Defending Access: University Responses to the Erosion of Federal Support for Diverse Student Populations

In 2025, President Donald Trump's administration introduced significant budget reductions affecting postsecondary education, particularly impacting vulnerable student populations such as former foster youth and students with disabilities. These cuts, coupled with structural changes to federal education oversight, have raised concerns among educators and advocates. (Kiplinger - Will Trump's Education Dept. Order Hurt Scholarships and Key Tax Breaks?) 

Key Budgetary Changes The administration's budget proposal includes a 40% reduction in federal rental assistance programs, effectively ending initiatives like Section 8 housing vouchers. While $25 million is allocated for housing grants targeting young individuals aging out of foster care, the broader cuts to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) threaten the stability of many students who rely on such support. (NPR - Trump budget would slash rental aid by 40% — and let states fill the gap if they want) 

Concurrently, the Department of Education faces substantial downsizing. An executive order signed by President Trump aims to dismantle the department, transferring responsibilities such as student loans and special needs programs to other agencies . This move includes halving the department's workforce, notably affecting the Federal Student Aid office and the Office for Civil Rights. 

Implications for Vulnerable Students The proposed changes pose significant risks to students with disabilities and those from foster care backgrounds. The restructuring of HUD's rental assistance into state-controlled block grants may lead to inconsistent support, potentially increasing homelessness among students. 

The downsizing of the Department of Education raises concerns about the continuity of services for students with disabilities. The transfer of special needs programs to the Department of Health and Human Services lacks clarity on implementation, potentially disrupting Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and other essential services . (The Sacramento Bee - Federal funding cuts threaten California students’ educational opportunities) 

Recommendations for University Stakeholders In response to these developments, university employees, leadership, and administrators can take proactive steps:

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1. Advocacy and Policy Engagement: Engage with policymakers to express concerns about the impact of budget cuts on vulnerable student populations. 

2. Resource Allocation: Prioritize funding for support services that assist students affected by housing instability and disabilities.

3. Community Partnerships: Collaborate with local organizations to provide housing, counseling, and academic support for at-risk students. 

4. Information Dissemination: Ensure students are informed about changes to federal aid programs and available institutional resources. 

5. Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish systems to monitor the effects of policy changes on student outcomes, allowing for timely interventions. 

6. Legislative Outreach and Coalition Building: Proactively reach out to state and federal representatives to advocate against harmful education cuts, emphasizing the specific needs of former foster youth and students with disabilities. Universities can strengthen their advocacy by forming coalitions with peer institutions and community stakeholders to amplify their voice and push for equitable funding policies. ​​

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By adopting these strategies, universities can mitigate the adverse effects of federal budget cuts and continue to support the success of all students, particularly those most at risk.