The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s chancellor recommended eliminating four academic programs to close a structural deficit, trimming roughly $6.7 million and dozens of full-time positions—two fewer program cuts than earlier proposed but still sparking faculty concern over evaluation metrics and timelines. In Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott ordered a financial investigation of Texas Southern University after a state audit flagged millions in questionable invoices and late financial statements. State leaders warned they may freeze funding as auditors probe procurement and contracting controls. The twin developments show how fiscal stress is driving aggressive, sometimes politically charged, interventions across public higher education systems; regents and state officials now face decisions that affect academic offerings, federal compliance and community trust.