Trump Admin Targets Columbia University Accreditation, Says University Violated ‘Federal Antidiscrimination Laws’

Trump Administration Targets Accreditation of Columbia University, Alleging Violation of Federal Antidiscrimination Laws
The Trump administration has accused Columbia University of not meeting accreditation requirements, stating that the university is “in breach of federal antidiscrimination laws.” According to a press statement from the Department of Education, the Department’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has informed the Middle States Commission on Higher Education that Columbia University did not meet the accreditation standards set by the Commission. As a result, the Department is obligated to promptly share any noncompliance findings with accreditors related to member institutions.
The Department of Education’s press release stated that Columbia University’s failure to comply with federal antidiscrimination laws means it does not meet the accreditation standards set by the Commission. Following OCR’s decision, Columbia University is no longer considered to meet the Commission’s accreditation requirements.

Secretary of Education Linda McMahon criticized Columbia University for its handling of the harassment of Jewish students on campus following a terror attack by Hamas on Israel. McMahon emphasized the importance of accreditors in ensuring institutions adhere to laws and regulations and determine eligibility for federal student aid. The Trump administration had previously announced the cancellation of around $400 million in grants and contracts to the university, prompting Columbia University to make policy changes related to protesting, discipline, and the authority of campus police officers to make arrests.
McMahon stressed the need for Columbia University to comply with the required standards in order to regain the $400 million in funding that was revoked.