In this week’s episode, Matthew speaks with Karen, Ross and Heidi about the rising COVID-19 case numbers in Texas and conference realignment in college sports.
Higher Education
Coverage of universities, colleges, student issues, and education policy shaping Texas’ campuses, from The Texas Tribune.
Posted in
Demographics
Federal judge tosses lawsuit that sought to end UT-Austin’s affirmative action policy
The judge found that the group behind the suit had essentially brought the same claims in a previous case in which the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the University of Texas at Austin’s policy.
Posted in
Higher Education
University of Texas officially asks to join the SEC
The university is seeking to leave the Big 12 along with the University of Oklahoma, a move that would have wide-ranging impact on Texas college athletics.
Posted in
Higher Education
After UT-Austin signals a Big 12 exit, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick moves to create a Senate panel focused on college sports’ future
The University of Texas at Austin and the University of Oklahoma are expected to leave the Big 12 for the Southeastern Conference. The move throws the athletics future of several other Texas schools into uncertainty.
Posted in
Texas Legislature 2021
Texas lawmakers file bill to block UT-Austin from leaving Big 12 for SEC
The move is largely symbolic as the legislative session has been ground to a halt by the quorum-busting Democrats who fled Texas 11 days ago. Even if the Democrats returned, Abbott would have to add the item to his special session agenda for it to have a chance at passing.
Posted in
Demographics
UT hired consultant for up to $1.1 million to revamp battered image of “Eyes of Texas” song
The consultant, Brad Deutser, is listed as a member of the committee tasked with chronicling the full history of “The Eyes.” But some students who spoke with him said they felt he was trying to convince them to accept the school’s position on the song.
Posted in
The 2021 Texas Tribune Festival
T-Squared: What you can expect at this year’s Texas Tribune Festival
Nearly 150 speakers (including 20 more biggies revealed today) across more than 50 sessions. Four days of virtual programs. Two jampacked days of in-person programs. Everything streamed. Everything on demand. Are you as excited as we are?
Posted in
Texas Legislature 2021
Texas Senate approves limits on transgender athletes, but bills are still in limbo
Transgender students would be prevented from joining public school and university sports teams that correspond to their gender.
Posted in
Higher Education
Baylor University stirs anger and confusion as it opens the door for first LGBTQ student group
The decision to openly consider recognizing an LGBTQ group while simultaneously affirming the university’s belief that marriage is between a man and a woman raised concerns among supporters and opponents who say Baylor is trying to “have its cake and eat it, too.”
Posted in
Coronavirus in Texas
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott allocates $94.6 million in federal money to help students and colleges recover from pandemic-fueled problems
Most of the money will be used to help Texas colleges and universities expand or add new programs in areas with employment shortages and provide additional aid to students.
