Higher Ed Under Pressure: Federal Shutdown Disrupts Colleges Nationwide

Federal Shutdown’s Growing Impact On Higher Ed 

The U.S. federal government shutdown entered its fourth week, and institutions across higher education are starting to feel mounting financial and operational pain. For example, Georgia Institute of Technology is cutting expenses, the University of Hawai‘i system is drawing down $20 million every two weeks to pay federally-funded workers, and a New Jersey community college reports its solar-training program is now in jeopardy. The shutdown disrupts not only grant approvals and federal research contracts but also creates cash-flow and operational risks for institutions that budget on normal appropriations cycles. 
Key Takeaway: Institutions must urgently review their dependencies on federal funding and develop contingency plans to ensure stability amid extended federal budget impasses.

States’ Funding Approaches For Community-College Dual Enrollment

A new CCRC blog outlines how states channel funds for dual enrollment at community colleges and highlights the major diversity in mechanisms. Some use formula-based funding (more predictable for colleges), while others use grants or categorical funds (less predictable). Some states pass funding through K–12 districts, which may create bottlenecks or discourage institutions from offering outreach, advising or rigorous instructional support. The taxonomy developed shows how funding design affects colleges’ ability to build dual enrollment as a genuine on-ramp to postsecondary credentials, rather than simply add credits. 
Quick Insight: The structure of state dual-enrollment funding matters significantly. Colleges and administrators should examine how their state’s model affects program quality, access, and institutional sustainability.

Public Confidence In Higher Education: A Cautious Rebound

Survey data show a slight uptick in public confidence in higher education for the first time in a decade, with gains across political affiliations and demographic groups. Experts caution that this uptick doesn’t mean the sector has restored full trust. Much of the work ahead involves proving the value, relevance, and affordability of postsecondary education. Institutions must shift focus from just measuring enrollment or credentials to demonstrating real outcomes and value for learners and society.
Key Insight: While public sentiment is improving, higher-ed leaders should treat this as a starting point for rebuilding trust, focusing on value, transparency, and alignment with workforce and equity goals.

Enrollment Growth At A Community College During Challenging Times

Hudson County Community College reported a 7.9 % year-over-year enrollment increase for Fall 2025, with a total headcount of 8,211, the highest since 2019. Notably, continuing students’ full-time enrollment rose by 10.4%, and new student headcount increased by 2.9%. The college credits success to data-driven initiatives including proactive advising, credit for prior learning, strong summer sessions, and targeted outreach to “some college, no degree” learners.
Takeaway: HCCC’s strategies underline how community colleges can leverage targeted supports, data tracking and adult learner re-engagement to buck national enrollment trends.

Published: October 24, 2025