The University of Houston’s College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences circulated a three‑page memo asking faculty to affirm five statements asserting a commitment to critical thinking and to confirm they do not indoctrinate students. President Renu Khator’s office framed the measure as ensuring courses support students’ ability to form independent opinions rather than compel viewpoints. Faculty pushed back, with the campus AAUP chapter proposing a conscientious‑objector response and some professors refusing to sign. The memo was presented as part of compliance with Texas Senate Bill 37, but critics said the document risks chilling academic freedom and could lead to syllabus reviews for dissenting instructors. The episode highlights how state policy debates are reshaping internal university governance and faculty oversight.