Birmingham-Southern College Closure Due to Lack of State Loan – The New York Times

Last Updated on March 27, 2024 by Robert C. Hoopes

Birmingham-Southern College to Close After Failed Loan Attempt

Birmingham-Southern College, a historic liberal arts school in Alabama, has announced its closure at the end of May after unsuccessful attempts to secure a much-needed loan. The decision was made by the board of trustees, who unanimously voted to shut down the institution, marking the end of its nearly 170-year history.

Chairman Rev. Keith D. Thompson expressed sadness over the closure, calling it a tragic day for the college, its community, and the state of Alabama. Birmingham-Southern College has been grappling with financial troubles for years, further exacerbated by the economic downturn of 2009 and the recent impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

The school’s hopes for survival were dashed after failing to secure a new loan program that could have provided up to $30 million from the state. The closure will not only impact the students and staff of the college but also have far-reaching effects on the neighborhoods surrounding the campus and the state as a whole.

The loss of Birmingham-Southern College will leave a void in the community and further highlight the challenges faced by small private colleges in the current economic climate. It serves as a reminder of the financial pressures many educational institutions are facing, especially in the wake of the ongoing pandemic.