The decision was made following an all-encompassing vote carried out by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission.
The decision was made following an all-encompassing vote carried out by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission.
Alderson Broaddus University, a revered private Baptist institution situated in Philippi, West Virginia, is set to cease operations due to ongoing financial challenges.
The decision was made following an all-encompassing vote carried out by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission, an authoritative body overseeing four-year colleges and universities within the state, the Erudera reported.
The verdict effectively terminates Alderson Broaddus University’s authorization to confer degrees, signaling a major shift in the educational landscape.
The anticipated enactment date for the decision is on December 31 this year.
In an official statement, the commission said the unanimous vote was prompted by conclusive evidence that the financial condition of Alderson Broaddus University has hindered its ability to provide a stable, effective, and secure learning environment for the student body.
The predicament has been a persistent issue for Alderson Broaddus University for several years, as indicated by tax records.
The institution reported liabilities exceeding $39 million last year. In 2020, it incurred a net loss of $904,424.
Sarah Armstrong Tucker, chancellor of higher education in West Virginia, weighed in on the decision, stating that their foremost priority is ensuring that the students’ educational journey continues seamlessly.
Tucker acknowledged the collaborative efforts of other colleges and universities in the state that have demonstrated an eagerness to aid affected students in transferring and completing their degrees.
Following the vote, the university is set to undertake a series of actions. Such measures include discontinuing the admission and enrollment of new students in the upcoming fall semester. Except for seniors scheduled to graduate at the end of the term, all other students will no longer be permitted to return to campus this fall.
The commission outlined conditions that the university must meet, including developing and implementing strategies for online teaching-out or facilitating the transfer of enrolled students; promptly halting all athletic and extracurricular activities; disseminating notifications to enrolled students regarding the revocation of authorization, its repercussions, available support services, and necessary actions to facilitate transfers or graduation from an alternative institution; ensuring advisors are accessible for virtual or in-person consultations with students; offering aid for acquiring transcripts and managing financial aid records; conferring degrees and certificates to students who have met program requirements; and providing compensation to students, excluding those opting to return in the fall to finalize their program.
Meanwhile, a number of universities in West Virginia have rallied to support Alderson Broaddus University students.
West Virginia Wesleyan College pledged a “fast and free priority application” along with guaranteed housing and financial assistance.
In a parallel effort, Fairmont State University introduced the Battler Transfer Scholarship to aid in the seamless transition of Alderson Broaddus students.
With a history spanning 150 years, Alderson Broaddus University has offered a range of bachelor’s, master’s, associate, and combined degree programs. As of the fall semester of 2021, the university’s undergraduate enrollment totaled 750.
