University leaders have struggled with the appearance of paying off the White House. Some schools, such as Columbia University, preferred the clarity of a cash deal that paid $200 million directly to the Treasury Department. Brown University, on the other hand, negotiated an agreement that allowed the school to spend $50 million on state workforce programs. Madi Biedermann, a spokesperson for the Education Department, said talks with Northwestern were progressing, adding that both sides were negotiating “in good faith.” “We look forward to announcing a final agreement soon that will ensure all students have equal learning opportunities, hiring and admissions...