The landscape of higher education in Texas has undergone significant changes in 2025, marked by new leadership and shifts in power dynamics. This year has seen increased control from state authorities, along with notable alterations in policy impacting educational standards across university systems.
Leadership Changes in Texas Higher Education
One of the most significant developments was the appointment of Jim Davis as President of the University of Texas (UT) on October 22, 2025. His appointment followed President Jay Hartzell’s resignation to lead Southern Methodist University.
Davis, previously the Chief Operating Officer of UT, is the first leader of the university in over a century without an academic background. His administration, alongside Provost William Inboden, aims to rebuild public trust in the institution.
- New university presidents were appointed without faculty input, a notable departure from past practices.
- UT’s Dean of Students, Katie McGee, was dismissed in October, while senior academic leader Art Markman was let go due to ideological differences.
- Currently, six of UT’s eighteen dean positions are unfilled, indicating ongoing leadership restructuring.
Influences from Political Leadership
In early 2025, the political environment shifted with the return of former President Donald Trump. His administration exerted increased control over academic research, funding, and the treatment of international students.
UT experienced a loss of $47 million in grants due to cutbacks in federal funding. This decision halted several projects across varied fields, including social sciences and technology access.
- In April, 176 students from the UT System had their visas revoked, affecting their enrollment.
- Despite setting a record for overall student enrollment, international student numbers declined by 1.7% this fall.
Legislative Changes Impacting University Structures
2025 marked a significant legislative shift affecting faculty authority within universities. Senate Bill 37, supported by former Senator Brandon Creighton, diminished faculty input in key decision-making processes.
- This law allows political appointees to review curriculum and degree requirements, a move criticized by many educational advocates.
- The establishment of a new ombudsman office will investigate complaints regarding adherence to laws affecting diversity and inclusion practices at universities.
Impact of the Dream Act Repeal
Another critical change occurred with the repeal of Texas’ 24-year-old Dream Act. This law previously allowed qualifying non-citizen residents to access in-state tuition. Lawsuits from the U.S. Department of Justice led to an injunction against the act.
- Approximately 1,460 students risk facing higher tuition rates due to the repeal, affecting their ability to afford college.
- Nonprofits and local colleges sought to intervene in the suit, but were denied the opportunity.
Changes Regarding Gender Identity Education
The discourse around gender identity in education also saw dramatic transformations. A social media incident at Texas A&M regarding a professor teaching about gender identity captured significant attention in September.
The aftermath included the dismissal of both the professor and UT’s president amid broader discussions on ideological content in university curricula.
- In response, several Texas university systems implemented course audits to assess compliance with the new legislative focus on gender ideology.
- New regulations prohibit courses advocating for gender or race ideology without prior approval across university systems.
As the Texas higher education system continues to adapt, it faces scrutiny over the implications of these changes. Each adjustment poses challenges for maintaining academic integrity while addressing new political pressures in 2025.
