After careful deliberation with the Board of Trustees of Lourdes University, the Sisters of St. Francis have resolved that the University will close at the end of the academic year. Like many institutions across higher education, Lourdes has faced significant and ongoing challenges related to declining enrollment, rising operational costs and a funding model that is no longer sustainable. Continuing operations beyond this academic year is financially unsustainable.

This news was shared with faculty and staff on Feb. 11 during an all-staff meeting. A townhall meeting was held Feb. 12 with students and an a virtual meeting with parents will be held.

As part of this process, the University has experienced a leadership transition. The Sisters of St. Francis have charged one of their own members to oversee the University’s closure and Dr. Bisset has graciously agreed to step down as president. The Sisters have appointed Sister Dr. Nancy Linenkugel, OSF, DM as the 13th and final President of Lourdes University. Sister Nancy has a long history in higher education administration at Xavier University and served as the former Congregational Minister for the Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania.

“The Sisters’ focus and ministry has always been on education and individual student’s successes,” said Sr. Nancy Linenkugel. “This was true when the Sisters opened Lourdes College in 1958 and it will remain true until the day our last class on this campus ends. Unfortunately, the Sisters can no longer continue to subsidize the University at the level required to sustain its operations. A Franciscan education is a relational one and we mourn with the students and faculty that this time has come.”

Lourdes University will continue to operate fully through the remainder of the academic year, including the completion of all scheduled courses, academic programming and student services. The University closure will not affect Lifelong Learning Programs or Franciscan Center events.

“Right now, our immediate priority is supporting students, faculty and staff through this transition, and ensuring they are able to complete their academic pathways with clarity, dignity and care,” Sr. Nancy said.

University leadership will be sharing additional information with students and families regarding degree completion, transfer options, academic records and individualized support. Resources and points of contact will be made available to assist students throughout the transition.

“There are several unresolved details still, and I am working with a dedicated team to ensure a smooth transition for our students as well as for our faculty,” acknowledged Sr. Nancy. “We plan to have all things in place in coming weeks and will be updating students, parents, and faculty continually.”
Lourdes has secured a commitment from the University of Toledo to serve as a teach- out partner, to ensure a smooth transition for students.

“It was with sadness that I learned of the closure of Lourdes University, a valued educational institution in our region,” said Dr. James Holloway, President of The University of Toledo. “This closure creates uncertainty for Lourdes’ students and The University of Toledo is here to support them to complete their educational journey.

All interested Lourdes students in good standing will be admitted to UToledo in a program aligned with their major and, to the fullest extent allowed by our accreditors, be supported to finish their degrees.”

Dr. Holloway continued, “While UToledo, as a state institution, cannot provide the same spiritual environment as Lourdes, we have many student communities of faith on our campus and we welcome support from the local Catholic community as well.” Speaking directly to the students of Lourdes University, Dr. Holloway said, “You have my assurance that UToledo will make every effort to assure your success. You are welcome in Rocket Nation.”

Lourdes University is working to secure additional teach-out partners as well, “We are committed to ensuring that all of our students find the best path forward to complete their degrees,” said Dr. Kate Beutel, provost and chief administrative officer atLourdes. “We are grateful for the support that the University of Toledo is providing to our students and are actively working towards other options for degree programs that are not offered by UToledo, to provide the most opportunities for a smooth continuation of our students’ educational journeys.”

A webpage is being established to house information and updates for students and parents at Lourdes.edu/closure.