Why No One Can Outshine Trump: Lessons from Harvard’s Historic Struggles

Former President Donald Trump recently made headlines by attending his first Ultimate Fighting Championship event since taking office. His arrival was met with cheers from his supporters, vividly showcasing his ongoing connection to MMA.

Just before the event, Trump stirred the pot with remarks aimed at Harvard University, which is not just the oldest university in the U.S., founded in 1636, but also the richest, with an endowment of around $53 billion—larger than the GDP of 100 countries. His criticisms included aggressive demands for federal oversight of Harvard’s admissions and calls for “viewpoint diversity” in faculty appointments. This term suggested an ideological control over academic hiring practices.

In response, Harvard’s President, Alan Garber, firmly rejected these expectations, asserting that the university would not compromise its independence or rights. This confrontation marks a significant clash between the administration and one of America’s most prestigious institutions, raising the question: what happens when a powerful government takes on academia?

The stakes are high. Harvard recently faced $2.3 billion in frozen federal funds due to Trump’s demands, and further threats loom over its tax-exempt status. While Harvard might weather this storm due to its financial strength, smaller universities could face dire consequences. Reports indicate that the Education Department has put around 60 universities on alert for investigations related to campus issues, with a clear intention to make an example out of one institution.

Ryan Enos, a political scientist at Harvard, describes these actions as authoritarian and a direct attack on academic freedom. Recently, a letter co-authored by Enos and over 800 faculty members urged the university to resist Trump’s demands. Previous actions from the administration, such as forcing out leaders of the Center for Middle Eastern Studies, were seen as serious violations of academic freedom.

As this conflict unfolds, many eyes are on Harvard. It is crucial for them to stand firm against this government intimidation. According to Enos, failing to retain their core values means giving in to pressure, which could set a dangerous precedent for other institutions.

The situation resonates with a broader trend: public confidence in higher education is declining. A Gallup poll shows that trust in U.S. colleges dropped from 57% in 2015 to just 36% in 2024, mirroring the rise in tuition costs, which continue to alienate average Americans. Parents and students alike are grappling with expenses that approach $90,000 annually at elite private universities like Harvard.

Danielle Allen from the Harvard Kennedy School emphasizes the need for higher education to reconnect with the public. She advocates for a “thank you” campaign from universities to acknowledge the support they receive, which could be a step toward rebuilding trust.

Harvard has moved quickly to improve its public image, launching a campaign to highlight its major contributions to society, from advancements in medicine to educational innovations. Their website now prominently features breakthroughs that have made real differences in people’s lives.

Societal engagement isn’t just a backdrop to this struggle; it’s at the forefront. Allen argues for a new social contract that fosters appreciation between universities and the American people. This aligns with the growing calls among educators to not only defend their academic freedom against governmental pressure but to address the significant disconnect that exists between elite institutions and the broader public.

In the face of Trump’s attacks, Harvard’s response will be critical. As the fight continues, it’s evident that the outcome may not just affect Harvard but could shape the future of academic freedom across the nation. If prestigious institutions like Harvard can’t stand strong, it’s a troubling signal for all of higher education in America.

In conclusion, the showdown between Donald Trump and Harvard University serves as a stark reminder of the vital role academics play in maintaining democratic values. It’s a fight not just for one institution’s rights but for the essence of free expression in education and society.



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