The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression recorded a record 273 attempts to investigate, censor or discipline student expression in 2025, the highest number since the watchdog began tracking incidents. FIRE cites increased administrative interventions, political pressure from state officials, and heightened scrutiny of campus protests and social‑media posts as drivers. Cases ranged from discipline over pro‑Palestine demonstrations and responses to Charlie Kirk’s assassination to actions tied to DEI programming and faculty or student publications. Legal groups warn the surge risks chilling classroom debate and student journalism; university counsel offices are bracing for litigation. Administrators and governing boards should review free‑speech policies, faculty governance procedures, and investigative protocols to reduce legal exposure and ensure due process. For student‑affairs leaders, the spike signals a sustained need for clear, consistently enforced speech policies and proactive communication with stakeholders.