Breaking News: Limestone University Board Decides to Close Historic 179-Year-Old College in Gaffney

Limestone University is set to hold its last graduation ceremony this Saturday, marking the end of its 180-year history in Gaffney, South Carolina. The Board of Trustees made the heartbreaking decision to close due to severe financial challenges.

Chairman Randall Richardson stated, “Despite our best efforts to secure funding, we have concluded that we simply cannot sustain operations.” In April, the university revealed a staggering $30 million budget shortfall and needed to raise $6 million to survive. Although initial grassroots efforts managed to gather about $2.1 million from nearly 200 donors, rising costs and declining enrollment made recovery impossible.

President Dr. Nathan Copeland expressed deep sorrow over the situation. “Our students, alumni, faculty, and supporters fought tirelessly to save this historic institution. Although we didn’t achieve our goal, we are grateful for the passion and loyalty of our community."

Founded in 1845 as South Carolina’s first all-female college, Limestone College opened its doors to male students in the early 1900s, focusing on nontraditional learners. In 2020, it became Limestone University and was the only four-year college in Cherokee County.

The university was also a haven for athletes, with about 700 out of 1,700 students participating in sports, many on scholarships. News of the potential closure has left many student-athletes anxious about their futures. Emma Greenier, a volleyball player, shared her fears: “All of us are very scared. We have no idea what to do.”

Soccer player Annabelle Dougherty echoed those sentiments, highlighting the emotional toll of leaving: “We made friends here from all over the world. Saying goodbye is hard.”

The final commencement ceremonies will take place at Fullerton Auditorium at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 3.

Expert Insight on Higher Education Closures

The closure of Limestone University is part of a broader trend in higher education. According to the National Student Clearinghouse, college enrollment has dropped steadily over the past decade, with a notable decline of 3.2% from 2020 to 2021. This downshift forces institutions to rethink their financial strategies.

Educational experts suggest that colleges must adapt to modern student needs, emphasizing flexible programs and online offerings to remain competitive. The stress on institutions is palpable, with some predicting further closures in the coming years.

Related Trends

Social media quickly reacted to the news, with many expressing sorrow and sharing memories. Hashtags like #SaveLimestone trended as alumni and students shared their experiences. The emotional weight of losing such a historic institution resonates deeply within the community.

As Limestone closes its doors, it serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for innovation in education, ensuring that future generations can thrive. For more insights on education and funding trends, visit The Chronicle of Higher Education.

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