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Provosts, regents raise concerns about federal funding uncertainty and student immigration fears
Summary
Multiple campus leaders told the committee that recent federal-level changes and uncertainty are disrupting grants, Title IV approvals and student participation, and system offices are organizing town halls and support for affected students.
Provosts from across Connecticut’s public higher-education system told the Board of Regents Committee on Academic and Student Affairs that federal-level uncertainty is affecting grants, Title IV program approvals, financial aid distribution and student participation.
"I personally have lost millions of dollars of grants," Provost Shadrach Farrar said, describing recent cancellations and agency changes. Other provosts reported delayed U.S. Department of Education approvals for Title IV eligibility and described families and students expressing concern about whether financial aid funds will be released.
Several provosts said undocumented and mixed-status students are avoiding campus events and in-person advising out of fear. One system leader summarized steps underway: biweekly cross-campus working groups supporting undocumented students, virtual appointments and targeted outreach, and system town halls led by general counsel and compliance staff to guide campus practice.
Provosts said the system is also tracking ripple effects on K–12 funding and workforce pipelines. One participant noted potential reductions to Title I funding that could reduce services to K–12 students; campus leaders warned those cuts would have multi-year effects on special education staffing and on preparation pipelines for teacher education programs.
Campus leaders asked for stable, clear communication and said they will continue to monitor regulatory changes and share guidance with faculty, staff and families. The chancellor’s office and legal staff have scheduled town halls for campuses to answer compliance questions, the committee was told.
