Tech, now the second Texas public university system to add similar teaching restrictions, had earlier directed faculty to follow state and federal guidance recognizing only two sexes.
Some students and professors say recent changes and scandals chill speech at universities. Others argue that conservative opinions can now be shared more freely.
Once considered a safe haven to explore identity, Texas campuses are invalidating and alienating trans people, students say.
Faculty have spent weeks seeking clarity on new restrictions, which have often been issued by word of mouth. A written Q&A was rescinded.
The federal and state governments want restrictions on recognizing trans and nonbinary people. Here’s how Texas’ higher education leaders are responding.
Professors are afraid to publicly speak out, system leaders left key questions unanswered and advocates worry for LGBTQ+ students’ mental health.
Instead of a campus-wide announcement, faculty members say the restrictions have trickled down through department chairs and college meetings.
More Texas universities are turning to politicians to lead their systems, preferring political clout over academic credentials.
The Conroe Republican has authored some of Texas’ major higher education legislation in recent years. He will take over as chancellor once he resigns from the Texas Senate.
While other universities move to preserve the advisory bodies, Texas State will abolish them under a new state law that curtails faculty’s influence on campuses.
Regional colleges rely more on tuition revenue to operate than flagship campuses. Gov. Greg Abbott’s desire to pause increases could create tight financial conditions.
State law prohibits schools from making direct name, image and likeness deals with athletes. Texas Tech says it puts them at a disadvantage as the university recruits athletes for fall 2025.
The university said it is investigating whether the professor’s comments, which it described as “hateful, antisemitic, and unacceptable,” found their way into the classroom or work environment.
The property is currently an observatory surrounded by open land. System officials say they’ll use it for agricultural research and other opportunities.
Texas lawmakers made huge investments in community colleges and created new endowments for public universities. They also banned diversity, equity and inclusion offices and gave themselves more control over university faculty tenure.
Community colleges want a funding overhaul this legislative session, and four-year universities are hoping for a boost in research funds. Meanwhile, faculty are bracing for a potential threat to tenure and limits to conversations about race.
Regents said they chose the UT System because of its access to the Permanent University Fund, which consists of oil and gas assets.
The SFA Board of Regents is expected to decide whether to join a system before the end of the semester. The Texas A&M, Texas State, Texas Tech and University of Texas systems have all expressed interest in adding the Nacogdoches school to their folds.