Fontbonne University, a small private university located in St. Louis, Missouri, has announced that it will be closing its doors in 2025. The decision comes after years of declining enrollment and financial struggles for the institution.
Fontbonne University, founded in 1923 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, has a long history of providing a liberal arts education rooted in the Catholic faith. Over the years, it has offered a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including degrees in education, nursing, business, and fine arts.
Despite its academic reputation and dedicated faculty, Fontbonne has faced challenges in recent years. Declining enrollment numbers have put a strain on the university’s finances, making it difficult to sustain operations and provide a quality education for its students. In addition, increased competition from larger universities in the area has made it difficult for Fontbonne to attract new students.
In a statement announcing the closure, Fontbonne University President Dr. Michael Griffin expressed sadness at the decision but stressed that it was necessary in order to ensure the financial stability of the institution. “While we have worked tirelessly to secure the future of Fontbonne University, the reality is that we can no longer continue to operate in a sustainable manner,” Griffin said.
The closure of Fontbonne University will undoubtedly have an impact on the St. Louis community. The university has been a valuable resource for students, faculty, and staff, as well as a contributing member of the local economy. Many will be sad to see it go.
As Fontbonne University prepares to close its doors in 2025, the administration is taking steps to ensure a smooth transition for current students, including providing assistance with transferring credits to other institutions and offering career counseling services. The university will also work to support faculty and staff members as they transition to new opportunities.
While the closure of Fontbonne University is a sad development for the St. Louis community, it serves as a reminder of the challenges facing small private colleges in today’s higher education landscape. As the university prepares to say goodbye, its legacy of academic excellence and commitment to service will undoubtedly live on in the hearts and minds of its alumni and supporters.
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