Michael Roth, president of Wesleyan University, expressed concerns regarding a proposal from the Trump administration that threatens to revoke tax-exempt status from private schools and colleges. This proposal targets institutions that provide benefits based on race.

Roth stated that Wesleyan University does not intend to alter its programs in response to this proposal. He criticized the administration’s move, suggesting it might force universities to dismantle programs benefiting students of color.

This rule from the administration is meant to frighten universities into dismantling programs that benefit students of color. It’s using the IRS to promote the ideology of the White House, and it’s extraordinary overreach on their part. – Michael Roth

The Trump administration claims that race-based benefits are discriminatory, even if their aim is to enhance diversity or rectify past discrimination effects. It advocates for programs focusing on race-neutral criteria, such as income and first-generation status.

The legality of the IRS using its power to redefine racial discrimination and revoke tax-exempt status remains uncertain. Legal challenges might delay or prevent the proposal’s implementation.

Wesleyan does not offer race-limited programs, as Roth mentioned. It supports first-generation and low-income students, many of whom are students of color at the Connecticut university.

Roth highlighted the severe financial impact losing tax-exempt status would have on Wesleyan. He noted that institutions might modify or eliminate programs preemptively to dodge costly legal disputes.

That’s what’s happening right now in America: anticipatory compliance. People are changing their programs because they don’t want to get into the legal battle, which costs millions of dollars. – Michael Roth

The Treasury Department and IRS estimate up to 18,000 private schools and other educational entities might be affected by this proposal. If it becomes finalized, the rule would commence in May 2027.

The interview with Roth was featured on NPR’s Morning Edition with Steve Inskeep. The digital version was produced by Majd Al-Waheidi and edited by Treye Green.