The Trump administration has paused $175 million in federal funding to the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) due to its policies regarding transgender athletes. This decision has sparked protests on campus as many in the community voice their concerns over the impacts of such federal actions. Former UPenn swimmer Paula Scanlan has criticized the university for requesting donations during this funding freeze, while her former teammate Lia Thomas remains a focal point in discussions surrounding the controversy. The funding halt reflects broader tensions over the inclusion of transgender athletes in sports and compliance with federal policies, leading to significant backlash from students and alumni alike.