PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Brown University President Christina H. Paxson has formally rejected the Trump administration’s proposed “Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education,” saying it would compromise the university’s academic freedom and governance.
In a letter to the White House made public on Wednesday, October 15, Paxson announced that Brown has “declined the invitation” to join the compact, which would have linked preferential access to federal funds with new government-imposed criteria on universities.
“The Compact by its nature would restrict academic freedom and undermine the autonomy of Brown’s governance, critically compromising our ability to fulfill our mission,” Paxson wrote.
She further noted that research funding must be awarded based on merit, not political or ideological considerations.
“Funding research on criteria other than soundness and likely impact,” she warned, “would ultimately damage the health and prosperity of Americans.”
According to Paxson, Brown was among nine colleges and universities — including two other Ivy League institutions — invited to join the compact.
In a message to the Brown community on October 15, Paxson said her decision reflected the views of the vast majority of Brown stakeholders and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to independent scholarship and open dialogue.
“I remain dedicated to participating in dialogue anchored in these values,” she added, emphasizing that Brown will continue discussions on improving American higher education — but without compromising its principles.
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