45 top US universities face federal probes over ties to controversial nonprofit amid DEI crackdown – The Times of India

Forty-five prominent US universities are now under federal investigation over their affiliations with The PhD Project, a nonprofit focused on diversifying business faculty and leaders. This investigation, launched by the US Education Department, is part of a broader campaign by the Trump administration to examine diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in higher education.
The inquiry has left many university leaders both startled and confused, as they scramble to understand the reasons behind the investigations. The probe follows heightened scrutiny of diversity programs across the country, particularly those with ties to The PhD Project, which has been active in helping Black and Latino students pursue business degrees.
Federal investigation targets 45 universities
The US Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights has sent letters to these institutions, warning them of investigations related to alleged racial discrimination. The investigation targets schools over their past partnerships with The PhD Project, which some critics now associate with “race-based preferences” in admissions and student life. As reported by the Associated Press, the investigation is primarily concerned with whether these universities engaged in racial discrimination through their involvement with the nonprofit.
Prominent institutions such as Arizona State, Ohio State, University of California, Berkeley, Yale, Cornell, Duke, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are among the 45 universities under scrutiny. These schools have been given until March 31, 2025, to provide information about their past dealings with the nonprofit.
Universities pull away from The PhD Project
In response to the investigation, several universities have already severed ties with The PhD Project. As quoted by the Associated Press, the University of Kentucky announced it would no longer work with the nonprofit. Similarly, the University of Wyoming stated that while its business college had collaborated with the group in the past, it would no longer continue its affiliation.
This trend was also noted in Texas, where universities withdrew from the nonprofit’s conference following public criticism by conservative strategist Christopher Rufo. Rufo, who has been vocal in opposing DEI programs, had previously criticized Texas A&M’s participation, calling it “racial segregation” in violation of the law.
A chilling climate in higher education
The investigations have sparked widespread concern among university officials, with many expressing fear of losing federal funding. As reported by the Associated Press, Veena Dubal, general counsel for the American Association of University Professors, noted that universities are hesitant to challenge the administration, as none want to become the next example of severe funding cuts. This climate of fear is reshaping how US colleges approach diversity initiatives, leaving many to tread cautiously.