Northwestern University has agreed to pay $75 million to the U.S. government as part of a settlement with the Trump administration. This agreement puts an end to a series of investigations that led to the suspension of over $790 million in federal research grants, substantially affecting the university and resulting in staff layoffs.
In September, the institution's president Michael Schill stepped down amidst growing local and national tensions surrounding university conduct, particularly accusations of inadequate measures against antisemitism. The Trump administration justified the funding cuts by asserting that educational institutions needed to do more to address these issues.
According to the terms of the settlement announced on Friday, Northwestern will remit the funds over the next three years. The university will also annul the controversial Deering Meadow agreement, made in April 2024 to resolve the protests initiated by pro-Palestinian student groups.
Under the deal, interim president Henry Bienen emphasized that the university maintains autonomy regarding its hiring practices, admissions procedures, and curriculum development, stating, “I would not have signed this agreement without provisions ensuring that is the case.”
The settlement outlines expectations for the university to continue adhering to federal anti-discrimination laws and develop educational materials that help international students assimilate to an environment that values open discourse. Additionally, it underscores a commitment to Title IX compliance, particularly concerning women's safety and equitable access to facilities.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon remarked that the deal establishes important reforms aimed at safeguarding students against discrimination and harassment. She affirmed the settlement as a significant victory for institutional integrity, potentially serving as a framework for other universities striving to restore public trust.
This settlement with Northwestern is the second largest of its kind, following Columbia University's $200 million agreement. Other institutions like Brown and Cornell have also finalized deals with the government under similar pressures. Meanwhile, Harvard remains embroiled in disputes over federal funding, asserting that the administration’s tactics amount to discriminatory practices.
