Jeff Yass, co-founder of Susquehanna International Group, is once again making headlines, this time in higher education, writes Jessica Priest for The Texas Tribune.
The Bala Cynwyd billionaire donated $100 million to the University of Austin. The fledgling private institution was founded by critics of mainstream academia who argue that universities have stifled free speech and merit-based learning.
The university announced the gift last month without naming the donor. They later confirmed Yass as the benefactor. His contribution permanently funds tuition-free education for students and launches a $300 million endowment campaign to sustain the model.
“Loved the idea of starting a ‘free speech’ school,” Yass said, adding that his only condition was that the university never accept government funding. The gift aligns with his long-standing advocacy for school choice. Yass has invested heavily in expanding private-school vouchers and donated millions to Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s education initiatives.
The University of Austin, founded in 2021, welcomed its first undergraduate class in 2024 and now enrolls about 150 students. It plans to remain small, tuition-free, and supported entirely by philanthropy.
For Montgomery County’s business community, Yass’ latest move underscores how local wealth continues to shape national education debates.
To learn more about Jeff Yass’ contribution to the University of Austin, visit The Texas Tribune.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on MONTCO.Today in November 2025.
