Northland College in Ashland has announced that it will remain open after facing a financial crisis that threatened its closure. The college needed to raise $12 million by April 3 to continue operations, but fell short, prompting a last-minute effort to restructure and raise funds. Thanks to a collaborative effort with faculty and staff, as well as generous donor gifts, the college was able to secure around $1.5 million and retool its curriculum to ensure sustainability.
The Board of Trustees Chair, Ted Bristol, expressed his pleasure at finding a sustainable path forward for the college. Associate Professor Angela Stroud highlighted the importance of Northland College remaining open for students, faculty, staff, and the entire region. The college will be reducing its enrollment to around 400 students and faculty to 29, focusing on eight majors that align with its mission.
The changes are expected to result in significant savings for the college, which has been operating at a loss since 2016. Declining enrollment and rising costs have put pressure on the institution, leading to the need for restructuring. Despite the challenges, Northland College is determined to uphold its mission and continue serving the community.
While the future remains uncertain, the college’s decision to remain open has brought relief to many. Students, alumni, and supporters have rallied to support the institution, emphasizing the importance of higher education in the Ashland area. With a renewed focus on sustainability and financial stability, Northland College is poised to overcome its challenges and thrive for years to come.