Mergers and consolidations are important tactics that many colleges should consider in the face of significant declines in enrollment, massive excess capacity and the coming enrollment cliff beginning in 2025, when the college-age population is expected to dramatically drop.
Unfortunately, too many institutions seek the option too late, when their financial and enrollment position has dwindled beyond salvage and their value to a prospective partner is limited at best.
It is critical that governing boards and executive leaders dispassionately and objectively understand the coming higher education landscape and how it may impact their institution. They need to begin to seek partners earlier than they think is warranted.
