St. Andrews University announced via social media Friday that it would cease operations at the conclusion of the Spring 2025 semester.
File photo
Financial woes dubbed the cause of closure
LAURINBURG — St. Andrews University announced via social media Friday that it would cease operations at the conclusion of the Spring 2025 semester.
“It is with deep regret that we announce that St. Andrews University, a branch campus of Webber International University, will cease operations at the conclusion of the Spring 2025 semester,” the post read. “The final day of campus operations is scheduled for May 5, 2025, unless otherwise needed to support a smooth and compassionate transition.”
The post said the decision comes by way of Webber International University’s board of trustees, following an “extensive financial analysis, strategic review and exhaustive recovery efforts.”
“We are conveying this news with a shared commitment to transparency, support, and integrity,” the statement continued.
The Border Belt Independent and The Assembly reported that faculty were first alerted that the university was in dire straits when they received incomplete paychecks earlier this month, getting paid about 85% of what they were owed, Malik acknowledged in the meeting. Malik said the university did not have the funding to meet its payroll obligations for the month to the school’s employees.
The School said transition plans are 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.
Nelson Marquez, President and CEO for Webber International University, said the school explored “every viable path forward.”
“But the persistent financial and enrollment challenges facing St. Andrews could no longer be mitigated through internal solutions alone,” Marquez said. “This was a deeply painful but necessary decision.”
SAU stated that further communications will be shared in the days ahead. Community members were encouraged to visit www.sa.edu/closure for the most up-to-date information.
In an email addressed to SAU students, faculty and staff at 12:14 p.m. on Friday, St. Andrews University President Tarun Malik wrote a statement which read in part:
“For years, we have worked tirelessly to balance affordability, exceptional student experience, and high-quality education. That commitment has guided our efforts, even as we faced growing financial and enrollment pressures. Despite the unwavering dedication of our faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters — and after pursuing every viable option — it has become clear that we can no longer sustain the operations of the Laurinburg campus.
“I recognize the pain and uncertainty this decision brings to our community. We are working closely with our partners to ensure that students receive the support and guidance they need to complete their educational goals through teach-out agreements or structured transfer opportunities. Faculty and staff will be provided with transition resources, employment assistance, and benefit-related guidance.
“Though this chapter in the life of St. Andrews is coming to an end, the values we’ve upheld — inclusion, intellectual pursuit, service, and resilience — remain alive in each of you. We are developing plans to honor our legacy, preserve institutional records and cultural assets, and support our community throughout this period.”
