Why a Texas Professor Advocates for Renaming the University of Houston to ‘George Floyd University’

University of Houston professor David McNally recently suggested an intriguing idea: rename his university to “George Floyd University” and eliminate tuition and grades. He shared these thoughts at the Socialism 2025 conference in Chicago, where he described how universities could reshape to become more community-focused.

McNally believes that Floyd, who grew up in Houston’s Third Ward, deserves this honor. He recalls the significant impact of the protests following Floyd’s death in May 2020. These events showed him how the dynamics of social power could shift dramatically when enough people come together. “For a moment, we controlled the streets,” he said, highlighting the sense of collective empowerment experienced during those protests.

At the University of Houston, McNally has been actively involved in promoting discussions about racial injustice. Courses and projects, like the Project on Race and Capitalism, emerged in response to Floyd’s death. This ongoing focus shows the university’s interest in examining systemic racism and economic disparities.

In a wider context, McNally’s proposals spark conversations about campus safety and inclusivity. He suggests replacing campus police with community-elected safety committees. This approach aims to create a safer environment for all students, echoing a growing trend in universities nationwide. A 2022 survey showed that over 60% of students favored alternatives to traditional policing on campuses, seeking more community-based solutions.

Social media reactions to McNally’s ideas have been polarized. Some people view his proposals as bold steps toward progress, while others see them as impractical or extreme. Hashtags like #GeorgeFloydUniversity have gained traction, sparking debates about race, education, and community rights.

Additionally, the university recently faced political challenges, such as the closure of its LGBTQ+ center following a state law that limits diversity initiatives. This reflects broader tensions in education regarding equity and inclusion, especially in states like Texas.

In summary, McNally’s vision for the University of Houston ties historical events to contemporary discussions on social justice. His ideas encourage a rethinking of traditional schooling and challenge how universities can serve their communities. As education continues to evolve, these discussions become ever more relevant.



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