Under the commendable watch of the Trump administration’s Department of Education, relief was provided to the nation’s premier Christian institution, which had been unfairly burdened with a massive $37.7 million fine. This absurd penalty was initially slapped on Grand Canyon University back in 2023 by the Biden administration under the false pretense of the university allegedly misguiding doctoral students about their program expenses.
This swift and unjust action was followed by then Education Secretary Miguel Cardona openly discrediting the university. Cardona pompously declared his intentions of not merely shutting them down, but aiming to deter others that might ‘prey on students.’ Clearly, his bountiful hubris led him to erroneously target GCU; a statement more reflective of Cardona’s misguided approach than anything else.
At this time, Brian Mueller, the President of GCU, rightfully dismissed the claims as ‘ridiculous.’ He emphasized his institution’s integrity, displaying their commitment to elevate themselves beyond this unjust predicament, rooting their response in Scriptural obedience and service. Mueller’s sharp criticism notes the main issues arose from a seemingly small, yet influential group in Washington, D.C.
Interestingly, this controversial situation had strong overtones of selective religious persecution. This unjustified bias became strikingly evident when Liberty University, recognized as the second-largest Christian university in America, was also targeted with an uncannily similar fine of $37 million. Coincidence? One can’t help but raise an eyebrow.
Indeed, Mueller underscored the curious timing in one of his speeches, sparking debate with his thought-provoking question, ‘Isn’t it intriguing that the two leading Christian universities in the country are being fined nearly identical amounts at virtually the same time?’ The question raises unsettling implications about the Biden administration’s approach.
Following an arduous two-year series of legal challenges, thankfully, saner heads prevailed under the Trump administration’s Department of Education. They announced a welcomed rescission of the $37.7 million fine against GCU, thereby exonerating the university from the unfounded allegation.
According to the university’s official press release, there were ‘no findings against GCU, or any of its employees, officers, agents, or contractors, and no fine is imposed.’ The announcement puts into stark relief the vindictiveness of the prior and baseless charges.
This bold decision by the Trump administration has been correctly recognized as both an academic and a political triumph, displaying a contrasting approach that lends support to religious institutions instead of unjustly persecuting them. It foregrounds a sharper distinction in policies between the Trump and Biden administrations.
The Trump Department of Education spokesperson, Ellen Keast, voiced this decisive stance, stating, ‘Unlike the previous administration, we will not target and prosecute colleges and universities because of their religious affiliations. The Trump administration will ensure every institution of higher education is held accountable based on facts, not bias.’
Keast’s words reflect a broad commitment to fairness and impartiality by the Trump administration, especially concerning regulatory oversight. Faith-based institutions, which were unfairly singled out under the earlier policies, can now breathe a sigh of relief.
The ensuing wave of widespread praise from Christian higher education advocates illustrates the importance of this decision. Justice has been rightfully served while debunking the baseless claims initially leveled against Grand Canyon University.
The affirmation of GCU’s stand against these erroneous accusations certainly serves as an encouraging sign for all who value Christian higher education. The decision is a clear indicator that truth and justice can ultimately prevail.
In this regard, the reversal of this substantial fine not only liberates Grand Canyon University from a significant financial burden but also upholds its unwavering commitment to faith, integrity, and dedication to its students.
To conclude, the unjust accusations and specious fine imposed on Grand Canyon University under the Biden administration, only to be rightly dismissed by the subsequent Trump administration, is a clear narrative about their distinctive approaches towards religious institutions. It is a testament to the unrelenting spirit of GCU and a symbolic victory for faith-based institutions across the country.