Tennessee universities have lost tens of millions in federal research funding following grant terminations by the Trump administration, impacting work on vaccines, infectious disease, mental health, and inclusion in STEM.
The University of Tennessee system reported losing $37.7 million across 42 grants, primarily affecting its Institute of Agriculture. Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) lost around $640,000 from 10 terminated grants. Grant cuts also affected Vanderbilt, TSU, ETSU, and the University of Memphis, though data remains incomplete.
The terminated grants include projects on COVID-19 disparities, active shooter evacuation planning, rural mental health, and programs supporting minorities and students with disabilities in STEM. Nearly 40% of UT’s defunded grants referenced diversity, inclusion, race, or gender.
The cuts follow Trump’s executive orders targeting DEI-related federal spending. Critics warn these actions risk undermining scientific innovation, economic growth, and public health preparedness.
“Science is America’s competitive advantage,” said USC public policy professor Alexandra Graddy-Reed. “Without federal funding, we’re in decline as a society.”
Experts say the cuts could erode U.S. research infrastructure and strain institutions already serving underserved communities. The White House has not commented on its selection process.
Source(s)
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
