EDUCATION
Elon Musk plans to open a new university in Texas: Here’s what we know so far
Elon Musk has announced that he will open a new university in Texas... critics are raising alarms that the uncredited institution could be used to scam students
New tax filings from Elon Musk show his interest in establishing a university in Austin, Texas.
There is currently a heated debate about higher education in the ongoing culture war. Many people on the right are accusing higher education institutions of promoting “wokeness.” As a result, some individuals, like Elon Musk, are taking action to offer a non-woke alternative to prospective students.
Earlier this week, Musk posted on X that DEI, which stands for diversity, equity, and inclusion, must “die.”
In states currently led by Republicans, DEI offices at universities have been under attack. In Oklahoma, the governor signed an order that bans DEI programs at public universities and colleges.
What do we know so far?
Very little. According to 501(c)(3) filings, The Foundation, the organization that submitted the paperwork, first plans to establish a primary and secondary school. Musk supported the non-profit by contributing a $100 million donation. The ultimate goal is to expand and offer university-level education in mathematics, science, engineering, and physics. The focus will be on hands-on “learning experiences, including simulations, fabrication/design projects, case studies, and labs,” with classes taught by “experienced faculty.” Most of the filings contained information related to the primary and secondary schools that will be established before the university, so very little is known about the university’s specifics.
Will the University be accredited?
Critics are concerned that unaccredited institutions may attract students to schools that do not provide them with degrees that will hold much value when they start looking for a job. The Foundation aims to have it accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges. If such accreditation is granted, students will be protected as their degrees will be recognized as legitimate by potential employers and other formal institutions of higher learning.
Who is involved?
We know that the school will be located in Austin, Texas and that business executive Jared Birchall is listed as president of The Foundation in the filings. Birchall and Musk have a relationship going back many years, with Birchall currently serving as the CEO of Neuralink. A trusted advisor of Musk, Birchall is also his wealth manager and has been granted positions of power in Musk’s other firms and charities.
Another longtime Musk ally, Ronald Gong, is listed as the non-profi’s Tresurer. The secretary is currently filled by Teresa Holland.