For those of us invested in the future of higher education, the past few years have been anything but predictable. From shifting federal policies to mounting student loan concerns, institutions are navigating a landscape that’s constantly evolving.
That’s why gathering in Washington, D.C., for CSPEN’s 7th Annual Higher Education Policy Meeting (February 11-13, 2025) was more than just another industry event—it was a critical checkpoint. This year’s discussions weren’t about abstract policy debates; they were about real changes, real challenges, and real consequences for students, educators, and institutions alike.
As we reflect on the meeting’s key takeaways, one thing is clear: higher education is at a crossroads, and the decisions made today will shape its future for years to come.
The Key Themes That Will Shape the Future of Higher Education
1. Title IX and Anti-Hazing Policies: A Non-Negotiable Compliance Shift
James Moore from the U.S. Department of Education made it clear: the latest Title IX regulations and new anti-hazing laws demand immediate action from institutions. Regardless of size, structure, or affiliation, every school must implement the necessary policies and procedures to comply. With heightened scrutiny on compliance failures, institutions that delay risk more than just fines—they risk student trust.
2. The Quiet but Powerful Shift in Regulatory Oversight
Higher education has seen its share of policy reversals with each new administration, but this year’s meeting signaled something different. Acting Undersecretary of Education James Bergeron emphasized that the Department is undertaking a comprehensive review of sub-regulatory guidance issued in recent years.
For institutions, this means two things:
- Some past policies may be reversed or rewritten, affecting everything from funding structures to reporting requirements.
- Schools must stay vigilant and proactive rather than waiting for clarity to come from the top.
3. The Future of the Department of Education: A Political Debate, Not a Funding Crisis
Rumors about the potential elimination of the Department of Education continue to surface, leading to confusion among students and stakeholders. Here’s the reality:
- The Title IV funding that powers financial aid programs is enshrined in law under the 1965 Higher Education Act.
- The Department of Education itself wasn’t even established until 1979.
- Even if the department were dissolved, Title IV funding wouldn’t automatically disappear.
The lesson? Students and institutions should focus on legislative actions rather than political rhetoric.
4. The College Cost Reduction Act: One Bill, Two Very Different Visions
As Congress works on the College Cost Reduction Act (CCRA), it has become clear that the House and Senate have very different views on how to hold institutions accountable:
- The House version introduces a risk-sharing model, meaning institutions could be penalized or rewarded based on performance metrics.
- The Senate version takes a pass/fail approach, using an earnings test to determine if institutions remain eligible for Title IV aid.
With such stark differences, it remains uncertain whether a compromise will emerge—or if the bill will stall altogether. For colleges, understanding these proposals is essential to planning for the future.
5. The Student Loan Repayment Cliff: Institutions Must Step Up
With $8 billion in forbearance and 67% of borrowers expected to resume payments in early 2025, the biggest question facing higher education isn’t whether student loan defaults will rise—it’s how much.
For institutions, this is no longer just a policy issue. Schools that fail to actively support students through loan counseling and repayment strategies will face rising cohort default rates, which could have long-term consequences on funding and reputation.
6. A New Chapter for Proprietary Schools?
One of the more promising takeaways from this year’s meeting was the growing optimism among proprietary institutions. Compared to previous years, CSPEN members feel more included in policy discussions and see a renewed opportunity to influence regulatory frameworks.
While challenges remain, there’s a sense that the sector is being heard in a way it hasn’t been in years.
7. Preparing for Trump Administration 2.0?
Acting Deputy Under Secretary James Bergeron also offered some interesting observations about the new Trump administration:
- The administration appears better prepared to act quickly on policy changes as compared to the previous Trump administration.
- Key appointments, including Linda McMahon’s, are still pending, leaving some uncertainty.
Regardless of political shifts, institutions must focus on what they can control: compliance, student success, and financial planning.
Looking Ahead: A Call to Action from CSPEN’s Co-Executive Director
“This year’s meeting demonstrated just how fluid the future of higher education is and how integral a part of the “renaissance” taking place our community is," said Tom Netting, Co-Executive Director of CSPEN. “As we navigate these rapidly changing times, it’s crucial that we continue to develop and promote policies that benefit our students, the institutions that provide them with the education they need to engage in the workforce, and the employers who hire them to fill the demand for skilled labor."
Tom also emphasized several key priorities for institutions in the coming year:
- Stay Informed: The first three weeks have been a rush of Presidential Executive Orders, Administrative guidance, and projections for what is yet to come. CSPEN is committed to providing the community with timely, accurate and sourced information to assist the community in staying abreast of this truly dynamic period in higher education.
- Engage: Either become or remain actively involved with your State and Federal organizations as we all work collectively to monitor, influence, and implement revisions to State and Federal legislative and regulatory policy revisions.
- Be Patient: The new Administration and Congress need some time to fully assess the most productive method of addressing the myriad of legislative and regulatory policy issues of concern to all of the higher education community, as well as more nuanced concerns of the community. You have to admit the list of concerns is long, give them some time to prioritize and work through the recommendations. CSPNE assures you that they are fully aware of our priorities and recommendations.
- Prioritize Student Success: With repayment resuming, helping students manage their loans is as important as enrollment efforts.
Final Thoughts: A Defining Year for Higher Education
As attendees left Washington, one thing was clear: higher education is entering a period of transformation. The decisions made in the next 12 months—from regulatory shifts to financial aid reforms—will shape the future of colleges, students, and the broader education ecosystem.
For the CSPEN community and beyond, the key question remains: Will institutions lead the change, or will they react to it?
As we move forward, staying engaged, informed, and proactive will make all the difference.
