UTSA and UT Health San Antonio merger announced
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The University of Texas System plans to combine the University of Texas at San Antonio and UT Health San Antonio into a unified university by 2025.
Why it matters: Combining the two universities is expected to "supercharge" San Antonio as a national leader in education, health care and economic strength, James C. Weaver, a local vice chair of the UT System Board of Regents, said in a statement Thursday.
- The system's leaders also expect the merger to result in more funding and partnerships and help attract top faculty and students.
Zoom in: The UT System expects the combined university to align with San Antonio's growth and strengthen its position as the gateway to South Texas.
- "San Antonio's global influence continues to expand, and the UT System is committed to a world-class university that embodies the region's rich history, vibrant culture and opportunity," the announcement says.
- The regents unanimously voted to name Taylor Eighmy, current UTSA president, as the president of the combined university.
What they're saying: "By bringing together all of their complementary and unique strengths, we will give Texans access to the best education, discoveries and health care imaginable, while accelerating the university's trajectory as a top U.S. and global university," UT Board of Regents chair Kevin P. Eltife said in a statement.
By the numbers: The combined institution would become the third-largest research university in Texas.
- Its annual research funding will be nearly $470 million.
- It will have six federally funded research and development centers.
What's next: The merger plan could be submitted to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges by March.
- It could be approved by June, according to the San Antonio Express-News.