DEI & Health Policy Shifts Test Student Support

1. The Devil’s In The Data: Columbia’s Deal May Reshape Admissions Oversight

Columbia University’s agreement with the Trump administration includes three years of audits and detailed disclosures on admissions data for both accepted and rejected applicants—broken down by race, GPA, and test scores. This move follows the SFFA v. Harvard ruling and may set a precedent for expanded federal scrutiny of selective admissions practices across higher education.

Key Takeaway: Expect more aggressive demands for data transparency in future admissions policies, especially from federal agencies.

2. Justice Department Declares DEI Practices Unlawful

A new DOJ memo declares a wide range of DEI strategies “unlawful,” including race-neutral proxies like place-based recruitment, identity-based student programs, and cultural competence hiring. The department warns institutions that noncompliance could threaten federal funding. Higher-ed leaders argue this guidance undermines academic freedom and complicates post-affirmative action planning.

Quick Insight: Campuses must reassess DEI efforts immediately to avoid compliance risks while staying true to their equity goals.

3. Trump Administration Releases Frozen Adult & Migrant Ed Funds

The administration has released over $5 billion, including $716 million for adult education and $375 million for migrant services, after delaying scheduled July 1 grants. This offers short-term relief to community colleges. However, the FY 2026 budget proposal still seeks to eliminate these programs, leaving long-term stability in question.

Key Action: Use this window to stabilize programming and prepare for continued advocacy as funding remains on the chopping block.

4. Executive Order Targets College Athletics & NIL Regulation

President Trump’s executive order mandates that schools above certain revenue thresholds maintain scholarships in non-revenue and women’s sports, addresses athlete employment status, and pushes back on pay-for-play practices. These new federal expectations intersect with existing NIL policies and could reshape how athletic departments allocate funds and define athlete rights.

Quick Insight: Athletics leaders should prepare for compliance reviews and evolving NIL frameworks under increased federal involvement.

5. Medicaid Work Requirements Threaten Student Coverage

New or expanded Medicaid work requirements—now tied to federal budget restructuring—may disrupt healthcare access for millions, including students who rely on Medicaid for basic care. The article highlights procedural burdens, coverage churn, and risks to persistence for low-income students already navigating affordability challenges.

Key Takeaway: Colleges should scale up healthcare navigation and student advocacy as policy shifts threaten core support systems.

Published: July 31, 2025