The Unexpected Closure of Lourdes University: A Community Left Struggling
Sylvania, Ohio (WTVG) — The unexpected announcement of Lourdes University's closure at the end of the academic year has left students in a state of turmoil. The news came as a shock to many, with one student expressing the sentiment that losing Lourdes means losing a sense of home.
A senior student, whose twin sister also attends the university, shared her reaction: 'My twin sister goes here as well. We are in our last semester, and she was calling and texting me, flooding my phone with the news. I thought it was a joke at first, but she confirmed it wasn't.'
The close-knit community and family-like atmosphere of Lourdes were cited as key reasons for students' choice. One student explained, 'It's so family-based. Everyone is so close. It's a small school where you know everyone. I wanted a small, intimate environment, and Lourdes provided that. When we heard the news, it felt like losing home.'
Another student echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the impact of the closure on their last two years of college. 'It feels like home, and I've made a lot of friends. I wish the school could stay open. Now, I have to transfer to a different, larger university, which is stressful.'
The university's board cited declining enrollment and rising costs as the reasons for the sudden decision. Students are now grappling with the challenges of transferring credits, financial aid, and completing their degrees. One student expressed the urgency of the situation, stating, 'We have only three months left in the semester, and it's not enough time for many to figure out their next steps. On top of that, I have an EMS dog, which adds to the complexity.'
The university's president has stepped down, and a new leader will oversee the closure. The board promises a transition plan, but for now, students are left with unanswered questions and a sense of uncertainty.
