Full Breakdown
Trinity Christian College to Close After 66 Years
11/4/2025, 8:17:42 PM
Announcement of Closure
Trinity Christian College, located in Palos Heights, Illinois, will permanently close its doors at the end of the 2025-2026 academic year, following a decision made by the board of trustees. The final commencement ceremony is scheduled for May 8, 2026. This closure marks the end of a 66-year legacy of Christian higher education in the southwest suburbs of Chicago.
Reasons for Closure
The decision to close the college stems from a combination of significant financial challenges. Key factors include:
1. Post-COVID financial losses that severely impacted the institution's financial stability.
2. Persistent operating deficits that drained resources over the years.
3. A decline in student enrollment, which reduced tuition revenue.
4. Increased competition for students from other educational institutions.
5. Shifting donor priorities that diminished philanthropic support.
Despite efforts to adjust its growth model and eliminate deficits, the board concluded that there was no sustainable path forward for the college.
Support for Students and Staff
Acting President Jeanine Mozie expressed deep regret over the closure, emphasizing the college's commitment to supporting its community during this transition. Trinity will provide resources to help students complete their academic programs or transition to other institutions. For students who are not yet eligible to graduate, the college will offer:
- Teach-out programs to facilitate degree completion.
- Transfer opportunities to other regional Christian colleges, ensuring that students can graduate on time without disruption.
Faculty and staff will also receive assistance in securing new employment opportunities, acknowledging the impact of the closure on their careers and livelihoods.
Legacy and Community Impact
Founded in 1959, Trinity Christian College has educated thousands of students and offered over 70 academic programs, including bachelor's, master's, and adult degree completion courses. The college has been recognized for its educational excellence, achieving a 98% graduate placement rate and being ranked among the Top Regional Colleges in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report.
The closure of Trinity Christian College reflects broader trends affecting small private colleges across the United States, particularly those with religious affiliations. As demographic shifts and changing attitudes toward higher education continue to reshape the landscape, many institutions face similar challenges.
Official Statements
In a statement, Mozie said, “Our deepest commitment in this season is to care for our people, particularly our students, faculty, and staff, as we mourn this ending.” She also noted the importance of celebrating the college's legacy with alumni, donors, and the community throughout the final academic year.
Conclusion
The closure of Trinity Christian College signifies not only the end of an educational institution but also the loss of a community anchor that has contributed to the local economy and cultural landscape for over six decades. As the college prepares for its final year, it remains dedicated to supporting its students and staff during this transition, ensuring that the impact of its mission continues to resonate in the lives of its alumni and the broader community.
