Trump Nominates Nicholas Kent for ED Under Secretary
By Hugh T. Ferguson, NASFAA Managing Editor
According to recent documents obtained by Inside Higher Ed, President Donald Trump has nominated Nicholas Kent to serve as the Department of Education (ED) under secretary, a role that went unfilled during the president’s first term.
Kent most recently served as Virginia’s deputy secretary of education. Previously, he served as chief policy officer at Career Education Colleges and Universities, the trade association representing for-profit colleges, and was the inaugural president of the CECU Research Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that “advances the work of the proprietary sector of higher education” and works to promote evidence-based research to improve higher education.
“The Under Secretary of Education plays a pivotal role in shaping the policies that guide our nation’s colleges and universities,” said Beth Maglione, NASFAA’s Interim President and CEO. “We’re eager to collaborate with Mr. Kent and others at ED to champion student access and success, ensuring that every qualified student—regardless of their socioeconomic background—has the opportunity to achieve their postsecondary aspirations.”
Kent’s appointment will require Senate approval. His nomination will likely be considered after Linda McMahon‘s nomination hearing for her nomination as secretary of education on Thursday, February 13.
Stay Tuned to Today’s News for more details on the incoming staffing and policies from Trump’s Department of Education team.
Publication Date: 2/13/2025
Gabriela G | 2/13/2025 1:6:33 PM
The clown show continues.
Jesse H | 2/13/2025 9:44:02 AM
I mean, at least his prior work experience wasn't "president of World Wrestling Entertainment for 20 years" or something bizarre like that. That would be ridiculous! Hahaha... ha... ha.
Jeff A | 2/13/2025 9:11:01 AM
He will be a good choice for students and holding institutions to higher standards.
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