Government

Eric Lander, who was nominated to lead the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, faced tough questions from senators about sexism and his ties to Jeffrey Epstein during his confirmation hearing.

President Biden's proposal to invest $62 billion in student success represents a shift in federal higher education policy.

Reactions in higher education to President Biden's proposal for tuition-free community college, increased Pell Grants and tuition aid for students at minority-serving institutions have been largely positive, but the plan won't be easy to get through Congress.

President Biden wants $109 billion for two-year colleges, $80 billion addition for Pell Grants, $62 billion for retention and completion efforts, and $39 billion for two free years at minority-serving institutions for most students.

The slow confirmation of presidential appointees could delay actions by the Biden administration on higher education issues.

A recent report found that the state of Tennessee owes between $150 million and $544 million in land-grant funds to Tennessee State University. Lawmakers have known about the underfunding for decades.

A bill intended to close the data gaps on student outcomes in higher education is widely supported, though some are hesitant about how it handles personal information.

Rather than expanding opportunities, opening up Pell Grants to short-term job training could put workers at greater risk, argue Daniel Bustillo and Amy Laitinen.