On June 9, 2025, AACRAO joined 27 other higher education associations in an amicus brief in support of Harvard University’s motion for summary judgment. AACRAO joined the amicus brief based on the belief that the current administration's actions represent government overreach and threaten not just Harvard’s autonomy but possibly the autonomy of all higher education institutions.
Furthermore, the administration's freeze of over $2.2 billion in federal research funding and attempts to bar Harvard from enrolling international students are unprecedented actions by an administration against an institution of higher education.
No president should have the power to weaponize federal funding to coerce colleges and universities into surrendering their constitutionally protected rights to free speech and due process. The attack on one higher education institution endangers the independence of all American colleges and universities and their ability to pursue knowledge, foster intellectual diversity, and maintain the academic freedom essential to a thriving democracy.
Sincerely,
Melanie Gottlieb
Executive Director, AACRAO