Columbia struggles despite $15 billion endowment amid federal funding cuts
- Columbia University has an endowment of approximately $15 billion.
- The Trump administration withheld $400 million in federal funding from the university.
- Alumni are questioning why Columbia didn't refuse the federal demands given its large endowment.
On April 10th, 2025, in the United States, Columbia University faced a significant financial challenge when the Trump administration withheld $400 million in federal funding. Despite holding an impressive endowment of approximately $15 billion, Columbia found itself under pressure to comply with the administration's demands. Alumni expressed disbelief, questioning why the university did not stand firm against the federal government. The situation arises from an ongoing battle between Trump and elite universities in America, where the Ivy League has exhibited a lack of interest in pursuing legal action against the government for funding conflicts. Columbia's predicament highlights complexities surrounding the accessibility of substantial endowments, which are not as liquid as one might assume. Other American elite institutions are observing this scenario closely, contemplating how to navigate potential funding crises while managing their substantial financial assets.