Trump and Harvard’s Pritzker Clash Amid Federal Funding Disputes

Boston, MA — Tensions between President Donald Trump and Harvard University escalated this week as hedge fund CEO Bill Ackman criticized Penny Pritzker, who leads the school’s governing board. The exchange highlights ongoing disputes over academic freedom and $2.2 billion in federal funding.

Pritzker, 66, a Harvard alumna and former commerce secretary under Barack Obama, has faced scrutiny for her leadership since she became president of Harvard Corporation in 2022. At issue is Harvard’s handling of a pro-Palestinian encampment following the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel.

Ackman, the CEO of Pershing Square Capital Management, stated, ‘The mismanagement here… is with Penny Pritzker.’ He called for a change in leadership at the university, reflecting growing concerns over its governance.

Garber, who took office as Harvard’s president in January 2024, described the university’s recent challenges as an ‘extraordinarily painful and disorienting time.’ The administration has made changes to disciplinary and academic policies, but calls for further action persist.

As pressure mounts, Pritzker’s tenure faces critical scrutiny. With a net worth of $4 billion, she is one of the world’s wealthiest women and a powerful figure in Chicago. However, her leadership style has been criticized for being less visible amid increasing calls for accountability.

Pritzker previously stated, ‘We’ve faced relentless scrutiny about every aspect of the University, from stakeholders inside and outside the institution.’ Despite her significant influence and resources, she has remained largely silent on key controversies surrounding the university’s operations.

The federal administration’s recent demands for changes in governance and oversight in exchange for funding have intensified the standoff. On April 14, Harvard publicly rejected Trump’s demands, with Garber emphasizing the university’s commitment to its independence. However, the fallout has resulted in a continued freeze on federal funds.

In response to the controversy, Pritzker recently remarked, ‘I think in general, across the country, people don’t want our federal government running our universities and our colleges,’ highlighting her stance against increased government oversight.

As the situation unfolds, the future of both Pritzker’s leadership and Harvard’s relationship with the Trump administration remains uncertain.