SYLVANIA, Ohio — In a move that has stunned the local community and higher education sector, the Lourdes University Board of Trustees announced on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, that the institution will permanently cease operations at the end of the current spring semester.
The private Franciscan university, which has been a fixture in Sylvania since its founding in 1958, will officially close its doors in May 2026. The decision follows what board members described as “careful deliberation” regarding the institution’s long-term financial viability and the evolving landscape of higher education.
A Sudden End to a Decades-Old Legacy
Lourdes University, sponsored by the Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania, has served the region for nearly 70 years. Known for its strong programs in nursing, education, and social work, the university recently reported a total enrollment of approximately 964 students for the 2024-2025 academic year. Despite a 13:1 student-faculty ratio and a 127-acre suburban campus often praised for its safety and personal touch, the university could not overcome the mounting pressures facing small private colleges.
The announcement comes as a surprise to many, especially following recent positive developments. In late 2025, the university had appointed Dr. James “Chip” Weisgerber as the new Vice President for Enrollment Management and secured a $1.5 million federal grant for its TRiO Student Support Services program. Additionally, the university’s athletic programs, including the men’s basketball and bowling teams, had been seeing competitive success as recently as this month.
Impact on Students and Faculty
The closure will affect nearly 1,000 students currently enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs. University officials have stated they are working on “teach-out” agreements with neighboring institutions to ensure that students can transfer their credits and complete their degrees with minimal disruption.
“Our primary focus is supporting our students, faculty, and staff through this difficult transition,” the Board of Trustees said in a statement released Wednesday morning. Details regarding specific transfer pathways and severance packages for employees are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
The Growing Trend of College Closures
Lourdes University’s closure is reflective of a broader trend across the United States, where small, private liberal arts colleges are struggling with declining enrollment, rising operational costs, and a “demographic cliff” of fewer college-aged individuals. While Lourdes was ranked No. 124 in Regional Universities Midwest by U.S. News & World Report for 2026, the ranking was not enough to offset the financial realities leading to the shutdown.
The university will continue to host scheduled events through the end of the term, including the Spectrum of Possibilities Autism Conference slated for April, which will now serve as one of the final community gatherings on the Sylvania campus.
This is a developing story. USA Daily will provide updates as more information regarding student transfer options and the future of the 127-acre campus becomes available.