Nicholas Kent
Kent, who previously served as Deputy Secretary of Education for the Commonwealth of Virginia under Governor Glenn Youngkin, will oversee all federal policies related to postsecondary education, vocational training, adult education, and student aid programs.
"Nicholas Kent's technical expertise and vast experience in higher education will serve as an invaluable asset to the Department of Education team," McMahon said in a statement following Kent's swearing-in ceremony.
The confirmation comes as the administration prepares to implement the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, comprehensive legislation aimed at reducing higher education costs, simplifying student loan repayment, and creating workforce-focused Pell Grants. The measure also includes provisions to hold colleges accountable for graduate employment outcomes.
In his first remarks as Under Secretary, Kent outlined an agenda focused on disrupting traditional higher education models.
"Now is the time to disrupt the status quo—by embracing alternatives to the traditional college experience, cutting costs, reducing federal bureaucracy, and holding every institution accountable for results," he said.
Kent's appointment signals a shift toward prioritizing vocational training and career-focused education. His previous role as Chief Policy Officer at Career Education Colleges and Universities (CECU), a trade association representing for-profit institutions, has drawn both support from workforce development advocates and criticism from traditional higher education groups.
