Workforce development has become the driving force behind some of the nation's most significant education reforms. One major higher ed initiative beginning July 1 is accelerating the trend.

Trump administration plans to tighten oversight of federal research funding by appointing officials to review new and existing grants, higher ed organizations contend.

Republicans are pushing for more control over the day-to-day work at colleges and universities. Democrats, meanwhile, broadly support higher education, praising it for its role in improving people’s lives.

Christopher L. Augostini takes the helm at Emory University while Tufts Provost Caroline Attardo Genco becomes the first female president at the University at Buffalo.