A recent wave of concern for the former and the members of the community – as well as several important financial commitments – have given the hope that the University of Limestone could put on the needle and remain open.
But it shouldn't be.
The university's board of directors met for several hours on Tuesday and announced that prices in person and online would be interrupted after the current academic year.
This panel welcomes visitors at the front of the Limetone University campus.
“Words cannot fully express the pain we feel in front of sharing this news,” said President Nathan Copeland in a press release. “Our students, former students, teachers, staff and supporters fought tirelessly to save this historic institution. Although the result is not what we hoped, we are eternally grateful for passion, loyalty and prayers of our holy family. ”
Two weeks ago, Copeland announced to students and staff that Limetone faced a budget deficit of $ 6 million that could lead to its closure.
On April 22, the board of directors met and referred a final decision concerning the fate of the university. During last week, more than $ 2 million was collected thanks to the “Ensemble for limestone” campaign.
It was not enough.
“Despite exhaustive efforts to ensure the necessary funding to continue our operations, we have reached the difficult conclusion that the University of Limestone was unable to obtain the funding necessary to maintain its operations,” said chairman of the board of directors Randall Richardson.
Limetone was founded in 1845. It was the first college to a South Carolina sex in the service of women.
About 1,000 students are currently taking lessons on campus. 750 others take online lessons.
The university employs nearly 500 teachers and staff.
Copeland estimates that Limetone has a local economic impact of $ 150 million each year.
The Curtis administration building is located in the center of the Historical Gaffney Campus at the University of Limetone.
Suzanne Lindley, dean of the College of Health and Sciences, was interviewed by the Herald-Journal when she saw the news of Yik Yak, a social media platform addressed to student communities.
“Well, rest in peace, limestone,” she said.
Lindley had hoped for a different result, but she was ready at worst.
“I shed my tears after the announcement the first time (which the university could close),” she said. “I feel a feeling of closure if this is true.”
Lindley said she and her colleagues worked hard to place students in programs from other colleges and universities.
Graduation ceremonies will take place on May 3 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
“Our limestone spirit will continue through the life of our students and the elders who will pursue him in the world,” said Richardson in the press release. “Although our doors can close, the impact of the University of Limestone will live.”
This article originally appeared on Herald-Journal: The Board of Directors of Limetone University votes to close the campus and online programs
