Gov. Greg Abbott on Thursday appointed Brandon L. Simmons as Texas’ first higher education ombudsman, charging him to lead a newly created office to investigate complaints filed against the state’s colleges.
The ombudsman’s office was created as part of Senate Bill 37, which was passed by the Texas Legislature earlier this year and went into effect on Sept. 1. The office will have the power to investigate complaints claiming that universities and colleges aren’t following the new law or the state’s ban on diversity, equity and inclusion programs, as well as recommend funding cuts for violators.
SB 37 gives governor-appointed regents new authority to approve or deny the hiring of top university administrators as well as courses that they consider do not align with the state’s workforce demands. Traditionally, faculty have advised university administrators on such academic matters and hiring decisions, but SB 37 also limits professors’ influence on campuses.
Supporters say the office will bring needed accountability to higher ed institutions, while the American Association of University Professors has contended that, without due process protections, it is ripe for abuse.
According to the Legislative Budget Board’s fiscal analysis of SB 37, the ombudsman’s office will have five employees.
Simmons, who served as chair of Texas Southern University’s Board of Regents, said Thursday he will step down from the board. Regent James Benham will be taking over as chair.
Simmons is a distinguished professor of business at Wiley University in Marshall.
“Brandon Simmons’ achievements and dedication to educate our future leaders as an entrepreneur, professor, and university chairman will help ensure Texas’ higher education institutions continue to set the national standard and prepare our students to thrive,” Abbott said in a press release.
Simmons’ appointment requires confirmation from the Texas Senate.
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