Some NC college leaders join hundreds in publicly rebuking Trump. It’s a start | Opinion
College presidents across the country are standing up to Donald Trump’s bullying, with hundreds signing onto a statement raising concern about “unprecedented government overreach and political interference now endangering American higher education.”
Among the signatories are the presidents of three North Carolina schools: Duke University, Davidson College and Warren Wilson College. Notably missing, however, are leaders from the UNC System and its constituent institutions. Leaders from other public institutions, including the University of Virginia and UCLA, did sign onto the statement.
It’s good to see some university leaders taking a stand as Trump attempts to assert control over higher education and threatens academic freedom. Students at some N.C. schools have already seen their visas revoked by the Trump administration without explanation. Publicly resisting these attacks — and defending students and faculty — is exactly what leadership ought to look like. Those willing to take a stand have set an example that others must now follow.
So it’s disappointing that the UNC System — the state’s “crown jewel” — has backed away from the fight thus far. Now is not the time for cowardice and capitulation. By remaining silent, they’re playing right into Trump’s hands.
This story was originally published April 22, 2025 at 6:31 PM with the headline "Some NC college leaders join hundreds in publicly rebuking Trump. It’s a start | Opinion."
