Why the Closure of Siena Heights University Affects Us All: A Heartfelt Reflection

The news that Siena Heights University will close next year after 105 years felt like a punch to the gut. It reminded me of the fall of 2005 when I helped my son, Cameron, move into his dorm. He was fresh out of high school, ready to take on the world as a pole vaulter on the track team. I remember the excitement mixed with nervousness as we met his roommates, each equally eager about their new journey.

When spring came, I returned to pick him up for summer break. The dorm room was a total mess—a mix of pizza boxes and cans of Mountain Dew. But you could tell they had a blast. It brought back fond memories of those busy college days.

Cameron graduated with a business degree four years later. He achieved a lot as a pole vaulter, even qualifying for national competitions. He remains one of the top performers at Siena Heights—a school with a proud athletic history.

Now, with the announcement of the university’s closure, my heart aches. It’s not just about old memories; it’s about the loss of a place filled with laughter, friendships, and important life lessons. I know I’m not alone; current students, professors, and staff must be feeling even more heartbroken. When I spoke to Cameron about it, he said he felt terrible for the great teachers who shaped his experience there.

The university cites financial struggles as the reason for closing. It’s a harsh reality many institutions face today. In a broader context, fewer students see college as a necessity. Reports show that enrollment in U.S. colleges has dropped by over 15% since 2019. As pressure mounts, we’re likely to witness even more closures.

This isn’t just a Siena Heights problem. Many Michigan colleges have faced similar fates. Marygrove College shut its doors in 2019 after 92 years, highlighting a growing trend in higher education. Schools struggle to adapt to changing demands while competing for fewer students.

As a parent, it’s disheartening to think that there won’t be future generations experiencing the same thrills, challenges, and growth that my son did. The dorms that once buzzed with energy will now stand empty, like memories trapped in time.

At home, I hang a small pennant for each college my kids graduate from. I have one for my daughter Amelia and will soon add one for Lottie, who is about to graduate from Michigan State. The pennant for Siena Heights, though, will always hold special significance. It’s a reminder of Cameron’s joyful experience and all the friendships he built.

While the university may close, the memories and lessons will endure. Siena Heights will always be part of our lives. Saints forever.



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