On Jan. 13, a joint message from UTSA President Taylor Eighmy and UT Health San Antonio Acting President Robert Hromas was sent to faculty, staff and students regarding the current integration of the two institutions planned to be finalized by Sep. 1.
The email explains the reasoning for merging; it is meant to establish a world-class university serving Texas in every aspect and beyond. It will aim to enhance education, research, healthcare, community involvement and many more opportunistic innovations. The integration process is well underway, with a focus on coordination, stakeholder engagement and preparation for accreditation.
Much of the San Antonio community — including civic and corporate leaders — has shown unwavering support. A December 2024 marketplace survey denoted a sentiment about the merger’s benefits as well. Faculty, staff and students are highly encouraged to contribute feedback and participate in integration efforts.
A recent thread concerning the announcement was posted on Reddit. Students have reacted to this possible historic moment by sharing their excitement.
“I think it is so cool this merger is going through. I always looked at the UT Health SA campus and repeatedly wondered how sweet it would be if it was all UTSA unified as one,” a Reddit user posted. “This is a success story where two institutions have agreed to come together to offer the community the sum of their parts. For those who are vehemently apathetic or dismissive about it, I don’t understand how this news has earned your scorn. Be happy! Your school, city, and community is growing,” they said.
“Without a single doubt, this will. UTSA is the lesser addition here. Combining with a medical school will be monumental for our rankings. It’s going to be like witnessing two halves merge into something that should have been here in SA all along. A world-class university in the Alamo city,” another user commented.
Another thread was posted on Reddit where students commented sharing concerns.
“On paper, we might be considered one unit, but in reality, it will take MANY years to fully feel like one thing,” claimed a Reddit user. And even then, I’ll be curious to see what they have in mind. It still may be rather separate (like a branch or campus),” they said.
Another user stated, “I was curious what the vibe over there would be. I’d imagine there are a lot of mixed reactions and probably even some people afraid for their future. I’d imagine losing the pure professional focus would not be well welcomed by all.”
UTSA President Eighmy personally talked to incoming Honors College students, addressing the future of the merged institution. He informed the San Antonio Report of the students’ excitement.
“For 18-year-olds, they asked amazing questions about opportunities for undergraduate research, about opportunities for growing nursing programs and for expanding our undergraduate offerings and public health. They were very intrigued about new programs to enroll as an undergrad and get admitted in med school automatically, and having that kind of vehicle available to them,” said President Eighmy
The merger strives to mark the beginning of a transformative journey to potentially create one of Texas’ leading public research universities.
“Together, we’re building something extraordinary — a university that will remain standing as a beacon of knowledge, strength and innovation, essential to the well-being of our community, city and state,” commented President Eighmy.