University of Findlay and Bluffton University Merger Will Not Proceed
FINDLAY, Ohio—University of Findlay Board of Trustees voted on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025, not to proceed with the joint application to the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) for merger approval and to terminate the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on March 19, 2024. This decision comes after nearly a year of collaboration and preparation for the proposed merger.
Since signing the MOU, Findlay and Bluffton’s leadership have been completing the necessary due diligence toward pursuing a merger. The institutions cite length of time to merge and merger expenses as deterrents.
“Some higher education organizations may find mergers the best path forward,” said Dr. Katherine Fell, president of University of Findlay. “For us, due diligence in this case has demonstrated that partnering in key ways is a better solution.”
A key element of the merger was maintaining sports teams at two different NCAA divisions. However, regulations necessitate separate processes for athletic financial aid distribution and prohibit the sharing of resources and sports facilities, resulting in fewer synergies in those areas than originally anticipated.
University of Findlay will continue to explore strategic partnerships that help fulfill its mission of equipping students for meaningful lives and productive careers.
According to Fell, the merger work has resulted in an invaluable reflective process for both campuses through the examination of strengths, areas for growth, and capacity to innovate and change within the evolving landscape of higher education. She stated, “These lessons will help each university move forward in important ways as we continue to best serve our current and future students.”
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About University of Findlay:
Established in 1882 through a partnership between the Churches of God, General Conference and the city of Findlay, University of Findlay is known for excellence in its science, health professions, animal science and equestrian studies programs, but also for cultivating the next generation of business leaders, educators and innovative thinkers through a dedication to experiential learning in and outside of the classroom. With a mission to equip students for meaningful lives and productive careers, University of Findlay offers more than 88 bachelor’s degrees, 11 master’s degrees, and five doctorate-level degree programs. The 403-acre campus includes an Animal Science and Western Equestrian Riding Complex, English Equestrian Riding Farm, All Hazards Training Center and a 55-acre wetland to offer hands-on learning opportunities for all students. A proud member of the NCAA Division II Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC), University of Findlay students compete as the Oilers on 22 men’s and women’s teams.
About Bluffton University:
Founded in 1899 and affiliated with Mennonite Church USA, Bluffton’s legacy is expressed in its enduring values of discovery, community, respect and service which are woven into the academic program and campus community. Located on a 65-acre residential campus in northwest Ohio and lined with abundant natural beauty, Bluffton University offers more than 90 majors, minors and interdisciplinary programs for undergraduate students to explore as well as graduate programs in business administration (MBA), education (MAEd), nutrition and dietetics (MND), organizational management (MAOM) and social work (MSW). Student-athletes compete as the Beavers through 18 NCAA DIII athletic teams and a co-ed esports team.
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