A passionate group of UNC students and staff took a stand against the Trump administration’s controversial “Compact for Academic Excellence.” This proposed agreement, which aims to reshape higher education, has sparked a nationwide debate.
The Core Issue:
The compact demands universities abandon diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, embrace political neutrality, and make significant changes to their operations in exchange for preferential federal funding.
But here’s where it gets controversial…
UNC Chancellor Lee Roberts made a bold statement, refusing to sign the compact “as written.” He acknowledged that while some parts align with UNC’s existing practices, others would be challenging or even impossible to implement.
The compact’s requirements include banning DEI in hiring and admissions, freezing tuition, capping international student enrollment, curbing criticism of conservative ideals, and preventing student protests.
A Historical Context:
In May 2024, the UNC System Board of Governors voted to replace its DEI policy, leading to the elimination of diversity-related positions and programs across the state’s universities.
The Controversy Deepens:
The Trump administration initially sent the proposal to nine universities, but now any college can sign on. Kiersten Hackman, a UNC sophomore, wanted her university to take a preemptive stand against the compact. She pointed out that other universities not initially targeted have also rejected the compact.
More than a dozen schools, including Brown University, Dartmouth, and MIT, have declined to sign.
And this is the part most people miss…
Hackman and her fellow protesters are not just asking UNC to reject the compact; they’re calling for the university to actively support students and stand against policies that undermine DEI efforts.
The Bigger Picture:
UNC System schools implemented the “Equality Policy” last year, but leaders on the Board of Governors want proof that these changes have been successful.
This story raises important questions: Should universities compromise their values for funding? How can we balance the need for academic excellence with the pursuit of equity and inclusion?
What’s your take on this issue? Share your thoughts in the comments!