Story perspectives

Trump Administration Forces 31 Universities to Cut Ties

2/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration says its campaign led 31 universities to sever ties with The PhD Project.
The U.S. Department of Education claims The PhD Project unlawfully restricts eligibility based on race, violating Title VI.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon called the move for equality in education.
MIT and the University of North Dakota ended partnerships.
The Education Department is reviewing other partnerships for potential Title VI violations.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration says its campaign led 31 universities to sever ties with The PhD Project.
The U.S. Department of Education claims The PhD Project unlawfully restricts eligibility based on race, violating Title VI.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon called the move for equality in education.
MIT and the University of North Dakota ended partnerships.
The Education Department is reviewing other partnerships for potential Title VI violations.