Higher education institutions are wrestling with gender‑inclusion policy and campus climate. A Mainichi Shimbun survey found a mixed response among Japan’s women‑only universities: several have begun admitting transgender women while many others cite legal, facilities and registry barriers and remain resistant. In the U.S., the recent suicide of a transgender student at Middlebury College has intensified scrutiny of campus climates, support services and athletic and housing policies for trans students. Universities in both countries are balancing mission statements, student safety, legal frameworks and alumni and donor reactions as they update admissions and facilities policies.