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Diving overview:
- Bluffton University plans to merge with the University of Findlay by fall 2025.It is awaiting approval from the state agency and the Higher Learning Commission, a shared accreditation body.
- The private Christian institutions, both founded in the 19th century and located about 20 miles apart in northwest Ohio, will continue to operate independently until the merger is complete. They said they intend to respect the individual traditions of both campuses following the merger.
- “To remain sustainable over the next century and beyond, universities must take innovative approaches and bold actions. This merger will be both.” Merger FAQs.
Dive Insights:
The two universities said they were merging “for the sake of financial stability,” but both said they were facing financial difficulties.
Bluffton has seen a significant decline in student enrollment over the past decade, from 1,198 in the fall of 2012. Fall 2022 745According to federal data.
The University of Findlay averaged nearly 4,900 students during that period, with some fluctuations. However, according to the university's own report, the average enrollment this year was 3,500, a recent sharp decline.
“We all know that higher education is facing significant changes and challenges,” said University of Findlay President Katherine Fell. From the statement. “This era requires us to think innovatively and forward-looking.”
The boards of both universities unanimously approved the merger in February. and leaders of both institutions. announced this week It is said that the agreement was formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MOU).
Under the agreement, the University of Findlay will maintain campuses for both institutions. The universities did not specify whether the merger would lead to layoffs or staff reductions and did not immediately respond to requests for comment Thursday. . The FAQs directed employees to direct questions to department heads or program directors.
The college's athletic teams will remain in their respective NCAA divisions until approved by the association.
How Bluffton's name will be used following the merger has not yet been determined. However, FAQs about the merger state that relationships with the founding denominations of both universities, the Church of God at the University of Findlay and the Mennonite for Bluffton, will be maintained.