CECU In The News:
Education Department Will Tap Secret Shoppers – March 15, 2023
“However, the federal government has a track record of using secret-shopper investigations to malign politically unfavored institutions with distorted findings that later result in the need for public correction,” Kent said. “Given the current administration’s animus toward for-profit institutions, we are concerned this self-proclaimed ‘tool’ will be used as a weapon to inflict further damage upon private career schools and limit student choice.”
“However, the federal government has a track record of using secret-shopper investigations to malign politically unfavored institutions with distorted findings that later result in the need for public correction,” Kent said. “Given the current administration’s animus toward for-profit institutions, we are concerned this self-proclaimed ‘tool’ will be used as a weapon to inflict further damage upon private career schools and limit student choice.”
Colleges Claim Student Loan Forgiveness Hurt Reputation – March 10, 2023
However, Nicholas Kent, the head policy officer at Career Education Colleges and Universities, a trade organization that represents for-profit colleges, told the Examiner that he expects that ruling to be overturned on appeal. "We feel that the 9th Circuit [Court of Appeals] will also strike down the settlement at the circuit level. The court's argument is, in part, Well, you already got the money, and the department is saying that they can't go after you because of the settlement.
However, Nicholas Kent, the head policy officer at Career Education Colleges and Universities, a trade organization that represents for-profit colleges, told the Examiner that he expects that ruling to be overturned on appeal. "We feel that the 9th Circuit [Court of Appeals] will also strike down the settlement at the circuit level. The court's argument is, in part, Well, you already got the money, and the department is saying that they can't go after you because of the settlement.
New guidance from the Department of Education will hold “risky” for-profit college leaders responsible for unpaid federal debt – March 10, 2023
Nicholas Kent, CECU’s chief policy officer, gave a statement last week about the Education Department’s decision to hold college executives and stakeholders personally responsible for student debt. He claimed that the Biden administration is exceeding its legal authority and “dismantling private career schools while limiting students’ ability to choose the educational setting that best fits their life circumstances.”
Nicholas Kent, CECU’s chief policy officer, gave a statement last week about the Education Department’s decision to hold college executives and stakeholders personally responsible for student debt. He claimed that the Biden administration is exceeding its legal authority and “dismantling private career schools while limiting students’ ability to choose the educational setting that best fits their life circumstances.”
Quiet Biden student loan forgiveness for 200,000 borrowers gave black eye to colleges - March 10, 2023
Despite Alsup's ruling rejecting a stay on discharging loans, Nicholas Kent, the chief policy officer for Career Education Colleges and Universities, told the Washington Examiner that he expects the judge's ruling to be appealed to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals and ultimately be overturned. "We feel that the 9th Circuit will also strike down the settlement at the circuit level," Kent said. "The court's argument is, in part, 'well, you already got the money, and the department is saying that they can't go after you because of the settlement.' But there's huge reputational harm that has been done as a result of being labeled a wrongdoer on that list. The school didn't get any due process to raise their hand and say, 'Listen, this isn't true.'"
Despite Alsup's ruling rejecting a stay on discharging loans, Nicholas Kent, the chief policy officer for Career Education Colleges and Universities, told the Washington Examiner that he expects the judge's ruling to be appealed to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals and ultimately be overturned. "We feel that the 9th Circuit will also strike down the settlement at the circuit level," Kent said. "The court's argument is, in part, 'well, you already got the money, and the department is saying that they can't go after you because of the settlement.' But there's huge reputational harm that has been done as a result of being labeled a wrongdoer on that list. The school didn't get any due process to raise their hand and say, 'Listen, this isn't true.'"
NextEra adds another outside firm - March 3, 2023
Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit schools, kicks off its annual fly-in next week as well to fight against the exclusion of students at for-profit colleges from short-term Pell Grant proposals. The association has more than 100 meetings scheduled on the Hill, including with Sens. Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Reps. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.), Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.), Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio), Aaron Bean (R-Fla.), Bill Johnson (R-Ohio), Mike Kelly (R-Pa.), Scott Peters (D-Calif.), and Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas).
Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit schools, kicks off its annual fly-in next week as well to fight against the exclusion of students at for-profit colleges from short-term Pell Grant proposals. The association has more than 100 meetings scheduled on the Hill, including with Sens. Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Reps. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.), Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.), Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio), Aaron Bean (R-Fla.), Bill Johnson (R-Ohio), Mike Kelly (R-Pa.), Scott Peters (D-Calif.), and Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas).
Holding Executives Responsible – March 3, 2023
“This administration proposes to exceed this authority through new regulations and subjective guidance, thereby empowering ideologically driven partisans with the unfettered discretion needed to achieve their goal of dismantling private career schools while limiting students’ ability to choose the educational setting that best fits their life circumstances.”
“This administration proposes to exceed this authority through new regulations and subjective guidance, thereby empowering ideologically driven partisans with the unfettered discretion needed to achieve their goal of dismantling private career schools while limiting students’ ability to choose the educational setting that best fits their life circumstances.”
Education Department shares plans to make for-profit executives responsible for colleges’ liabilities – March 2, 2023
A group representing for-profit colleges, Career Education Colleges and Universities, objected to the moves this week. The Higher Education Act limits the Education Department’s authority to pierce the corporate veil and lay financial responsibility on individuals, said Nicholas Kent, chief policy officer at CECU, in a statement.
A group representing for-profit colleges, Career Education Colleges and Universities, objected to the moves this week. The Higher Education Act limits the Education Department’s authority to pierce the corporate veil and lay financial responsibility on individuals, said Nicholas Kent, chief policy officer at CECU, in a statement.
Texas trade association suing to stop new borrower defense rule because it ‘all but ensures’ claims will be approved – February 28, 2023
“CECU has led the sector’s response to these unlawful regulations because they irrationally expand the potential acts and omissions of schools that give rise to a borrower defense to loan repayment, while eliminating the procedural protections necessary to protect schools against erroneous loan discharges and presumptions of liability,” CECU president and CEO Jason Altmire said in a statement.
“CECU has led the sector’s response to these unlawful regulations because they irrationally expand the potential acts and omissions of schools that give rise to a borrower defense to loan repayment, while eliminating the procedural protections necessary to protect schools against erroneous loan discharges and presumptions of liability,” CECU president and CEO Jason Altmire said in a statement.
Texas For-Profit Colleges Fight New Borrower-Defense Rules – February 28, 2023
Career Education Colleges and Universities, the national association representing for-profit institutions, supports the lawsuit. It has led a campaign in recent months about the borrower-defense rule’s “devastating impact” and advocated for the department to withdraw the rule, according to a news release.
Career Education Colleges and Universities, the national association representing for-profit institutions, supports the lawsuit. It has led a campaign in recent months about the borrower-defense rule’s “devastating impact” and advocated for the department to withdraw the rule, according to a news release.
For-profit colleges sue to stop Cardona’s easier path for debt relief for defrauded students – February 28, 2023
Jason Altmire, who leads Career Education Colleges and Universities, which supports the Texas group’s lawsuit, said in a statement that the Biden administration’s rule “suffers from fatal due process deficiencies and threatens crippling liability for schools across the country.”
Jason Altmire, who leads Career Education Colleges and Universities, which supports the Texas group’s lawsuit, said in a statement that the Biden administration’s rule “suffers from fatal due process deficiencies and threatens crippling liability for schools across the country.”
Judge clears path for most Sweet v. Cardona loan cancellation to move forward – February 27, 2023
“Although we appreciate the court’s continued acknowledgment that these are not adjudicated borrower defense claims, we remain concerned the settlement deprives the affected institutions of due process protections afforded under the Department’s own rules and inflicts reputational harm,” Nicholas Kent, CECU’s chief policy officer, said in a statement.
“Although we appreciate the court’s continued acknowledgment that these are not adjudicated borrower defense claims, we remain concerned the settlement deprives the affected institutions of due process protections afforded under the Department’s own rules and inflicts reputational harm,” Nicholas Kent, CECU’s chief policy officer, said in a statement.
What Advocates Want in the Education Department’s List of Low-Value College Programs – February 22, 2023
Career Education Colleges and Universities (CECU), which represents for-profit institutions, wrote in its comments that no matter how ED disseminates this information, it should give institutions a chance to challenge data before it becomes public. This would allow schools to correct any "erroneous data," CECU states. Read CECU's comments here.
Career Education Colleges and Universities (CECU), which represents for-profit institutions, wrote in its comments that no matter how ED disseminates this information, it should give institutions a chance to challenge data before it becomes public. This would allow schools to correct any "erroneous data," CECU states. Read CECU's comments here.
Battle Lines Drawn in Fight Over List - February 14, 2023
Higher education groups are generally opposed to the Biden administration’s plan to create a list of low-financial-value programs, but some think tanks and for-profit colleges like the idea. “Having two different sets of standards to assess economic value for the same program is illogical and would create unnecessary confusion for students, institutions, and taxpayers,” wrote Jason Altmire, president of Career Education Colleges and Universities, an organization representing for-profit institutions.
Higher education groups are generally opposed to the Biden administration’s plan to create a list of low-financial-value programs, but some think tanks and for-profit colleges like the idea. “Having two different sets of standards to assess economic value for the same program is illogical and would create unnecessary confusion for students, institutions, and taxpayers,” wrote Jason Altmire, president of Career Education Colleges and Universities, an organization representing for-profit institutions.
Are for-profit colleges worth the cost? Graduates are split on the value of their degrees – January 31, 2023
Jason Altmire, head of the for-profit university trade group Career Education Colleges and Universities, said for-profit institutions cater to adult students. “What we have always argued on the for-profit side is we provide that off-ramp for people who have tried other settings that haven't worked out,” said Altmire, a former Democrat in the House from Pennsylvania. “If they work hard, we can get them their degree quickly.”
Jason Altmire, head of the for-profit university trade group Career Education Colleges and Universities, said for-profit institutions cater to adult students. “What we have always argued on the for-profit side is we provide that off-ramp for people who have tried other settings that haven't worked out,” said Altmire, a former Democrat in the House from Pennsylvania. “If they work hard, we can get them their degree quickly.”
Higher ed institutions to appeal Education Department’s $6B settlement with borrowers – January 17, 2023
Nicholas Kent, chief policy officer for Career Education Colleges and Universities, a group representing for-profit colleges, expects the 9th Circuit would block the settlement agreement from being carried out until the institutions’ appeals were considered. “The considerations weigh in favor of the schools here,” Kent said. “If they didn’t stay the appeal, and the department started to effectuate the loan debt and other actions that go along with the judgment, those are going to be impossible or very difficult to unwind.”
Nicholas Kent, chief policy officer for Career Education Colleges and Universities, a group representing for-profit colleges, expects the 9th Circuit would block the settlement agreement from being carried out until the institutions’ appeals were considered. “The considerations weigh in favor of the schools here,” Kent said. “If they didn’t stay the appeal, and the department started to effectuate the loan debt and other actions that go along with the judgment, those are going to be impossible or very difficult to unwind.”
Biden administration plans to publish list of ‘low value’ degrees – January 16, 2023
“The department has a well-established bias against for-profit institutions and a zeal for weaponising the tools at its disposal to make it more difficult for those schools to serve students,” said CECU president Jason Altmire. “That said, we are encouraged by this solicitation.”
“The department has a well-established bias against for-profit institutions and a zeal for weaponising the tools at its disposal to make it more difficult for those schools to serve students,” said CECU president Jason Altmire. “That said, we are encouraged by this solicitation.”
Biden administration plans to publish list of ‘low value’ degrees – January 16, 2023
“The department has a well-established bias against for-profit institutions and a zeal for weaponising the tools at its disposal to make it more difficult for those schools to serve students,” said CECU president Jason Altmire. “That said, we are encouraged by this solicitation.”
“The department has a well-established bias against for-profit institutions and a zeal for weaponising the tools at its disposal to make it more difficult for those schools to serve students,” said CECU president Jason Altmire. “That said, we are encouraged by this solicitation.”
Education Department Plans to Publish List of Low-Performing Programs – January 13, 2023
Career Education Colleges and Universities, an organization representing for-profit institutions, said in a statement this week that the list should provide information about programs at all types of colleges and universities. “The department has a well-established bias against for-profit institutions and a zeal for weaponizing the tools at its disposal to make it more difficult for those schools to serve students,” CECU president Jason Altmire said in the statement. “That said, we are encouraged by this solicitation.
Career Education Colleges and Universities, an organization representing for-profit institutions, said in a statement this week that the list should provide information about programs at all types of colleges and universities. “The department has a well-established bias against for-profit institutions and a zeal for weaponizing the tools at its disposal to make it more difficult for those schools to serve students,” CECU president Jason Altmire said in the statement. “That said, we are encouraged by this solicitation.
The Education Department’s Plan to Name and Shame Higher Education Programs – January 11, 2023
(Subscription needed) “The Department has a well-established bias against for-profit institutions and a zeal for weaponizing the tools at its disposal to make it more difficult for those schools to serve students,” said Jason Altmire, president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities, in a statement. “That said, we are encouraged by this solicitation."
(Subscription needed) “The Department has a well-established bias against for-profit institutions and a zeal for weaponizing the tools at its disposal to make it more difficult for those schools to serve students,” said Jason Altmire, president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities, in a statement. “That said, we are encouraged by this solicitation."
Income-Driven Repayment Changes to Create ‘Student Loan Safety Net’ – January 11, 2023
Jason Altmire, president of Career Education Colleges and Universities, an organization representing for-profit institutions, said he was encouraged that the department was seeking input on how to create the list. Any list, he said, should apply to all institutions in all sectors. He worried that such a list wouldn’t take into account “that many career schools provide valuable graduates to important occupations in society that don’t make a lot of money.”
Jason Altmire, president of Career Education Colleges and Universities, an organization representing for-profit institutions, said he was encouraged that the department was seeking input on how to create the list. Any list, he said, should apply to all institutions in all sectors. He worried that such a list wouldn’t take into account “that many career schools provide valuable graduates to important occupations in society that don’t make a lot of money.”
Education Department’s renewed plan to list and shame low-value colleges draws concern – January 11, 2023
Altmire stressed CECU backs bolstered transparency measures. And he said he’s pleased the Education Department has given the public the opportunity to respond to a potential list. But he said he fears the list will exclusively feature for-profit colleges. “We just want it to be a fair measure, and have all colleges abide by the same metrics, and held accountable to the same measures,” Altmire said.
Altmire stressed CECU backs bolstered transparency measures. And he said he’s pleased the Education Department has given the public the opportunity to respond to a potential list. But he said he fears the list will exclusively feature for-profit colleges. “We just want it to be a fair measure, and have all colleges abide by the same metrics, and held accountable to the same measures,” Altmire said.
Democrats seek to create oversight committee governing for-profit colleges – December 8, 2022
Durbin’s announcement cited data suggesting for-profit colleges’ students account for a disproportionate share of student loan defaults. But Altmire argued that borrowers who attend nonprofit colleges also make up a sizable portion of defaults. “Why is he not concerned about holding those schools accountable for those defaults?” Altmire said.
Durbin’s announcement cited data suggesting for-profit colleges’ students account for a disproportionate share of student loan defaults. But Altmire argued that borrowers who attend nonprofit colleges also make up a sizable portion of defaults. “Why is he not concerned about holding those schools accountable for those defaults?” Altmire said.
Battle lines form over new borrower defense to repayment rules – December 6, 2022
Nicholas Kent, chief policy officer at CECU, said the Education Department is expected to handle borrower defense claims largely though the group process moving forward. Congress didn’t authorize the department to create a borrower defense program to decide on thousands of claims at once, Kent argued. “The department has created this monster,” Kent said. “That’s not what the borrower defense authority was initially intended for.”
Nicholas Kent, chief policy officer at CECU, said the Education Department is expected to handle borrower defense claims largely though the group process moving forward. Congress didn’t authorize the department to create a borrower defense program to decide on thousands of claims at once, Kent argued. “The department has created this monster,” Kent said. “That’s not what the borrower defense authority was initially intended for.”
US judge backs $6 billion in student debt waivers – November 18, 2022
The association representing for-profit institutions, Career Education Colleges and Universities, said it hoped the settlement would be overturned on appeal. The settlement “represents an unlawful overreach by the Department of Education and unfairly maligns over 150 institutions without any opportunity to respond”, the association’s president, Jason Altmire, said in a statement.
The association representing for-profit institutions, Career Education Colleges and Universities, said it hoped the settlement would be overturned on appeal. The settlement “represents an unlawful overreach by the Department of Education and unfairly maligns over 150 institutions without any opportunity to respond”, the association’s president, Jason Altmire, said in a statement.
Judge Grants Final Approval to Borrower Defense Settlement – November 18, 2022
“The four intervenor schools made a compelling case that the Sweet settlement represents an unlawful overreach by the Department of Education and unfairly maligns over 150 institutions without any opportunity to respond,” Altmire said in a statement.
“The four intervenor schools made a compelling case that the Sweet settlement represents an unlawful overreach by the Department of Education and unfairly maligns over 150 institutions without any opportunity to respond,” Altmire said in a statement.
Federal judge signs off on student loan cancellation for 200,000 borrowers – November 18, 2022
“We are disappointed that Judge Alsup overlooked these defects and approved the settlement,” said Altmire in a statement. “We expect that the Ninth Circuit on appeal will recognize these fatal flaws and send the parties back to the negotiating table.”
“We are disappointed that Judge Alsup overlooked these defects and approved the settlement,” said Altmire in a statement. “We expect that the Ninth Circuit on appeal will recognize these fatal flaws and send the parties back to the negotiating table.”
Court awards $6 billion in student loan relief to borrowers – November 18, 2022
Career Education Colleges and Universities (CECU), which represents many of the more than 150 schools on the settlement list, released a statement calling the decision an “unlawful overreach” and saying it “unfairly maligns” the schools without a chance for them to defend themselves.
Career Education Colleges and Universities (CECU), which represents many of the more than 150 schools on the settlement list, released a statement calling the decision an “unlawful overreach” and saying it “unfairly maligns” the schools without a chance for them to defend themselves.
Borrower-Defense Settlement To Discharge $6 Billion in Loans – November 18, 2022
“We are disappointed that Judge Alsup overlooked these defects and approved the settlement. We expect that the Ninth Circuit on appeal will recognize these fatal flaws and send the parties back to the negotiating table.”
“We are disappointed that Judge Alsup overlooked these defects and approved the settlement. We expect that the Ninth Circuit on appeal will recognize these fatal flaws and send the parties back to the negotiating table.”
Federal judge signs off on student loan cancellation for 200,000 borrowers – November 17, 2022
Career Education Colleges and Universities president and CEO Dr. Jason Altmire stated his opposition to the ruling, claiming that the verdict is unlawful and “unfairly maligned over 150 institutions without any opportunity to respond.” CECU represents many of the listed schools in the settlement agreement and has been heavily involved with the lawsuit’s development.
Career Education Colleges and Universities president and CEO Dr. Jason Altmire stated his opposition to the ruling, claiming that the verdict is unlawful and “unfairly maligned over 150 institutions without any opportunity to respond.” CECU represents many of the listed schools in the settlement agreement and has been heavily involved with the lawsuit’s development.
Judge approves Sweet v. Cardona student debt relief settlement, but likely appeal looms – November 17, 2022
“The four intervenor schools made a compelling case that the Sweet settlement represents an unlawful overreach by the Department of Education and unfairly maligns over 150 institutions without any opportunity to respond,” Jason Altmire, CECU president and CEO, said in a statement.
“The four intervenor schools made a compelling case that the Sweet settlement represents an unlawful overreach by the Department of Education and unfairly maligns over 150 institutions without any opportunity to respond,” Jason Altmire, CECU president and CEO, said in a statement.
Judge rules to erase the student loans of 200k borrowers who say they were ripped off – November 17, 2022
In a statement response, Jason Altmire, the president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities (CECU), which represents many of the 153 schools on the settlement list, said his group is "disappointed" with the decision: "We expect that the Ninth Circuit on appeal will recognize these fatal flaws and send the parties back to the negotiating table.
In a statement response, Jason Altmire, the president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities (CECU), which represents many of the 153 schools on the settlement list, said his group is "disappointed" with the decision: "We expect that the Ninth Circuit on appeal will recognize these fatal flaws and send the parties back to the negotiating table.
Judge gives final OK to sweeping student loan fraud settlement – November 16, 2022
Jason Altmire, the group's president and CEO, said he was disappointed in the decision but expects an appeal. The settlement, he said in a statement, "represents an unlawful overreach by the Department of Education and unfairly maligns over 150 institutions based on mere allegations without any opportunity to respond."
Jason Altmire, the group's president and CEO, said he was disappointed in the decision but expects an appeal. The settlement, he said in a statement, "represents an unlawful overreach by the Department of Education and unfairly maligns over 150 institutions based on mere allegations without any opportunity to respond."
Judge grants final approval of $6 billion student loan settlement – November 16, 2022
“The settlement represents an unlawful overreach by the Department of Education and unfairly maligns over 150 institutions without any opportunity to respond,” Altmire said. “We expect that the Ninth Circuit on appeal will recognize these fatal flaws and send the parties back to the negotiating table.”
“The settlement represents an unlawful overreach by the Department of Education and unfairly maligns over 150 institutions without any opportunity to respond,” Altmire said. “We expect that the Ninth Circuit on appeal will recognize these fatal flaws and send the parties back to the negotiating table.”
New Biden Rule Speeds Up Student-Loan Forgiveness for Defrauded Borrowers – October 31, 2022
“The Department has cut corners in a rush to ram through a punitive borrower defense rule with serious legal and regulatory flaws that could undermine the American education system,” said Jason Altmire, head of Career Education Colleges and Universities, a for-profit school industry group.
“The Department has cut corners in a rush to ram through a punitive borrower defense rule with serious legal and regulatory flaws that could undermine the American education system,” said Jason Altmire, head of Career Education Colleges and Universities, a for-profit school industry group.
Biden admin relaxes rules for student debt forgiveness – October 31, 2022
The rules were embraced by student advocates but blasted by an industry group representing for-profit colleges. The group said the rules will deprive schools of due process protections, and it questioned how closely the department reviewed the more than 5,000 public comments responding to its initial proposal.
The rules were embraced by student advocates but blasted by an industry group representing for-profit colleges. The group said the rules will deprive schools of due process protections, and it questioned how closely the department reviewed the more than 5,000 public comments responding to its initial proposal.
Education Department unveils final 'borrower defense' rule – October 31, 2022
“This is yet another example of the department’s willingness to disregard established process to pursue a partisan borrower defense agenda that is contrary to the best interests of schools and students," Altmire said.
“This is yet another example of the department’s willingness to disregard established process to pursue a partisan borrower defense agenda that is contrary to the best interests of schools and students," Altmire said.
ED Issues Final Rules on Borrower Defense, Closed School Discharges, Total and Permanent Disability Discharges, Interest Capitalization, False Certification, and Public Service Loan Forgiveness – November 1, 2022
On Monday, CECU said that given the abbreviated 41-day window between the comment submission deadline and when ED submitted the final rule for interagency review, ED could not have “meaningfully considered thousands of comment submissions.”
On Monday, CECU said that given the abbreviated 41-day window between the comment submission deadline and when ED submitted the final rule for interagency review, ED could not have “meaningfully considered thousands of comment submissions.”
Biden admin relaxes rules for student debt forgiveness – October 31, 2022
“The department has cut corners in a rush to ram through a punitive borrower defense rule with serious legal and regulatory flaws that could undermine the American education system,” said Jason Altmire, a former Democratic congressman and president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities.
“The department has cut corners in a rush to ram through a punitive borrower defense rule with serious legal and regulatory flaws that could undermine the American education system,” said Jason Altmire, a former Democratic congressman and president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities.
Borrower-Defense Rules Finalized – November 1, 2022
Career Education Colleges and Universities, the association representing for-profit institutions, submitted a 137-page comment arguing in part that the rule violates the law by depriving schools of essential due process protections. On Monday, the organization questioned whether the department meaningfully considered all the comments submitted.
Career Education Colleges and Universities, the association representing for-profit institutions, submitted a 137-page comment arguing in part that the rule violates the law by depriving schools of essential due process protections. On Monday, the organization questioned whether the department meaningfully considered all the comments submitted.
Education Department releases final rules on borrower defense to repayment, closed school discharge – October 31, 2022
Just 41 days passed between the Aug. 12 deadline for public comment on the proposals and the date the Education Department submitted final rules for interagency review. That prompts doubts about whether regulators could have meaningfully considered comments submitted, which numbered more than 5,000, CECU said in a statement.
Just 41 days passed between the Aug. 12 deadline for public comment on the proposals and the date the Education Department submitted final rules for interagency review. That prompts doubts about whether regulators could have meaningfully considered comments submitted, which numbered more than 5,000, CECU said in a statement.
90-10 Loophole Closed – October 28, 2022
“We don’t agree that 90-10 is in any way a measure of quality,” Altmire said. “We don’t agree that it’s good public policy. In fact, we strongly disagree with the public policy. But given the political reality and the fact that they were going to proceed with this, as they have the authority to do, we’re at least content that our concerns were heard on some of the bigger issues that were at play.”
“We don’t agree that 90-10 is in any way a measure of quality,” Altmire said. “We don’t agree that it’s good public policy. In fact, we strongly disagree with the public policy. But given the political reality and the fact that they were going to proceed with this, as they have the authority to do, we’re at least content that our concerns were heard on some of the bigger issues that were at play.”
Education Department finalizes 90/10 rule, college ownership regulations – October 28, 2022
Jason Altmire, president and chief executive of Career Education Colleges and Universities, in a statement called the new 90/10 regulation “an ineffective measure of quality that focuses on a student’s ability to pay rather than willingness to pay.” Though CECU disagrees with the “flawed metric,” Altmire said the group appreciated the Education Department hewing closely to the regulatory language negotiated earlier this year.
Jason Altmire, president and chief executive of Career Education Colleges and Universities, in a statement called the new 90/10 regulation “an ineffective measure of quality that focuses on a student’s ability to pay rather than willingness to pay.” Though CECU disagrees with the “flawed metric,” Altmire said the group appreciated the Education Department hewing closely to the regulatory language negotiated earlier this year.
For-profit college owners should be on the hook for loan discharges, 6 senators argue - October 20, 2022
Nicholas Kent, chief policy officer at Career Education Colleges and Universities, a group representing for-profit schools, said in an emailed statement Wednesday that all higher education institutions should be held responsible when they violate laws and mislead students. “But the ability to hold executives personally responsible for funds their institutions owe is limited under existing law,” Kent said. “These Senators are inappropriately pressuring the Department to change the rules governing personal responsibility in American corporate law to furtherance their campaign against private career schools.”
Nicholas Kent, chief policy officer at Career Education Colleges and Universities, a group representing for-profit schools, said in an emailed statement Wednesday that all higher education institutions should be held responsible when they violate laws and mislead students. “But the ability to hold executives personally responsible for funds their institutions owe is limited under existing law,” Kent said. “These Senators are inappropriately pressuring the Department to change the rules governing personal responsibility in American corporate law to furtherance their campaign against private career schools.”
Blanket Transcript-Withholding Policies Are ‘Abusive,’ Federal Agency Says – October 6, 2022
“Instead of engaging institutions, engaging lenders, engaging the public on this practice of transcript withholding, they pulled a new interpretation of law into a guide for their examiners, which is a really terrible way of making policy,” said Nicholas Kent, the group’s chief policy officer.
“Instead of engaging institutions, engaging lenders, engaging the public on this practice of transcript withholding, they pulled a new interpretation of law into a guide for their examiners, which is a really terrible way of making policy,” said Nicholas Kent, the group’s chief policy officer.
Withholding College Transcripts for Loan Payment Is ‘Abusive,’ Agency Says – September 30, 2022
Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit colleges, criticized the move. “The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau continues to overstep its statutory authority with its transcript withholding directive,” Jason Altmire, the group’s president and chief executives, said in a statement.
Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit colleges, criticized the move. “The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau continues to overstep its statutory authority with its transcript withholding directive,” Jason Altmire, the group’s president and chief executives, said in a statement.
Student Loan Subsidies Could Have Dangerous, Unintended Side Effects – September 18, 2022
Jason Altmire, chief executive of the Career Education Colleges and Universities, a trade group that represents for-profit colleges, said, “As several economists have argued, the new repayment plan could drive up costs across all sectors of higher education and incentivize students to take on more debt.”
Jason Altmire, chief executive of the Career Education Colleges and Universities, a trade group that represents for-profit colleges, said, “As several economists have argued, the new repayment plan could drive up costs across all sectors of higher education and incentivize students to take on more debt.”
Here’s a list of the colleges in the Sweet v. Cardona settlement agreement - August 11, 2022
Several listed colleges took issue with the Ed Department’s arguments. Career Education Colleges and Universities has voiced concern that the Ed Department is trying to approve claims “without regard to individual merit.” Included in the article is a searchable list of all the schools in Exhibit C of the proposed settlement.
Several listed colleges took issue with the Ed Department’s arguments. Career Education Colleges and Universities has voiced concern that the Ed Department is trying to approve claims “without regard to individual merit.” Included in the article is a searchable list of all the schools in Exhibit C of the proposed settlement.
Senate Passes Bill to Restore 85-15 Rule – August 11, 2022
The bill would codify the 35 percent exception as well as clarify the 85-15 rule. It also streamlines the application process for colleges that apply for the exception. It is also supported by Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit colleges.
The bill would codify the 35 percent exception as well as clarify the 85-15 rule. It also streamlines the application process for colleges that apply for the exception. It is also supported by Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit colleges.
Taxpayers are owed more than $1 billion related to the student loan program — but not from borrowers – August 10, 2022
“We believe that if a school acted improperly, they lied to their students, they defrauded their students, there was a misrepresentation and the student was financially harmed, the institutions — after they’ve received their appropriate due process — should be held liable for the amounts discharged,” Kent said. “The Department, under this administration, has heavily weighted the due process rights of students while forgoing them for institutions,” he added, arguing that the settlement is an example of this dynamic.
“We believe that if a school acted improperly, they lied to their students, they defrauded their students, there was a misrepresentation and the student was financially harmed, the institutions — after they’ve received their appropriate due process — should be held liable for the amounts discharged,” Kent said. “The Department, under this administration, has heavily weighted the due process rights of students while forgoing them for institutions,” he added, arguing that the settlement is an example of this dynamic.
200,000 student-loan borrowers get a 'grand slam' after a federal judge moves them closer to $6 billion in debt cancellation – August 9, 2022
"The parties' proposed settlement has unfairly impugned the reputations of more than 150 schools, all without the basic procedural fairness to which these schools are entitled under the Department's own regulations," Altmire said.
"The parties' proposed settlement has unfairly impugned the reputations of more than 150 schools, all without the basic procedural fairness to which these schools are entitled under the Department's own regulations," Altmire said.
$6 billion student loan settlement gets preliminary approval – August 4, 2022
“The parties’ proposed settlement has unfairly impugned the reputations of more than 150 schools, all without the basic procedural fairness to which these schools are entitled under the Department’s own regulations,” said Jason Altmire, president and chief executive of Career Education Colleges and Universities, a lobbying group for for-profit colleges.
“The parties’ proposed settlement has unfairly impugned the reputations of more than 150 schools, all without the basic procedural fairness to which these schools are entitled under the Department’s own regulations,” said Jason Altmire, president and chief executive of Career Education Colleges and Universities, a lobbying group for for-profit colleges.
Education Dept. proposes tougher regulation of for-profit colleges – July 26, 2022
For-profit colleges have argued that the revenue rule is not a good measure of the quality of education provided by colleges. Jason Altmire, chief executive of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit colleges, called the rule “misguided” but commended the department’s approach. “Although we fundamentally disagree with this flawed accountability metric, we commend the Department for adopting the consensus-based language agreed upon during the negotiated rulemaking process,” Altmire.
For-profit colleges have argued that the revenue rule is not a good measure of the quality of education provided by colleges. Jason Altmire, chief executive of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit colleges, called the rule “misguided” but commended the department’s approach. “Although we fundamentally disagree with this flawed accountability metric, we commend the Department for adopting the consensus-based language agreed upon during the negotiated rulemaking process,” Altmire.
For-Profit Accountability and Pell Grants in Prisons – July 27, 2022
“This 90-10 formula has nothing to do with quality—this is a financial formula,” said Altmire. “They are making it more difficult for schools to pass the threshold.” Altmire said that since Congress proposed changes to 90-10 in 2021, for-profit colleges have been preparing for a change in the rule for the last two years. “We do feel our schools have the ability to do what they have to do to come into compliance,” he said in an interview with Inside Higher Ed.
“This 90-10 formula has nothing to do with quality—this is a financial formula,” said Altmire. “They are making it more difficult for schools to pass the threshold.” Altmire said that since Congress proposed changes to 90-10 in 2021, for-profit colleges have been preparing for a change in the rule for the last two years. “We do feel our schools have the ability to do what they have to do to come into compliance,” he said in an interview with Inside Higher Ed.
Federal officials attempt crackdown on for-profit colleges – July 26, 2022
(Subscription needed) "We look forward to working with the Department to implement the rule so that it is fair for both students and institutions,” CECU’s president and CEO Jason Altmire said.
(Subscription needed) "We look forward to working with the Department to implement the rule so that it is fair for both students and institutions,” CECU’s president and CEO Jason Altmire said.
Ed Department proposes tightening 90/10 rule and monitoring nonprofit conversions – July 26, 2022
“The 90/10 rule set by Congress is a misguided policy,” said CECU President and CEO Jason Altmire. “Although we fundamentally disagree with this flawed accountability metric, we commend the Department for adopting the consensus-based language agreed upon during the negotiated rulemaking process.”
“The 90/10 rule set by Congress is a misguided policy,” said CECU President and CEO Jason Altmire. “Although we fundamentally disagree with this flawed accountability metric, we commend the Department for adopting the consensus-based language agreed upon during the negotiated rulemaking process.”
Biden sets new limits on for-profit colleges – July 26, 2022
The chief association of for-profit institutions, Career Education Colleges and Universities, said it regarded the 90/10 rule as “a misguided policy” but credited the Biden administration with not pursuing some even harsher expansions of the rule put forward during the public negotiating sessions.
The chief association of for-profit institutions, Career Education Colleges and Universities, said it regarded the 90/10 rule as “a misguided policy” but credited the Biden administration with not pursuing some even harsher expansions of the rule put forward during the public negotiating sessions.
Education Department Responds to For-Profit Motion to Intervene – July 27, 2022
Altmire did say, “We’re not surprised at the response. We are going through some of the arguments that were made, which are more sweeping in their implications than only this settlement.” According to CECU, many colleges that were listed in the settlement were concerned about the reputations being harmed due to the pending borrower-defense claims that they say they never got a chance to respond to.
Altmire did say, “We’re not surprised at the response. We are going through some of the arguments that were made, which are more sweeping in their implications than only this settlement.” According to CECU, many colleges that were listed in the settlement were concerned about the reputations being harmed due to the pending borrower-defense claims that they say they never got a chance to respond to.
Loan forgiveness may be close for students claiming borrower defense – July 21, 2022
The settlement's critics also point out that the Education Department has investigated very few of these schools – let alone confirmed wrongdoing. "We have many concerns," says Jason Altmire, the president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities (CECU), a group that represents many of the schools on the list. "It does not appear that the department has done an individual review of each of these claims. In fact, they have themselves said that they did not do that," Altmire says.
The settlement's critics also point out that the Education Department has investigated very few of these schools – let alone confirmed wrongdoing. "We have many concerns," says Jason Altmire, the president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities (CECU), a group that represents many of the schools on the list. "It does not appear that the department has done an individual review of each of these claims. In fact, they have themselves said that they did not do that," Altmire says.
For-Profit Colleges Oppose Student-Loan Debt Settlement – July 18, 2022
Nicholas Kent, chief policy officer at CECU, told BestColleges the motion is a matter of protecting due process rights for institutions, as well as the reputations of the schools involved. "In part, the department is circumventing the borrower defense process by grouping these schools together and suggesting they engaged in fraud," he said. "We believe there should be an avenue for borrowers to have their claims reviewed in a timely way… but we are concerned that the settlement agreement circumvented all of the department's own regulations."
Nicholas Kent, chief policy officer at CECU, told BestColleges the motion is a matter of protecting due process rights for institutions, as well as the reputations of the schools involved. "In part, the department is circumventing the borrower defense process by grouping these schools together and suggesting they engaged in fraud," he said. "We believe there should be an avenue for borrowers to have their claims reviewed in a timely way… but we are concerned that the settlement agreement circumvented all of the department's own regulations."
Court pushes back hearing over $6B borrower defense settlement – July 19, 2022
“We think that this added time will allow the court to process and fully understand the missteps in the proposed settlement agreement and find that allowing the parties to intervene is necessary to preserving institutions’ due process protections afforded under the current borrower defense program,” Kent said.
“We think that this added time will allow the court to process and fully understand the missteps in the proposed settlement agreement and find that allowing the parties to intervene is necessary to preserving institutions’ due process protections afforded under the current borrower defense program,” Kent said.
For-Profits Seek to Intervene in Federal Borrower-Defense Settlement – July 15, 2022
“From discussions with schools listed in the proposed settlement agreement, several have indicated and expressed alarm that the Department of Education has never notified them of pending borrower-defense claims. This lack of notice and the ability to adequately respond violates institutions’ due process rights under the borrower-defense program,” said Nicholas Kent, chief policy officer for CECU.
“From discussions with schools listed in the proposed settlement agreement, several have indicated and expressed alarm that the Department of Education has never notified them of pending borrower-defense claims. This lack of notice and the ability to adequately respond violates institutions’ due process rights under the borrower-defense program,” said Nicholas Kent, chief policy officer for CECU.
For-profits oppose plan to forgive $6B in student loans to settle borrower defense case – July 14, 2022
“The U.S. Department of Education’s proposed settlement would grant debt cancellation relief to hundreds of thousands of borrowers without providing a meaningful process for assessing those borrower defense claims, and without giving all stakeholders a seat at the table to ensure that the outcome is fair and just for students, institutions, and taxpayers,” CECU President Jason Altmire said in a statement.
“The U.S. Department of Education’s proposed settlement would grant debt cancellation relief to hundreds of thousands of borrowers without providing a meaningful process for assessing those borrower defense claims, and without giving all stakeholders a seat at the table to ensure that the outcome is fair and just for students, institutions, and taxpayers,” CECU President Jason Altmire said in a statement.
Borrower-Defense Claims Could Be Paid by Colleges – July 11, 2022
“The bifurcation of the process of reviewing and approving borrower-defense applications from the recruitment process is being proposed in order to forgive student loans en masse with little to no evidence while abdicating the department’s responsibility of being a good steward with taxpayer dollars,” said Kent.
“The bifurcation of the process of reviewing and approving borrower-defense applications from the recruitment process is being proposed in order to forgive student loans en masse with little to no evidence while abdicating the department’s responsibility of being a good steward with taxpayer dollars,” said Kent.
Biden Administration Proposes Easing Student Loan Forgiveness Process for Defrauded Students – July 6, 2022
“For students who allege that they have been defrauded, there should be a careful and deliberative process for considering and resolving their claims,” said Jason Altmire, the head of Career Education Colleges and Universities, an association of for-profit schools. “[T]he Department intends to use the rule-making process to discharge federal student loans en masse while hurting unfavored institutions and their students in the process.”
“For students who allege that they have been defrauded, there should be a careful and deliberative process for considering and resolving their claims,” said Jason Altmire, the head of Career Education Colleges and Universities, an association of for-profit schools. “[T]he Department intends to use the rule-making process to discharge federal student loans en masse while hurting unfavored institutions and their students in the process.”
Biden administration wants to ease student-loan forgiveness for some – July 6, 2022
“Today’s proposed rule sends a clear and troubling message that the department intends to use the rulemaking process to discharge federal student loans en masse while hurting unfavored institutions and their students in the process,” said Jason Altmire, chief executive of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit colleges.
“Today’s proposed rule sends a clear and troubling message that the department intends to use the rulemaking process to discharge federal student loans en masse while hurting unfavored institutions and their students in the process,” said Jason Altmire, chief executive of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit colleges.
More flexibility proposed for student debt forgiveness – July 6, 2022
“Today’s proposed rule sends a clear and troubling message that the Department intends to use the rulemaking process to discharge federal student loans en masse while hurting unfavored institutions and their students,” Altmire said.
“Today’s proposed rule sends a clear and troubling message that the Department intends to use the rulemaking process to discharge federal student loans en masse while hurting unfavored institutions and their students,” Altmire said.
Some student loans may soon be easier to forgive. Here’s what that could mean for you – July 7, 2022
Some analysts are pushing back against the department’s push for borrower defense. The included provisions could be weaponized against for-profit institutions and should instead aim for greater balance between protecting students and institutions, according to Nicholas Kent, chief policy officer at CECU. “We don’t think it is grounded in existing statue, and we think it suffers from inadequate due process protection,” Kent told McClatchy News.
Some analysts are pushing back against the department’s push for borrower defense. The included provisions could be weaponized against for-profit institutions and should instead aim for greater balance between protecting students and institutions, according to Nicholas Kent, chief policy officer at CECU. “We don’t think it is grounded in existing statue, and we think it suffers from inadequate due process protection,” Kent told McClatchy News.
Biden administration unveils overhaul of ‘targeted’ student loan relief – July 7, 2022
Career Education Colleges and Universities president Jason Altmire said the administration’s proposed rule “sends a clear and troubling message that the Department intends to use the rulemaking process to discharge federal student loans en masse while hurting unfavored institutions and their students in the process.
Career Education Colleges and Universities president Jason Altmire said the administration’s proposed rule “sends a clear and troubling message that the Department intends to use the rulemaking process to discharge federal student loans en masse while hurting unfavored institutions and their students in the process.
Biden proposes more flexibility for student debt forgiveness – July 7, 2022
Jason Altmire, president and CEO of the industry trade group Career Education Colleges and Universities, said the policy would be an “unprecedented expansion” of the Education Department’s authority.
Jason Altmire, president and CEO of the industry trade group Career Education Colleges and Universities, said the policy would be an “unprecedented expansion” of the Education Department’s authority.
Simplifying Student Loans – July 7, 2022
Jason Altmire, the president of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents the for-profit sector, said, “We think the department has greatly exceeded their authority in putting this type of proposal forward.” “This is a clear attempt by the department to weaponize the rule-making process specifically targeted at one sector of higher education,” said Altmire.
Jason Altmire, the president of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents the for-profit sector, said, “We think the department has greatly exceeded their authority in putting this type of proposal forward.” “This is a clear attempt by the department to weaponize the rule-making process specifically targeted at one sector of higher education,” said Altmire.
Student loan debt would be erased for some under proposed U.S. plan – July 6, 2022
Career Education Colleges and Universities, an organization that represents for-profit colleges and universities, criticized the proposed changes, saying they are “not grounded in any existing statute.” “This is an unprecedented expansion of the Department’s authority that was never contemplated by Congress and that will have substantial negative economic consequences on institutions and taxpayers.”
Career Education Colleges and Universities, an organization that represents for-profit colleges and universities, criticized the proposed changes, saying they are “not grounded in any existing statute.” “This is an unprecedented expansion of the Department’s authority that was never contemplated by Congress and that will have substantial negative economic consequences on institutions and taxpayers.”
More flexibility proposed for student debt forgiveness – July 6, 2022
“Today’s proposed rule sends a clear and troubling message that the Department intends to use the rulemaking process to discharge federal student loans en masse while hurting unfavored institutions and their students,” Altmire said.
“Today’s proposed rule sends a clear and troubling message that the Department intends to use the rulemaking process to discharge federal student loans en masse while hurting unfavored institutions and their students,” Altmire said.
Ed Department proposes regulatory changes to borrower defense, PSLF, other student loan protections – July 6, 2022
Jason Altmire, the group’s president, said in a statement that the draft regulations lack due-process protections. He said the department wants to discharge federal loans “en masse while hurting unfavored institutions and their students.”
Jason Altmire, the group’s president, said in a statement that the draft regulations lack due-process protections. He said the department wants to discharge federal loans “en masse while hurting unfavored institutions and their students.”
Getting student debt forgiveness could be easier under new rules proposed by Biden administration – July 6, 2022
"Today's proposed rule sends a clear and troubling message that the Department intends to use the rulemaking process to discharge federal student loans en masse while hurting unfavored institutions and their students," Altmire said.
"Today's proposed rule sends a clear and troubling message that the Department intends to use the rulemaking process to discharge federal student loans en masse while hurting unfavored institutions and their students," Altmire said.
More Flexibility Proposed for Student Debt Forgiveness – July 6, 2022
“Today’s proposed rule sends a clear and troubling message that the Department intends to use the rulemaking process to discharge federal student loans en masse while hurting unfavored institutions and their students,” Altmire said.
“Today’s proposed rule sends a clear and troubling message that the Department intends to use the rulemaking process to discharge federal student loans en masse while hurting unfavored institutions and their students,” Altmire said.
Inside the deal that could revamp loan forgiveness for defrauded borrowers – July 5, 2022
Jason Altmire, president of Career Education Colleges and Universities, said in a statement to POLITICO that the group is “exploring all legal options.” He said that “CECU is especially concerned with the threat of potential due process violations and the public harm that will result from the proposed settlement if approved.”
Jason Altmire, president of Career Education Colleges and Universities, said in a statement to POLITICO that the group is “exploring all legal options.” He said that “CECU is especially concerned with the threat of potential due process violations and the public harm that will result from the proposed settlement if approved.”
Biden's Education Department just punted on a policy that could keep student-loan borrowers' debt from piling up after they graduate – June 25, 2022
Jason Altmire, the president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit institutions, said in a statement that he is "pleased that the Department of Education is taking the time necessary to reconsider their ill-conceived plans to propose an accountability measure that exempts the vast majority of institutions of higher education."
Jason Altmire, the president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit institutions, said in a statement that he is "pleased that the Department of Education is taking the time necessary to reconsider their ill-conceived plans to propose an accountability measure that exempts the vast majority of institutions of higher education."
Education Dept. to cancel $6 billion in debt for defrauded borrowers – June 23, 2022
“We are deeply concerned that in its haste to respond to outside political pressure, the U.S. Department of Education is attempting to approve wide swaths of claims without regard to individual merit,” Jason Altmire, president and chief executive of Career Education Colleges and Universities, a lobbying group for for-profit colleges, said in a statement.
“We are deeply concerned that in its haste to respond to outside political pressure, the U.S. Department of Education is attempting to approve wide swaths of claims without regard to individual merit,” Jason Altmire, president and chief executive of Career Education Colleges and Universities, a lobbying group for for-profit colleges, said in a statement.
Education Dept. Agrees to Settle 200,000 Borrower-Defense Claims – June 24, 2022
“The department has an obligation to take a more measured approach to determine if each student has been financially harmed based on an unlawful act. The court should look carefully at the settlement agreement to ensure it is fair for all parties involved.”
“The department has an obligation to take a more measured approach to determine if each student has been financially harmed based on an unlawful act. The court should look carefully at the settlement agreement to ensure it is fair for all parties involved.”
Ed Department strikes $6B settlement with students who attended for-profits – June 23, 2022
“We are deeply concerned that in its haste to respond to outside political pressure, the U.S. Department of Education is attempting to approve wide swaths of claims without regard to individual merit,” CECU President and CEO Jason Altmire said in a statement.
“We are deeply concerned that in its haste to respond to outside political pressure, the U.S. Department of Education is attempting to approve wide swaths of claims without regard to individual merit,” CECU President and CEO Jason Altmire said in a statement.
Biden's Education Department just punted on a policy that could keep student-loan borrowers' debt from piling up after they graduate – June 25, 2022
Jason Altmire, the president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit institutions, said in a statement that he is "pleased that the Department of Education is taking the time necessary to reconsider their ill-conceived plans to propose an accountability measure that exempts the vast majority of institutions of higher education."
Jason Altmire, the president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit institutions, said in a statement that he is "pleased that the Department of Education is taking the time necessary to reconsider their ill-conceived plans to propose an accountability measure that exempts the vast majority of institutions of higher education."
Biden Pushes Gainful Employment to Spring – June 23, 2022
“Rushing towards an arbitrary deadline is not helpful for any public policy. We hope with this additional time the department will rethink their fundamental approach to this accountability framework,” said Nicholas Kent, the chief policy officer at Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit institutions.
“Rushing towards an arbitrary deadline is not helpful for any public policy. We hope with this additional time the department will rethink their fundamental approach to this accountability framework,” said Nicholas Kent, the chief policy officer at Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit institutions.
Education Department delays gainful employment proposal until 2023 – June 22, 2022
“CECU is pleased that the Department of Education is taking the time necessary to reconsider their ill-conceived plans to propose an accountability measure that exempts the vast majority of institutions of higher education,” CECU President Jason Altmire said in a statement.
“CECU is pleased that the Department of Education is taking the time necessary to reconsider their ill-conceived plans to propose an accountability measure that exempts the vast majority of institutions of higher education,” CECU President Jason Altmire said in a statement.
Education Department Won’t Hold For-Profit College Executives Personally Accountable - June 15, 2022
The head of the for-profit college industry’s leading trade group, former member of Congress Jason Altmire, admitted to NPR, “In any case that involves substantial fraud or the owner withdrawing capital before a closure … they absolutely should be subject to [personal liability]. That is the reason that authority exists."
The head of the for-profit college industry’s leading trade group, former member of Congress Jason Altmire, admitted to NPR, “In any case that involves substantial fraud or the owner withdrawing capital before a closure … they absolutely should be subject to [personal liability]. That is the reason that authority exists."
Gainful Employment Change Could Harm For-Profits - June 9, 2022
“It is not an apples-to-apples comparison and the [Education] Department knows that,” said Jason Altmire, president of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit colleges. “We absolutely support accountability that applies across the board, to all schools and all sectors, but we are opposed to gainful employment as it is currently designed.”
“It is not an apples-to-apples comparison and the [Education] Department knows that,” said Jason Altmire, president of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit colleges. “We absolutely support accountability that applies across the board, to all schools and all sectors, but we are opposed to gainful employment as it is currently designed.”
Harris remarks on canceled student loan debt for former Corinthian College students - June 2, 2022
“The (Education) Department and others should not conflate the actions of one organization with an entire sector that has provided opportunities for millions of students and contributed to our nation’s workforce,” said Jason Altmire, president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities.
“The (Education) Department and others should not conflate the actions of one organization with an entire sector that has provided opportunities for millions of students and contributed to our nation’s workforce,” said Jason Altmire, president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities.
Student loan debt wiped clean for former Corinthian students - June 2, 2022
A for-profit college trade group said students who are deceived by their colleges deserve relief, but that Corinthian’s actions “do not represent all private career schools.” “The (Education) Department and others should not conflate the actions of one organization with an entire sector that has provided opportunities for millions of students and contributed to our nation’s workforce,” said Jason Altmire, president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities.
A for-profit college trade group said students who are deceived by their colleges deserve relief, but that Corinthian’s actions “do not represent all private career schools.” “The (Education) Department and others should not conflate the actions of one organization with an entire sector that has provided opportunities for millions of students and contributed to our nation’s workforce,” said Jason Altmire, president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities.
Biden cancels all remaining student loan debt from Corinthian Colleges - June 1, 2022
Jason Altmire, a former Democratic congressman who now leads the for-profit college trade association Career Education Colleges and Universities, said in a statement on Wednesday that Corinthian’s actions “do not represent” the entire sector that he represents. “Students intentionally deceived by their college and who were financially harmed are entitled to appropriate relief regardless of whether the related actions are perpetrated by a public, nonprofit, or for-profit institution,” he said in a statement.
Jason Altmire, a former Democratic congressman who now leads the for-profit college trade association Career Education Colleges and Universities, said in a statement on Wednesday that Corinthian’s actions “do not represent” the entire sector that he represents. “Students intentionally deceived by their college and who were financially harmed are entitled to appropriate relief regardless of whether the related actions are perpetrated by a public, nonprofit, or for-profit institution,” he said in a statement.
Biden Administration Looks to Speed Student-Loan Forgiveness for Defrauded Borrowers - April 13, 2022
“That was the key issue—having to show that the student putting forward this claim would show harm on an individual basis,” said Jason Altmire, chief executive of Career Education Colleges and Universities, a for-profit school trade group.
“That was the key issue—having to show that the student putting forward this claim would show harm on an individual basis,” said Jason Altmire, chief executive of Career Education Colleges and Universities, a for-profit school trade group.
The truck-driving industry claims there's a driver shortage. But it's complicated. - April 7, 2022
Meanwhile, for-profit colleges trained 7,600 drivers last year, or 51% of all truck-driving graduates, said Jason Altmire, president and CEO of the Career Education Colleges and Universities. “There is a lot of turnover for different reasons, and we feel like we are helping with the supply of drivers,” Altmire said. “We do try to make our students aware of what that lifestyle is going to look like.”
Meanwhile, for-profit colleges trained 7,600 drivers last year, or 51% of all truck-driving graduates, said Jason Altmire, president and CEO of the Career Education Colleges and Universities. “There is a lot of turnover for different reasons, and we feel like we are helping with the supply of drivers,” Altmire said. “We do try to make our students aware of what that lifestyle is going to look like.”
New Education Department Rules on Failing For-Profit Colleges - March 24, 2022
Jason Altmire, president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities, said, “Determining whether to pierce the corporate veil should be a fact-specific inquiry. When corporate parents intentionally withdraw equity or become the alter ego of the institutional subsidiary, piercing the veil may be appropriate. However, courts have long recognized that piercing the veil is not appropriate in the case of ordinary business decisions. The U.S. Department of Education should take into account all circumstances surrounding an institutional closure before taking the extraordinary step of piercing the corporate veil to reach the assets of the corporate parent.”
Jason Altmire, president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities, said, “Determining whether to pierce the corporate veil should be a fact-specific inquiry. When corporate parents intentionally withdraw equity or become the alter ego of the institutional subsidiary, piercing the veil may be appropriate. However, courts have long recognized that piercing the veil is not appropriate in the case of ordinary business decisions. The U.S. Department of Education should take into account all circumstances surrounding an institutional closure before taking the extraordinary step of piercing the corporate veil to reach the assets of the corporate parent.”
The Ed Department brokered a deal on 90/10 rule changes. Here's what's inside. - March 21, 2022
"It is surprising to a lot of people in higher education that the negotiating committee reached consensus on what was probably one of the most contentious items," said Nicholas Kent, senior vice president of policy and regulatory affairs at Career Education Colleges and Universities. "I don't think that a lot of people — especially when they saw the department's opening proposal in January — thought that there was any way that the committee would reach consensus."
"It is surprising to a lot of people in higher education that the negotiating committee reached consensus on what was probably one of the most contentious items," said Nicholas Kent, senior vice president of policy and regulatory affairs at Career Education Colleges and Universities. "I don't think that a lot of people — especially when they saw the department's opening proposal in January — thought that there was any way that the committee would reach consensus."
Gainful employment proposal looks at college vs. high school grads' earnings - March 9, 2022
"We think that if there are accountability measures that they should apply to all programs and all institutions," said Nicholas Kent, senior vice president of policy and regulatory affairs at Career Education Colleges and Universities, an organization that represents for-profit institutions.
"We think that if there are accountability measures that they should apply to all programs and all institutions," said Nicholas Kent, senior vice president of policy and regulatory affairs at Career Education Colleges and Universities, an organization that represents for-profit institutions.
When colleges defraud students, should the government go after school executives? - March 1, 2022
Altmire cautions, however, "If you're going to apply accountability standards, just apply them to all schools in all sectors." Translation: Make sure for-profit trade schools aren't the only kinds of colleges held under the microscope.
Altmire cautions, however, "If you're going to apply accountability standards, just apply them to all schools in all sectors." Translation: Make sure for-profit trade schools aren't the only kinds of colleges held under the microscope.
New Study Shows Many Traditional Colleges Fail ‘Gainful Employment’ Test for Grads - February 27, 2022
“This shows that had gainful employment been applied across all sectors of higher education, the vast majority of failing programs would have been at private nonprofit and public institutions, not-for-profit institutions,” said Altmire, a Democrat and former member of Congress from Pennsylvania. “This is a reality that many advocates of accountability for all sectors of higher education have long suspected, and now we have the data to show without a shadow of a doubt that all students across all sectors of higher education need protections to ensure that the programs they’re attending give them a strong return on investment.”
“This shows that had gainful employment been applied across all sectors of higher education, the vast majority of failing programs would have been at private nonprofit and public institutions, not-for-profit institutions,” said Altmire, a Democrat and former member of Congress from Pennsylvania. “This is a reality that many advocates of accountability for all sectors of higher education have long suspected, and now we have the data to show without a shadow of a doubt that all students across all sectors of higher education need protections to ensure that the programs they’re attending give them a strong return on investment.”
For-Profit Colleges Seeking to Become Nonprofits May Face Tighter Regulations - February 16, 2022
"The reality is that these transactions happen infrequently, in part because they typically take several years for federal and state agencies and college accreditors to assess the legitimacy of the conversion," he (Nicholas Kent) added via email. "For those that allege that a for-profit college may want to transition to nonprofit status simply to benefit from public perception or to escape regulatory scrutiny, that concern could be easily addressed if we hold all institutions to the same accountability rules."
"The reality is that these transactions happen infrequently, in part because they typically take several years for federal and state agencies and college accreditors to assess the legitimacy of the conversion," he (Nicholas Kent) added via email. "For those that allege that a for-profit college may want to transition to nonprofit status simply to benefit from public perception or to escape regulatory scrutiny, that concern could be easily addressed if we hold all institutions to the same accountability rules."
Rules on for-profit colleges could hurt economy, veterans - February 16, 2022
“There is an argument to be made here that if this rule was a good rule, it would apply to all institutions, right?” said Kent about the 90/10 rule. “It’s only applied to career schools, private career schools, so, for-profit career schools, and, again, it doesn’t measure whether a student is getting a good education, what it’s measuring is whether or not the student has the ability to pay for some of that education and that’s not how we should be measuring outcomes in this country in higher education.”
“There is an argument to be made here that if this rule was a good rule, it would apply to all institutions, right?” said Kent about the 90/10 rule. “It’s only applied to career schools, private career schools, so, for-profit career schools, and, again, it doesn’t measure whether a student is getting a good education, what it’s measuring is whether or not the student has the ability to pay for some of that education and that’s not how we should be measuring outcomes in this country in higher education.”
'Gainful employment' regulations to improve college accountability are back on the table - February 14, 2022
"The ongoing rulemaking is an opportunity for the Biden administration to develop common-sense regulations that focus not on an institution’s tax status or the types of programs it offers, but whether students receive a good return on their investment," Kent said. "Resurrecting the gainful employment regulations, which would fail to protect over 75 percent of students enrolled in postsecondary education, would be a missed opportunity for this administration to protect millions of degree-seeking students attending public and nonprofit institutions.”
"The ongoing rulemaking is an opportunity for the Biden administration to develop common-sense regulations that focus not on an institution’s tax status or the types of programs it offers, but whether students receive a good return on their investment," Kent said. "Resurrecting the gainful employment regulations, which would fail to protect over 75 percent of students enrolled in postsecondary education, would be a missed opportunity for this administration to protect millions of degree-seeking students attending public and nonprofit institutions.”
For-profit college conversions get new scrutiny in US – February 4, 2022
Career Education Colleges and Universities does have some members that now hold non-profit status, said the group’s president, Jason Altmire. “I would say the lines are being blurred every day between for-profit and non-profit,” Mr. Altmire said. “You’re going to see a lot more of this across higher education.” One of his group’s main concerns, Mr. Altmire said, was that the Education Department lacks the money to make proper assessments of applications for non-profit conversions.
Career Education Colleges and Universities does have some members that now hold non-profit status, said the group’s president, Jason Altmire. “I would say the lines are being blurred every day between for-profit and non-profit,” Mr. Altmire said. “You’re going to see a lot more of this across higher education.” One of his group’s main concerns, Mr. Altmire said, was that the Education Department lacks the money to make proper assessments of applications for non-profit conversions.
Biden crackdown targets for-profit colleges – January 26, 2022
“We do not oppose accountability measures,” said Jason Altmire, CECU's president. “We believe any accountability measure that you want to impose, any metric that you want to use to measure accountability, should simply be applied to all schools without loophole and without gimmick."
“We do not oppose accountability measures,” said Jason Altmire, CECU's president. “We believe any accountability measure that you want to impose, any metric that you want to use to measure accountability, should simply be applied to all schools without loophole and without gimmick."
4 questions for-profit colleges face in 2022 - January 21, 2022
For-profit colleges have vociferously opposed their students being ineligible for the increase. "We feel that it is an injustice," said CECU President Jason Altmire. "It's just a matter of equity — that the Pell Grant program is designed to be portable."
For-profit colleges have vociferously opposed their students being ineligible for the increase. "We feel that it is an injustice," said CECU President Jason Altmire. "It's just a matter of equity — that the Pell Grant program is designed to be portable."
For-Profit Colleges That Lend to Their Own Students Face Scrutiny – January 20, 2022
“We look forward to working with the bureau and the higher education community to ensure any institutional loan programs meet students’ needs and provide appropriate safeguards,” said Jason Altmire, president of Career Education Colleges and Universities, an industry group representing for-profit schools.
“We look forward to working with the bureau and the higher education community to ensure any institutional loan programs meet students’ needs and provide appropriate safeguards,” said Jason Altmire, president of Career Education Colleges and Universities, an industry group representing for-profit schools.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau will examine private student lending - January 20, 2022
"We look forward to working with the Bureau and the higher education community to ensure any institutional loan programs meets students' needs and provides appropriate safeguards," said Jason Altmire, president and CEO of CECU.
"We look forward to working with the Bureau and the higher education community to ensure any institutional loan programs meets students' needs and provides appropriate safeguards," said Jason Altmire, president and CEO of CECU.
Biden Administration Moves to Undo DeVos Education Agenda - January 18, 2022
“This negotiated rulemaking is a watershed opportunity for the Biden administration to develop sensible regulations that protect all students and safeguard taxpayer funds,” says Jason Altmire, president and CEO of the Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents the industry. “With the availability of more data than we’ve ever had in higher education, the negotiating committee – which includes the Department of Education – has a moral obligation to develop policies that hold public, private nonprofit, and for-profit institutions equally accountable for their outcomes.”
“This negotiated rulemaking is a watershed opportunity for the Biden administration to develop sensible regulations that protect all students and safeguard taxpayer funds,” says Jason Altmire, president and CEO of the Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents the industry. “With the availability of more data than we’ve ever had in higher education, the negotiating committee – which includes the Department of Education – has a moral obligation to develop policies that hold public, private nonprofit, and for-profit institutions equally accountable for their outcomes.”
The (Renewed) Fight Over Gainful Employment – January 18, 2022
Nicholas Kent, senior vice president of policy and regulatory affairs at Career Education Colleges and Universities (the advocate for the for-profit sector), said in an interview that “many people feel that the current administration” has a “foregone conclusion” in favor of gainful employment. “We represent only 8 percent of students but are a disproportionate amount of the conversation,” he said.
Nicholas Kent, senior vice president of policy and regulatory affairs at Career Education Colleges and Universities (the advocate for the for-profit sector), said in an interview that “many people feel that the current administration” has a “foregone conclusion” in favor of gainful employment. “We represent only 8 percent of students but are a disproportionate amount of the conversation,” he said.
For-profit colleges fight exclusion from Pell Grant increase in Biden’s spending bill - November 23, 2021
“It’s a clear attempt to dissuade people from going to for-profit schools,” said Jason Altmire, president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit colleges. “We’re talking about disadvantaging students [at for-profit schools] in a way that doesn’t address accountability.”
“It’s a clear attempt to dissuade people from going to for-profit schools,” said Jason Altmire, president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit colleges. “We’re talking about disadvantaging students [at for-profit schools] in a way that doesn’t address accountability.”
Using Pell to Police For-Profits? - November 22, 2021
“In a House of Representatives with a five-vote Democratic margin, we were able to get 17 Democrats to support our position,” said Jason Altmire, president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit institutions. “We’re very confident moving into the Senate in a 50-50 dynamic that when an amendment is offered, we’ll be able to make the case that our students should be included.”
“In a House of Representatives with a five-vote Democratic margin, we were able to get 17 Democrats to support our position,” said Jason Altmire, president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit institutions. “We’re very confident moving into the Senate in a 50-50 dynamic that when an amendment is offered, we’ll be able to make the case that our students should be included.”
Build Back Better's Pell Grant provision prompts debate in higher-ed circles - November 19, 2021
“What this legislation does is discriminate against students who have attended a proprietary school because they've made the determination that their school is the best setting for them to pursue their higher education,” Altmire said. “And there's a lot of reasons why that could be — more flexibility, time to completion, a comfort level with having visited the school and talked to the administrators or whatever the decision is — why should a politician in Washington tell a student where they can and can't use their Pell Grant money?”
“What this legislation does is discriminate against students who have attended a proprietary school because they've made the determination that their school is the best setting for them to pursue their higher education,” Altmire said. “And there's a lot of reasons why that could be — more flexibility, time to completion, a comfort level with having visited the school and talked to the administrators or whatever the decision is — why should a politician in Washington tell a student where they can and can't use their Pell Grant money?”
For-profit colleges fight exclusion from Biden’s Pell boost - November 15, 2021
Democrats “clearly hoped they would be able to slip this in and nobody would notice, and the process would move so quickly that nothing could be done about it. Of course that hasn't been the case,” said Jason Altmire. “It is clearly an attempt to dissuade students from going to a for-profit school,” he added.
Democrats “clearly hoped they would be able to slip this in and nobody would notice, and the process would move so quickly that nothing could be done about it. Of course that hasn't been the case,” said Jason Altmire. “It is clearly an attempt to dissuade students from going to a for-profit school,” he added.
Democrats’ Bill Would Deny For-Profit College Students Extra Aid - November 12, 2021
“If you want to do a $1 trillion effort to rebuild America, those are our graduates,” Mr. Altmire said. “You’re going to disadvantage the very students you’re going to need to carry out this work.”
“If you want to do a $1 trillion effort to rebuild America, those are our graduates,” Mr. Altmire said. “You’re going to disadvantage the very students you’re going to need to carry out this work.”
Biden plan draws wide ire for excluding for-profit colleges from Pell increase - November 10, 2021
"This is a blunt instrument with a lot of unintended consequences," John Huston said. "We'd rather there be more of a focus on institutional accountability rules and that this provision be taken out."
"This is a blunt instrument with a lot of unintended consequences," John Huston said. "We'd rather there be more of a focus on institutional accountability rules and that this provision be taken out."
House Members Urge Inclusion of For-Profits in Pell Increase - November 9, 2021
"Congress has never passed legislation creating this type of distinction in the Pell Grant program," the lawmakers wrote. "We urge you not to break from that bipartisan tradition and hope you will ensure that all low-income students are eligible for the expanded Pell Grant."
"Congress has never passed legislation creating this type of distinction in the Pell Grant program," the lawmakers wrote. "We urge you not to break from that bipartisan tradition and hope you will ensure that all low-income students are eligible for the expanded Pell Grant."
Nationwide college enrollment continues to slide – October 26, 2021
Nicholas Kent at Career Education Colleges and Universities said the data is not a comprehensive look at the for-profit industry because it excludes two-year institutions. He says there is a bifurcation in the sector, with some schools suffering and others weathering tepid enrollment. All the same, the overall two-year decline among four-year for-profits and the community colleges are now very similar, Shapiro said. The sectors serve similar populations of students who are often older.
Nicholas Kent at Career Education Colleges and Universities said the data is not a comprehensive look at the for-profit industry because it excludes two-year institutions. He says there is a bifurcation in the sector, with some schools suffering and others weathering tepid enrollment. All the same, the overall two-year decline among four-year for-profits and the community colleges are now very similar, Shapiro said. The sectors serve similar populations of students who are often older.
The Ed Dept revived a financial aid investigative unit. Is it open season on for-profit colleges? - October 21, 2021
"Our fear is that this is just one more effort to target our sector and weaponize this new enforcement unit in a way that is going to only make it more difficult for proprietary schools to operate," said Jason Altmire, president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities, a group representing for-profit colleges.
"Our fear is that this is just one more effort to target our sector and weaponize this new enforcement unit in a way that is going to only make it more difficult for proprietary schools to operate," said Jason Altmire, president and CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities, a group representing for-profit colleges.
Cardona resurrects student-aid enforcement unit disbanded by DeVos - October 8, 2021
“We have a concern that, like happened under Obama, this effort at enforcement may only look at for-profit schools,” said Jason Altmire, CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit colleges. “Any effort to scrutinize financial aid should include all schools in all sectors because all students deserve protection and all schools should be held accountable.”
“We have a concern that, like happened under Obama, this effort at enforcement may only look at for-profit schools,” said Jason Altmire, CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities, which represents for-profit colleges. “Any effort to scrutinize financial aid should include all schools in all sectors because all students deserve protection and all schools should be held accountable.”
Advocates are pushing to hold college executives liable when their schools collapse or mislead students - August 19, 2021
(Tiered paywall; subscription might be needed) Though the Department of Education could arguably pursue personal liability for owners and executives based on provisions Congress added to the Higher Education Act in 1992, Altmire said his concern is that, “this is an extreme measure that they appear to be trying to make more commonplace than it was designed to be” under that law. “And certainly than it’s designed in corporate law. That is somewhat of an aberration from the traditional rules governing personal responsibility in corporate law in America,” Altmire said of the proposal.
(Tiered paywall; subscription might be needed) Though the Department of Education could arguably pursue personal liability for owners and executives based on provisions Congress added to the Higher Education Act in 1992, Altmire said his concern is that, “this is an extreme measure that they appear to be trying to make more commonplace than it was designed to be” under that law. “And certainly than it’s designed in corporate law. That is somewhat of an aberration from the traditional rules governing personal responsibility in corporate law in America,” Altmire said of the proposal.