Christian College Faces Massive Fine from Biden
Phoenix-based Grand Canyon University (GCU) is facing the largest fine in the history of the U.S. Department of Education, with regulators imposing a staggering $37.7 million penalty on the "private, Christian, and affordable" school. This fine, which is ten times the amount levied on schools that covered up the crimes of notorious sex offenders, is the latest assault in the Biden administration's efforts to purge institutions that do not align with its ideology.
Despite its success story, with a blossoming student body and a diverse range of degree programs, GCU has been on the receiving end of the Department of Education's ire since Massachusetts Democrat Sen. Elizabeth Warren's ally, Richard Cordray, took the helm. With a mission to dismantle institutions that do not conform to the prevailing orthodoxy in government-run schools, the department has targeted GCU for its disruptive impact on higher education and its ongoing dispute over its nonprofit status.
In November, GCU was hit with the massive fine for allegedly violating federal disclosure laws by not adequately informing PhD students about the possibility of taking continuing courses while completing their doctoral dissertations. However, the department's own press release makes larger claims, asserting that "GCU lied about the cost of its doctoral programs." These claims, which have not been substantiated and have not been accompanied by any student complaints, seem more like a pretextual attempt to punish the university for its success.
The persecution continues
Grand Canyon University targeted by woke Biden admin for an unprecedented $37.7 million finehttps://t.co/BWM3ngiEJY— The Conservative M. D. ️ (@WarriorsForAll) December 11, 2023
The Goldwater Institute, where the authors of this article work, has requested records related to the department's actions against GCU. If the agency refuses to disclose this information, legal action will be taken to compel transparency. Meanwhile, GCU is being praised for standing up to the federal government and continuing to provide high-quality education at an affordable cost.
The actions of GCU speak for themselves, with the university finding innovative solutions to address nationwide issues like the nursing shortage and providing students with training for in-demand trade jobs. Its Division I athletics program and thriving campus life further demonstrate its commitment to holistic education. Additionally, GCU stands out for its efforts to serve and uplift the surrounding community, which has seen significant improvements due to the university's presence.
While public universities across the country have increased tuition costs for students by an average of over 150% in the past two decades, despite receiving taxpayer subsidies, GCU has kept its tuition rates affordable for students. However, the current Department of Education seems more interested in enforcing ideological conformity than supporting successful and cost-effective education for students.
As GCU continues to fight back against the unmerited and unprecedented fine, it remains committed to its mission of providing high-quality education that is accessible and affordable for students of all backgrounds. The outcome of this battle will not only impact GCU but also set a precedent for other institutions that may be targeted by the government.