's Sweeping Higher Ed Bill: What To Watch

The U.S. Senate has introduced a broad policy package touching nearly every corner of higher education—from accreditation and financial aid reforms to campus free speech protections. While the bill’s chances of passing intact are uncertain, its scope signals both bipartisan concerns and increasing federal involvement.

Key Action: Institutions should monitor key proposals, especially those with operational or compliance implications.

See what’s in the Senate bill

Nontraditional Students Now The Majority

A new report confirms that nontraditional students—those who are over 22, working, or attending part-time—now make up the majority of U.S. college enrollees. This demographic shift challenges institutions to rethink course delivery, advising models, and student engagement strategies.

Key Takeaway: Flexible, relevant, and career-focused learning will be essential to meet the expectations of today’s majority learners.

Review the full report

First-Year Persistence Trends Upward, Slowly

First-year persistence rose slightly in 2024–25, with 84% of students returning for their second term. While this marks continued recovery from pandemic-era lows, roughly 1 in 7 students still left higher education altogether between fall and spring.

Quick Insight: Institutions must double down on personalized support and early interventions to keep students on track.

Get the persistence data

Most Beautiful College Campuses, Ranked

In a lighter feature, a new list names 30 of the most beautiful U.S. college campuses based on architectural and natural appeal. While aesthetic doesn’t outweigh academics, a compelling environment can contribute to student pride and recruitment.

Key Takeaway: Campus design matters and it’s often part of the student decision-making experience.

Browse the list