Northwestern University has reached a $75 million settlement with the Trump administration, leading to the restoration of federal funding that had been frozen during a discrimination investigation. The Justice Department announced the agreement on Friday.
Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that the settlement aligns with the administration's efforts to ensure educational institutions protect Jewish students and prioritize merit. Bondi added that institutions receiving federal funds are obligated to adhere to civil rights law.
Northwestern was among 60 colleges investigated by the Education Department. These investigations focused on alleged failures to protect Jewish students on campus, including ensuring access to facilities and educational opportunities, particularly amidst university protests concerning the conflict in Gaza. In April, the White House had withheld approximately $790 million in federal funds from Northwestern during the investigation.
University interim President Henry Bienen, in a statement to university personnel, clarified that the payment does not constitute an admission of guilt, as reported by The Daily Northwestern.
Earlier in the month, Cornell University also finalized an agreement, paying $60 million to unfreeze $250 million in federal funds withheld due to alleged civil rights violations. Cornell stated that its settlement did not compromise its values or independence.
Under the terms of the agreement, Northwestern will disburse the $75 million by 2028. The university is also required to maintain clear policies and procedures regarding demonstrations, protests, displays, and other expressive activities. Additionally, it must implement mandatory antisemitism training for all students, faculty, and staff, according to the DOJ.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon described the settlement as beneficial for higher education. She noted that the agreement formalizes policy changes intended to protect students and campus members from harassment and discrimination, and it reinforces the university's commitment to merit-based hiring and admissions. McMahon suggested these reforms could serve as a model for other institutions nationwide.
An explainer on Northwestern's website indicated that the university chose to negotiate a settlement due to the perceived high cost and risks associated with potential litigation.
President Bienen confirmed in a video statement that the university would maintain its academic freedom and autonomy from the federal government. He emphasized that Northwestern's leadership refused to accept terms that would grant the federal government authority over hiring, curriculum, admissions, or study programs, asserting, "Northwestern runs Northwestern."