St. Andrews University announced Friday the academic institution would cease operations at the conclusion of the current semester. The final day of campus operations is scheduled for May 5, “unless otherwise needed to support a smooth and compassionate transition,” according to a statement shared on social media. “This decision, as resolved by the Board of Trustees, comes after extensive financial analysis, strategic review and exhaustive recovery efforts.”
The university’s main campus is located in Laurinburg. In 1991, St. Andrews expanded its course offerings to Sandhills Community College in efforts to accommodate the needs of working professionals, stay-at-home parents, or any individual not seeking the ‘traditional’ college experience.
“We are conveying this news with a shared commitment to transparency, support and integrity,” the release further stated. “For many years, St. Andrews has worked diligently to balance affordability, student experience, and academic quality. Despite these efforts and the steadfast dedication of its faculty, staff, students and alumni, the financial realities of maintaining operations in Laurinburg have become unsustainable.”
St. Andrews University is a branch campus of Webber International University.
“We explored every viable path forward,” said Dr. Nelson Marquez, president and CEO for Webber International University. “But the persistent financial and enrollment challenges facing St. Andrews could no longer be mitigated through internal solutions alone. This was a deeply painful but necessary decision.”
Transition plans are already underway to ensure continuity for students and support for faculty and staff:
• Teach-out agreements are being established with accredited institutions to allow students to complete their degrees.
• Advising and transfer assistance will be available to all currently enrolled students.
• Faculty and staff will receive personalized transition guidance, including employment resources and benefit counseling.
• Institutional records, archives, and cultural assets — including those housed in the Scottish Heritage Center — will be preserved.
Further communications will be shared in the days ahead, and community members are encouraged to visit www.sa.edu/closure for the most up-to-date information.
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