Higher Ed News Roundup: June 4

University of Texas Interim President’s Provost Appointment Sparks Faculty Concerns

Interim president Jim Davis of the University of Texas at Austin has named William Inboden as the sole finalist for the provost position, surprising faculty members and raising concerns about shared governance. Inboden, a former UT faculty member and current director at the University of Florida, has a background in foreign policy. Faculty expressed unease over the lack of consultation in the selection process, especially as Texas anticipates the signing of Senate Bill 37, which aims to align academic priorities with workforce needs. (Austin American-Statesman)


Florida Appoints New Education Commissioner Aligned with DeSantis’ Policies

The Florida Board of Education has unanimously appointed Anastasios Kamoutsas, a top aide to Governor Ron DeSantis, as the new Commissioner of Education, pending Manny Diaz’s confirmation as president of the University of West Florida. Kamoutsas is expected to continue advocating for DeSantis’ conservative education policies, including limiting public funding for DEI efforts and expanding the state’s school voucher system. (AP News)


India Seeks to Become Global Education Hub Amid U.S. Policy Shifts

India is positioning itself as a global education hub, aiming to attract international students affected by recent U.S. policy changes under the Trump administration. With increased challenges for international students in the U.S., India sees an opportunity to offer stable, high-quality educational alternatives, potentially strengthening its presence in international academia. (The Times of India)

Other News