The email below was sent to alumni on Friday, March 27, 2020:

Dear Alumni,

I write today to share very sad news: The Board of Trustees of MacMurray College has voted unanimously to close the college at the end of the semester in May.

To view the video announcement, please visit mac.edu/closure.

Although your recent gifts helped significantly with cash flow, the Board ultimately determined that your alma mater had no viable financial path forward amid declining enrollments, rising competitive costs, and an insufficient endowment.

The Board spent more than a year exploring financial scenarios and potential new sources for capital. A new strategic plan was developed to broaden MacMurray’s professional degree programs and reach more non-traditional students, but the significant amount of capital required to fund it could not be secured.

Although the current pandemic and the resulting economic disruption further complicated MacMurray’s financial condition, they were not the principal reasons for the Board’s decision to close.

Together with my team, we are working to ensure seamless transitions for our 527 students to one of seven nearby colleges and universities this fall.

While it is my hope to provide one more opportunity for you to gather and celebrate your Highlander legacy, Illinois’ Stay At Home Order has resulted in our campus being closed. Students moved back home earlier this month, and are being taught online by our dedicated faculty and staff. MacMurray has not made a decision on commencement, which is scheduled for May 9, but will do so as soon as possible and will be guided by orders from state authorities regarding public health and public gatherings.

I encourage you to visit the speical website, mac.edu/closure for answers to alumni-specific questions and all ongoing updates.

It is a privilege to steward MacMurray as it completes its mission.

With sympathy and encouragement,

Beverly E. Rodgers, PhD
President