California universities’ core function of providing education remains intact despite questions about the future of higher education under the current federal administration, a panel of education experts affirmed on Tuesday. The panelists on an EdSource roundtable, “The future of California higher education under Trump,” described a barrage of executive actions — banning diversity efforts, withdrawing already budgeted funds, blacklisting colleges, canceling visas of international students and threatening college leaders — actions that Dominique J. Baker, associate professor at the University of Delaware, described as “antagonistic.”
The experts explained that the federal government, particularly the executive branch, has been making moves that could impact the landscape of higher education in California. From funding threats to proposed changes in student loan repayment options and Pell Grants, the panelists highlighted the potential negative effects on low-income and first-generation students. If these changes were to take effect, there could be a significant decrease in enrollment of students from underprivileged backgrounds in higher education institutions.
Panelist Cristian Ulisses Reyes, a master’s candidate at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, shared his personal experience as a Pell Grant recipient and expressed concerns about the uncertainty surrounding funding for students like him. The discussion also touched on the impact of possible cuts in federal funding on programs aimed at supporting Hispanic students in STEM fields at the San Diego Community College District.
Relying on long-standing California policies, the panelists noted that the state has a history of implementing anti-affirmative action measures since the approval of Proposition 209 in 1996. Despite the federal administration’s criticism of diversity programs, California has been able to maintain its commitment to equity and inclusion in higher education. The experts emphasized the importance of transparency and student involvement in decision-making processes at colleges and universities to ensure that the needs of the student population are met effectively. The ongoing political climate in California, especially with upcoming state elections, will play a crucial role in shaping the future of education in the state, regardless of federal policies.
