Staff report
As enrollment declines and costs rise, Green Mountain College in Poultney announced Wednesday it will close this spring after 185 years.
President Robert Allen posted a note on the college’s website Jan. 23.
“We have not been able to assure the economic sustainability of the college,” Allen wrote. “Financial challenges are impacting liberal arts colleges throughout the country and Green Mountain College is no exception. These financial challenges, the product of major changes in demographics and costs, are the driving factors behind our decision to close at the end of this academic year.”
He said the decision by the Green Mountain College board comes after a “tireless pursuit” of other options to remain open.
Allen said the board is working closely with the New England Commission of Higher Education to formalize agreements with other colleges so students can complete their degrees.
Castleton University quickly announced Wednesday that it would take Green Mountain College students.
“It is our intention to help as many students as possible fulfill their goals and complete their degree requirements without leaving Vermont,” said Castleton University President Dr. Karen M. Scolforo in a statement. “We are saddened to see Green Mountain College close its doors and our hearts go out to all of the impacted faculty, staff, and students. By making this opportunity affordable and accessible for the students, we can help them remain on track and offer a measure of hope.”
Read more in next week’s Mountain Times.
