Senate Confirms Nicholas Kent as ED Under Secretary
By Maria Carrasco, NASFAA Staff Reporter
The Senate on Friday voted to confirm Nicholas Kent as Under Secretary for the Department of Education (ED) in a 50-45 vote. In this position, he will oversee policies and programs related to postsecondary education, vocational and adult education, and federal student aid. According to ED Kent’s portfolio will also include overseeing the implementation of “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.”
Kent most recently served as Virginia’s deputy secretary of education. During his career in higher education, he has also served as the chief policy officer at Career Education Colleges and Universities (CECU), the trade association representing for-profit colleges, and the president of the CECU Research Foundation.
“Under Secretary Kent is exactly what is needed at the Department at this time of transition in higher education,” CECU’s President and CEO Jason Altmire said in a statement. “His profound understanding of the complexities of higher education policy and thoughtful approach to implementing commonsense reforms that support students, families, and taxpayers make him eminently qualified for the role.”
Kent’s confirmation vote, which came right before the Senate began its August recess, was 50-45 along party lines, with five members not voting.
On Monday, Kent was formally sworn in as ED’s under secretary.
“Not only will he work to fulfill President Trump’s vision for accreditation, accountability reforms, and more, but he will also be a great benefit to current and aspiring postsecondary students, faculty, and staff,” said Education Secretary Linda McMahon. “I look forward to serving alongside Nicholas as we continue to strengthen higher education and brighten America’s future.”
Note: An earlier version of this story linked to the Senate's vote record for Joseph Kent's nomination. That link has since been updated.
Publication Date: 8/5/2025
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