WASHINGTON, DC (April 16, 2025)—The Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB) has released its Top Public Policy Issues Facing Governing Boards 2025–2026 report, which provides a comprehensive analysis of the most pressing policy, legal, and financial concerns facing higher education governing boards at the state and federal levels. As institutions navigate a dramatically shifting political, regulatory, and fiscal landscape, this report serves as a critical resource to help boards make informed decisions that uphold academic integrity, financial sustainability, and institutional autonomy.
“The stakes for higher education governance have never been higher,” said Ross Mugler, AGB board chair and acting president and CEO. “From federal funding cuts and regulatory overhauls to political challenges and legal battles over various issues, today’s governing boards must be more proactive and strategic than ever before. This report arms trustees with the insights needed to uphold their fiduciary duties and steer institutions toward a sustainable future.”
Key Themes of the Report:
- Federal and State Funding Challenges
- Cuts to federal research funding will impact some institutions’ budgets.
- The future of student financial aid programs, including Pell Grants and FAFSA implementation, remains uncertain.
- Political Challenges for Institutional Governance
- State and federal legislative actions on academic freedom; diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs; and free speech are reshaping campus policies.
- Efforts to limit governing board independence and increase legislative oversight of curricula raise concerns for higher education leaders.
- Judicial and Regulatory Uncertainty
- Courts are weighing major legal challenges to Title IX policies, DEI initiatives, and student debt relief programs.
- The impact of Supreme Court decisions on race-conscious admissions and accreditation oversight is still unfolding.
- Intercollegiate Athletics and Financial Realities
- NCAA antitrust settlements and evolving name, image, and likeness (NIL) policies are redefining financial obligations for athletic programs.
- Congressional efforts to regulate athlete compensation and employment status could reshape collegiate sports.
- International and Immigration Policy Shifts
- Potential visa restrictions and mass deportation policies could disrupt international student enrollments and faculty hiring.
- Campus leaders must prepare for new compliance challenges related to global research collaborations.
“Governing boards have a critical role to play in ensuring that their institutions emerge stronger, more adaptable, and committed to their core educational values and must be prepared to confront policy shifts head-on,” Mugler said. “This report provides the essential knowledge trustees need to make informed, strategic decisions that preserve institutional missions, ensure financial sustainability, and promote student success.”
Download the Full Report
Top Public Policy Issues Facing Governing Boards 2025–2026 is available for download HERE.
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At the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB), we believe in the power of higher education to transform lives, strengthen inclusive democracy, and support a thriving society. We believe that strong higher education starts with great governing boards. AGB provides advocacy, leading practices, educational resources, expert support, and renowned programs that advance board excellence for 40,000 AGB members from more than 2,000 institutions and foundations. For more than 100 years, AGB has been the trusted authority for board members, chief executives, board professionals, and key administrators on higher education governance and leadership. Learn more at AGB.org.