Brown University has joined MIT in rejecting a proposal from Donald Trump that aimed to overhaul university policies in exchange for preferential federal funding. This decision is significant as it underscores the institutions' commitment to academic freedom and independence from political influence, highlighting the ongoing debate about the role of government in higher education.

Brown University has turned down an offer from the Trump administration that would have granted the institution priority access to funding. The university cited concerns over academic freedom, emphasizing the importance of maintaining independence in its educational mission. This decision highlights the ongoing tension between government influence and institutional autonomy, raising questions about the implications for universities across the country.