University of Texas Declines Statement on French Comments
The Austin-based university points to its institutional neutrality policy regarding a recent social media controversy.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in College Applications
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The University of Texas administration has chosen not to issue a direct statement concerning online remarks made by Bo French about students. The decision follows internal discussions regarding a photo posted by French on X during a graduation ceremony.
Why it matters
University leadership opted against a direct response to maintain political neutrality. This action adheres to a formal policy adopted by the school regarding issues of the day.
The university received at least 22 emails regarding the remarks. In 2024, the school officially adopted a policy of institutional neutrality.
The players
Bo French
Bo French is the individual who posted a photo on X featuring students at a graduation ceremony.
Jim Davis
Jim Davis serves as the President of the University of Texas.
Patrick Wiseman
Patrick Wiseman is an official who communicated the decision via internal Microsoft Teams messaging.
The details
Internal communications from Patrick Wiseman via Microsoft Teams confirmed that the university opted against commenting on the matter. The policy limits official statements to issues involving specific university operations or direct community impact.
Timeline
In 1967, the University of Chicago adopted the Kalven Report.
The University of Texas adopted an institutional neutrality policy in 2024.
Bo French posted a photo on X in September 2026.
The administration managed the controversy in October 2026.
Culture Shift
The University of Texas's 2024 policy follows the precedent set by the 1967 Kalven Report, which emphasizes the necessity of institutional neutrality for academic freedom. This shift signals a broader move by major universities to avoid weighing in on contentious public social media discourse.
The university's stance means students and staff should expect a lack of official commentary on viral social media events. This policy changes the expectation of how the administration interacts with public discourse occurring on campus.
The takeaway
The university is prioritizing a neutral institutional stance over direct participation in social media controversies. Residents and students should anticipate that official channels will remain quiet on external issues that do not directly impact core school operations.
Further reading
For context on university governance and admissions culture, see College Applications.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KEYE.
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