New survey results from Texas Tech University show growing concern among faculty over new Republican-backed curriculum restrictions targeting discussions of sexual orientation and gender identity. The rules, outlined by university chancellors, eliminate references to sexual orientation and gender identity from coursework and require alternate materials in undergraduate classes.
The phaseout of related academic programming is expected to be complete by June 15. Survey results released by the school’s Faculty Senate showed that about 50 percent of faculty altered coursework because of the policy, while 25 percent said administrators directly instructed them to make changes. The Faculty Senate also warned about faculty retention issues, stating, “The Chancellors’ Memos had a negative impact on faculty retention, with 46% concerned about their tenure and/or promotion, and 52% considering jobs at other universities.”
One faculty member wrote, “I will be leaving my job in the coming months because of this, I cannot and will not work at a place like this and I will tell my network to not come here.” Many instructors believe the changes have created a “toxic and anti-learning atmosphere” on campus. One instructor also pointed out the credibility of the guidance, saying that the guidance they received “was composed by AI and filled with inaccuracies.”
