Federal agencies launch UND investigation

The U.S. Department of Education and State Department opened a foreign funding investigation into the University of North Dakota on Tuesday, citing incomplete, inaccurate, and untimely financial disclosures.

Duke University also under investigation

Duke University faces the same investigation as part of the same announcement. Both are research institutions that have received significant taxpayer support for developing critical and emerging technologies.

The disclosure requirement explained

Under Section 117 of the Higher Education Act of 1965, colleges and universities receiving federal financial assistance must disclose foreign source gifts and contracts valued at $250,000 or more annually.

UND's aerospace program draws scrutiny

UND's School of Aerospace Sciences uncrewed aircraft systems program has drawn significant investment from Chinese aviation companies with close associations with China's military, raising national security concerns.

Universities mischaracterized foreign partners

Both universities provided untimely and incomplete disclosures, erroneously identifying certain governmental partners as non-governmental entities, according to federal officials.

“The law is clear: colleges and universities must report foreign gifts and contracts accurately and on time.”

UND must produce records within 30 days

UND must submit tax records, compliance documentation, foreign agreements, research collaboration records, and copies of all reportable foreign gifts and contracts within 30 days.