UT System Appoints New President for San Antonio University

San Antonio, August 22, 2025

News Summary

The University of Texas System has announced the appointment of Dr. Taylor Eighmy as the inaugural president of the newly merged University of Texas at San Antonio. This merger, combining the University of Texas at San Antonio and the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, is set to create a significant educational institution that aims to impact the local economy positively. Expected to generate $7 billion annually, UT San Antonio will emphasize research and innovation, preparing for a future that includes dual degree programs and extensive clinical trials.

Big Changes Coming to San Antonio as UT System Announces New University President

San Antonio is buzzing with excitement as the University of Texas System Board of Regents has announced the appointment of Dr. Taylor Eighmy, PhD, as the inaugural president of the newly formed University of Texas at San Antonio (UT San Antonio). This marks a significant milestone for the city and the universities involved, as they prepare for a promising future following a major merger.

A New Era Begins

The merger combines The University of Texas at San Antonio and The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, both significant institutions in the area. This process has been in the works for the past year and aims to blend the strengths and resources of both universities. By doing this, UT San Antonio is set to stand out as a leader in education, discovery, health care, and innovation on a national level.

Economic Impact

With this merger, locals can look forward to a boost in the San Antonio economy. The newly established university is projected to generate an impressive $7 billion annually, thanks to its extensive initiatives. With over 40,000 students and 320 academic programs, UT San Antonio is ready to become a hub for education.

Meet President Eighmy

Dr. Taylor Eighmy, who has been President of UTSA since 2017, brings a wealth of experience and vision to his new role. Under his leadership, the university gained the prestigious Carnegie R1 research status — a remarkable achievement that highlights the institution’s commitment to research excellence. He also introduced Texas’ first College of AI, Cyber and Computing, reinforcing the university’s focus on technology and national security.

In another feat, Eighmy was appointed as the Acting President of UT Health San Antonio in February, juggling both responsibilities while overseeing the merger. His ability to streamline this complex process has garnered praise from the UT System Board of Regents.

What’s Next?

Set to officially merge on September 1, 2025, UT San Antonio will become Texas’ third-largest research university, following UT Austin and Texas A&M. Evolving from two powerhouse institutions, it will emphasize fields such as AI, computer science, engineering, and biomedical education and research. The plans are ambitious — including innovative programs like the first-ever MD/MSAI dual degree, which aims to train future physicians in utilizing AI for better healthcare outcomes.

A Bright Future

Looking ahead, UT San Antonio aims for a whopping $486 million in annual research expenditures and currently hosts over 500 active clinical trials.
With approximately 17,000 faculty and staff onboard, the university is geared up for some serious growth and collaboration with the community.

With enthusiasm among both campuses and the local community, there is a shared sense of excitement for what’s to come. As UT San Antonio prepares to pave the way for public research universities in America, San Antonio stands on the brink of transformative changes in education, healthcare, and economic growth.

Conclusion

So, buckle up, San Antonio! The future of education in our city looks incredibly bright, and UT San Antonio is ready to lead the way.

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Additional Resources

• OAOA
• Wikipedia: University of Texas at San Antonio
• Spectrum News
• Google Search: University of Texas San Antonio merger
• KSAT
• Google Scholar: University of Texas at San Antonio
• San Antonio Express-News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: University of Texas San Antonio
• Capital Analytics Associates
• Google News: UTSA economic impact

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The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.