The Trump administration is attempting a new strategy to encourage colleges to embrace its agenda, following the failure of a more ambitious "compact" proposal last year. Education Secretary Linda McMahon sent an open letter to university leaders, signaling a shift in approach.

The previous attempt, a "compact," aimed to offer research money as an incentive for institutions to align with the administration's priorities. However, this initiative did not gain traction with colleges.

The new, less formal approach via an open letter suggests the administration is recalibrating its efforts to engage with higher education. Details of the agenda outlined in the letter and the specific goals of this outreach remain to be seen, but the move indicates a continued desire for collaboration.

This development comes after a period of tension and differing priorities between the administration and many academic institutions. The administration's focus on certain policy areas and its engagement with universities have been closely watched, particularly given the potential impact on research funding and academic freedom.