October 30, 2025

Which college is joining Trump HE compact? New College of Florida is making waves by stepping up as the first university ready to sign the Trump administration’s new higher education (HE) compact. This compact is a bundle of policy changes that promises some financial bonuses for schools that follow its rules. New College says it’s already on board with many of these ideas and feels proud to lead the way. The college pointed out its strong efforts to fight what it calls discrimination in admissions, especially focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. They also promise to keep college fees low and protect free speech on campus – a combo that’s sure to catch attention. Richard Corcoran, New College’s president, shared with Inside Higher Ed, “New College of Florida is committed to the ideals present within this compact, and we have already been instituting them for the past two and a half years.” He added a bold statement: “A student’s success comes from their character and their merit, not their race, gender, or sexual orientation.” Big changes have already swept through New College since Florida Governor Ron DeSantis appointed six conservative board members over two years ago. These new leaders cut the gender studies program, removed LGBTQ+ library materials, and brought in conservative-minded staff. According to college officials, these moves made it easy to line up with the Trump HE compact without needing many more changes. But not everyone is excited. While New College speeds ahead, 11 other universities have said a firm “no” to the compact, worrying about losing their independence. The Trump administration hasn’t yet explained how schools can officially sign the deal. A fresh version of the compact might come next month, but no details are out yet. Jamie Miller, New College’s vice president of communications, told Inside Higher Ed, “When the president asks, we’ll be first in line.” For now, the future of this compact hangs in the balance. Other universities are thinking carefully about the risks and rewards, while New College stands out as the bold pioneer ready to shake up higher education with this controversial new path.

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Tags: New college of florida, Trump he compact, Higher education, Tuition fees, Diversity concerns, Free speech,