National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU)

Last week on Capitol Hill, the Congressional Independent Colleges Caucus (CICC) and the House Rural Caucus convened a briefing highlighting the vital role rural-serving private, nonprofit colleges play as workforce developers and economic anchors in their communities.

The event featured remarks from CICC Co-Chairs Congressman Ben Cline (R-VA) and Congresswoman Deborah Ross (D-NC) and panelists Dr. Matthew Thompson, President of Kansas Wesleyan University, and Dr. Burton Webb, President of the University of Pikeville, who shared how their institutions drive innovation, talent development, and community impact in rural America.

Pictured:
Dr. Matthew Thompson, President, Kansas Wesleyan University
Dr. Burton Webb, President, University of Pikeville
Dr. Allen Smith, Advisor for Strategic Initiatives, Kansas Wesleyan University

Thank you to all who participated in elevating the contributions of rural-serving institutions!

Early bird registration for the NAICU Annual Meeting & Advocacy Day ends this Friday, December 12 — don’t miss out on the discounted rate. If you’re planning to join us, be sure to book your hotel room soon as well. The hotel reservation cutoff is January 8. We’re looking forward to coming together with colleagues from across the country for meaningful conversations, advocacy, and connection. https://www.naicu.edu/events/2026-annual-meeting-advocacy-day/

Education Secretary Linda McMahon indicated Tuesday that she’s planning to take the major next step in fulfilling President Trump’s campaign promise to dismantle the Department of Education.

McMahon Says “Clock Is Ticking” on Education Department Trump officials are reportedly planning to enact a number of agreements Tuesday that could send key ED responsibilities to other agencies.

After court orders, the Trump administration agreed to use emergency reserves to pay for food stamps during the government shutdown. But the funds cover only half of what’s needed. Campuses are trying to fill in the gaps for students in need.

Trump Partially Funds SNAP as Colleges Scramble to Feed Students

After court orders, the Trump administration agreed to use emergency reserves to pay for food stamps during the government shutdown. But the funds cover only half of what’s needed. Campuses are trying to fill in the gaps for needy students. https://bit.ly/47CkEht

Talks over which graduate programs qualify for more loans resume next week. The Education Department and higher ed negotiators remain far apart on the best solution. Learn more from Inside Higher Ed: https://www.naicu.edu/news-events/headline-news/2025/10/searching-for-compromise-on-student-loan-caps/

Federal officials are reportedly considering selling parts of the federal student loan portfolio to private firms, a move that could impact how loans are managed and the protections borrowers receive. Read more from Inside Higher Ed: https://www.insidehighered.com/news/quick-takes/2025/10/08/trump-officials-reportedly-discussing-selling-student-loans.

Trump Officials Reportedly Discussing Selling Student Loans The Trump administration is weighing whether to sell off parts of the federal student loan portfolio, Politico reported, reviving an idea from the first time Trump was in office.

A new federal proposal the, “Compact for Academic Excellence," is prompting significant discussion across higher education about its potential implications for institutional governance, autonomy, and accountability. Learn more: https://www.naicu.edu/news-events/headline-news/2025/10/higher-ed-sounds-off-on-proposed-compact/.

Higher Ed Sounds Off on Proposed Compact

The sector has overwhelmingly panned Trump’s plan to give preferential treatment to universities that commit to his policies. So have some conservative leaders. https://bit.ly/4o50aV8

Big change in Higher Ed: Grad PLUS loans are ending — starting in July 2026, new graduate and professional students will face tighter borrowing caps. What does this mean? Learn more: https://naicu.edu/news-events/headline-news/2025/09/what-does-the-end-of-grad-plus-loans-mean-for-higher-ed/ via
Higher Ed Dive

Today is ! Colleges & universities receiving federal funding are required to commemorate it each year with an educational program. It’s a chance to reflect on the 1787 signing & spark conversations about democracy, rights, and civic responsibility. Learn more: https://www.naicu.edu/policy-advocacy/your-vote-your-voice/resources/.

Today is National Voter Registration Day!

Since 2012, campuses across the country have used this day to highlight the importance of civic participation.

Learn more: https://www.naicu.edu/policy-advocacy/your-vote-your-voice/resources/.

This week brings two important civic milestones for campuses nationwide:

-National Voter Registration Day – September 16
-Constitution Day – September 17 (federally mandated)

Both are opportunities to engage students in civic learning and participation. Learn more: https://www.naicu.edu/policy-advocacy/your-vote-your-voice/.

NAICU - Your Vote Your Voice Voter registration deadlines listed here are for guidance only.  Remember to allow extra time for mailing.Check with your state agency for specific dates and application process.