U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, addressed key issues in higher education during a recent hearing. His remarks highlighted concerns about the current state of higher education in the United States.
Cassidy stated that "the American higher education system has lost its purpose," noting that many college students are not acquiring skills necessary for success in today's workforce. He pointed out that tuition and fees at private non-profit colleges have increased by 80 percent over the past 30 years, while public four-year institutions have seen a rise of 109 percent. According to Cassidy, "23 percent of bachelor’s degree programs and 43 percent of master’s degrees have a negative return on investment."
The senator criticized the allocation of funds towards promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) ideologies rather than improving educational quality. He cited a report indicating that an average institution employs around 45 staff members dedicated to DEI policies.
Cassidy emphasized the need for comprehensive reform in higher education. He acknowledged efforts by President Trump and Secretary McMahon to address student loan issues but called for congressional action to create lasting change.
Several legislative efforts were mentioned during his speech. These include Cassidy's bipartisan College Transparency Act with Senator Warren, which aims to help students evaluate prospective colleges' value; Senator Tuberville's Graduate Opportunity and Affordable Loans (GOAL) Act intended to limit graduate school borrowing; and Senator Cornyn's Streamlining Accountability and Value in Education (SAVE) for Students Act aimed at simplifying repayment options for student loans.
Cassidy stressed the transformative power of education but warned against universities failing their responsibilities: "when universities fail...the American people lose trust in higher ed." He urged institutions to demonstrate their value to taxpayers.
The hearing included representatives from Taylor University, Tuskegee University, and Austin Community College District sharing insights on their contributions to higher education.
Harvard University was invited but declined participation following reports on antisemitism within its culture. Cassidy remarked this would have been an opportunity for Harvard "to tell the Committee and the country how it is addressing antisemitism" among other issues.
Senator Sanders followed with his opening statement after Cassidy concluded his remarks.
