AUBURN, Ala. — Auburn University’s decision to dissolve its Faculty Senate and shift control of curriculum and academic policy to its board marks a major escalation in Alabama’s ongoing fight over higher education, academic freedom and diversity programs, with critics calling it another sign that Republican leaders are tightening political control over public campuses.
The Auburn Board of Trustees voted June 5 to adopt two new policies: one governing academic curricula, courses, syllabi and core educational requirements, and another creating a Presidential Academic Advisory Council to replace the existing Faculty Senate. Auburn said the changes were designed to clarify how academic programs are reviewed and how faculty perspectives are incorporated into university leadership discussions.
But the move has triggered broader concerns because it gives the board “ultimate authority” over curriculum and related academic decisions, according to reporting on the policy language. Auburn’s action also comes after months of heightened conflict over Alabama’s anti-DEI law, SB 129, which restricts diversity, equity and inclusion programs in public schools and colleges and limits compelled discussion of so-called “divisive concepts.”…