Although I was appointed interim president of the College just this morning, my first obligation to our community is to share further details related to the crushing news that Northland College will permanently close at the end of this academic year. I understand that time is of the essence.
As we know, the College’s capacity to finance itself has been in jeopardy for some time. We nearly closed last spring, saved by a generous surge of more than one thousand donations and an adjustment of our academic offerings. We all hoped, and most of us believed, that these substantial modifications could sustain a smaller, but still mighty Northland that stayed true to its liberal arts missions of environmentalism, sustainability, and educational innovation.
My immediate concern today is to address the impact of this closure on Northland’s students. All ongoing coursework will be delivered, and both May Term and Commencement will take place as scheduled. Each student will be paired with an academic advisor to guide them through options to complete their degrees, such as teach-out agreements with cooperating institutions, as well as transfer to other colleges. Financial aid advisors will help students navigate next steps, and athletic coaches will advise and guide athletes.
More answers to your questions will be provided as soon as possible in the coming days. We will post updates and information soon on the Northland website.
I know we all share great sorrow about this outcome. In the administration, we, too, are heartbroken. And we mourn with you the loss of a truly unique place and culture that helped so many find their callings amid the stunning beauty of our forested, lakeside campus. May the spirit of Northland live long in the hearts of us all.
Barb Lundberg
Interim President of Northland College
