APLU Statement on Elimination of U.S. Department of Education Program Funding for Minority Serving Institutions

Washington, DC – Association of Public and Land-grant Universities President Waded Cruzado today released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Education announced it was ceasing funding for certain programs at Minority Serving Institutions.

“The U.S. Department of Education’s decision to eliminate funding allocated for a set of Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) across the United States is very concerning.  This action will negatively impact millions of students who have made these colleges and universities their destination of choice. These educational institutions play a critical role in building a stronger America by preparing the next generation of leaders – educating students, conducting impactful research, and serving their communities and the nation.  

“Congress approved this funding in Title III and Title V of the Higher Education Act for the purpose of supporting students at the full range of MSIs. If the Department of Education wants to pursue legislative reforms to redesign higher education programs for MSIs, it should work through a transparent process with Congress, with ample participation from stakeholders.  

“Further, if the Department of Education believes that funding for these MSI programs is inconsistent with the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Students for Fair Admission, it should allow the courts to make that determination. Pulling the funding that these students rely on harms our shared priorities of advancing a globally competitive workforce.”