States Strip Faculty Control from Universities | Birmingham News

Birmingham AL News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jun 30, 2026 · 1m

Auburn University’s faculty senate has been dissolved, handing academic control to the Board of Trustees — a move that’s sparking national alarm. Though technically exempt from a state law limiting faculty power, Auburn is now following a growing trend across states like Texas, Kentucky, and Tennessee, where politically appointed boards are seizing control over curriculum, hiring, and even what faculty can teach. Supporters tout accountability and fiscal responsibility, while critics warn this is a direct assault on academic freedom, opening campuses to political influence and chilling free…