Why It Matters

Cleary University, a private nonprofit business-focused university located in Howell/Ann Arbor, Michigan, was represented by Washington Strategies LLC from 2008 to 2011 and was represented by Hogan Marren Babbo & Rose Ltd. this year. The school registered with Hogan Marren Babbo & Rose Ltd. in September, focusing on general education policy issues. This marks a return to active lobbying for the university, which previously worked with Washington Strategies LLC during the 2008-2011 period when higher education faced significant federal scrutiny and appropriations pressures.

By the Numbers

Cleary University's latest lobbying registration, filed on September 18, specified no particular legislation or detailed policy issues. The filing covers general Education (EDU) issue areas.

Broader Context

The higher education sector faces mounting federal pressures. The Trump administration sent an open letter to universities on August 3, requesting public statements supporting its higher education priorities, including merit-based admissions. According to the Trump administration, it has terminated awards valuing between $6.9 billion and $8.2 billion, and the administration has targeted funding affecting more than 600 colleges and universities. Based on how much of the grants had already been spent by institutions, the administration has targeted between $3.3 billion and $3.7 billion in federal funding cuts. Negotiations are underway between the Trump administration and the Association of American Universities regarding a broader education overhaul.

Between The Lines

No specific legislation appears in Cleary University's filing. No member communications directly mention the university or its specific key issues.

The Bottom Line

Cleary University's return to lobbying reflects the current turbulent environment for higher education institutions navigating federal policy changes and funding pressures. The university's decision to engage Hogan Marren Babbo & Rose Ltd., a Chicago-based law firm with a dedicated education practice, signals preparation for sustained engagement on federal education matters, though the university has not yet specified particular legislative targets.

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