University of Austin, an unaccredited Texas college, hosted a talk by Gad Saad during which he recounted a controversial rape anecdote to bolster his anti-immigrant and anti-empathy narrative. The event provided a platform for dehumanizing rhetoric that aligns with divisive, authoritarian ideologies.

The University of Austin, a new conservative institution founded by high-profile figures, has officially begun its first academic year. The event featured politically charged activities including a convocation address and a meeting with Texas Governor Greg Abbott, signaling the institution's embrace of an anti-woke, reactionary agenda.

UT-Austin fired approximately 60 employees from its diversity, equity, and inclusion and community engagement offices to comply with Senate Bill 17, which bans DEI initiatives in public universities. The decision, which also involved the closing of multiple DEI-related offices, has drawn sharp criticism from labor and civil rights groups.

The University of Austin (UATX) was launched as an alternative, non‐accredited institution with an explicitly political mission to counter what its founders describe as a 'culture of censorship' on college campuses. Controversially backed by Joe Lonsdale—whose past associations include figures like Peter Thiel and support from right‐wing media—the move has already spurred criticism, notably the resignation of University of Chicago Chancellor Robert Zimmer from its advisory board.

The University of Austin has drawn criticism for appointing board members with strong conservative leanings, including Sohrab Ahmari, a self-described post-liberal admirer of illiberal democracy. The appointment, highlighted in a Politico article, raises concerns over the university’s potential alignment with authoritarian values and a departure from progressive principles, which could undermine its commitment to fostering robust free inquiry.

The University of Austin has replaced diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies with merit-based admissions and free speech initiatives. This policy shift, highlighted by Vice President Michael Shires, aligns the institution with political figures advocating for rollback of DEI measures, a move that critics argue undermines protections for marginalized communities.