American universities have quietly dissolved partnerships with organizations dedicated to supporting doctoral candidates from underrepresented racial groups, according to a recent Washington Post investigation. These moves follow sustained political pressure from the Trump administration's 2020-2024 campaign against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in education.
The affected programs previously provided mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities to students of color pursuing advanced degrees. Their dissolution coincides with a 15% year-over-year decline in doctoral program applications from minority groups as of February 2026, according to preliminary data from the National Center for Education Statistics.
While university administrators cite "evolving institutional priorities," critics argue these decisions reflect broader challenges to racial equity in academia. The trend has sparked concern among international education observers, particularly in Asia where U.S. doctoral programs remain a key destination for graduate students.
