
Purdue Named ‘New Ivy’ in Forbes Ranking Amid University Funding Controversies
Purdue University has been recognized as a 'New Ivy' in the latest Forbes ranking, highlighting its status among the top 20 colleges favored by employers in 2025. This accolade comes at a time when universities across the U.S. are facing scrutiny over their funding sources and political affiliations.
Recent reports from The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times have shed light on the increasing influence of lobbyists and political figures, including former President Donald Trump, in university funding. These revelations have sparked a debate on the independence and integrity of higher education institutions.
The Forbes list, titled 'The New Ivies 2025: 20 Great Colleges Employers Love', emphasizes the importance of universities not only in academic excellence but also in preparing students for the workforce. Purdue's inclusion in this list underscores its commitment to both educational quality and employability.
Amid these developments, opinions vary on how universities should respond to political pressures. An op-ed in The New York Times suggests that universities need to fight back against such influences to maintain their autonomy and focus on their primary mission of education and research.