The cut, and more uncertainty over federal grants, come as the historically Black university faces a financial shortfall.

Tennessee State University, which has already been experiencing financial hardship, has been affected by the suspension of millions in federal grants.

Tennessee's flagship university is one of 60 colleges the U.S. Department of Education is investigating for potential civil rights violations related to "antisemitic harassment and discrimination." Why it matters: The University of Tennessee in Knoxville was named alongside Ivy League institutions and high-profile public and private universities.