A growing number of professors in the southern United States are leaving their positions. They say the political climate makes it hard to teach and research freely. States such as Florida, South Carolina, Texas, Tennessee, Georgia, and Kentucky are mentioned most often.
A recent survey by the American Association of Professors found that about 25% of faculty in these states have applied for jobs in other states since 2023. Another 25% plan to start searching soon. For the first time, the main reason for leaving is the political climate. Salary is no longer the primary factor.
Pressure on classrooms and research
Professors report that state rules and local policies affect what they can teach. Some say they feel pressure to avoid certain topics. Others report limits on research projects or curriculum changes imposed by external political groups. Many professors describe the situation as a “brain drain.” Experienced faculty are leaving or preparing to leave.
Some faculty members describe personal struggles. They feel torn between loyalty to their students and the need to find safer workplaces. Others say leaving is a form of self-protection. Many report that they worry about the long-term effects on their departments and students.
Why professors are leaving
The main driver is the broad political climate. Faculty cite ideological pressures, regulatory restrictions, and political interference in public higher education. They say these pressures create divisions among students and staff. Some warn that the damage to campuses could take years to repair.
The survey highlights a clear trend. Professors prioritize supportive political and educational environments over pay. They also look for workplaces that allow them to teach freely without fear of reprisal.
National and international context
This wave of departures is part of a wider trend. Some prestigious universities, including Yale, are losing faculty to Canada and other states. Faculty report that these locations offer more freedom to teach and research. Concerns about immigration rules, student visas, and public attitudes toward higher education also make professors consider moving.
Experts say that the situation in the South may affect the reputation and competitiveness of universities in these states. Departments may struggle to fill positions with experienced educators. Some warn that student learning and research quality could decline.
The impact on higher education
Southern universities face a growing loss of talent. Departures could affect teaching, research, and campus operations. The shift may change the academic landscape in these states for years. Faculty say they are seeking stability, safety, and freedom to work. The result is a long-term challenge for higher education in the South.
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