Hampshire College Announces Closure Amid Financial Struggles

Hampshire College, located in Amherst, Massachusetts, has announced it will close after the fall semester due to ongoing financial difficulties. The decision, made by the Board of Trustees, was attributed to "increasingly complex" financial pressures that the institution has faced for several years. President Jennifer Chrisler stated that efforts to boost enrollment, refinance debt, and generate new revenue through land sales have not been successful. The college's statement emphasized that it no longer possesses the resources necessary to maintain full operations and meet regulatory obligations.

Hampshire College, which counts filmmaker Ken Burns among its alumni, is closing later this year

Founded in 1965, Hampshire College has struggled with enrollment and financial sustainability, a trend seen across many small, private colleges in New England and nationwide. The institution launched a $60 million fundraising campaign in 2020, which garnered significant donations, including a $5 million gift in honor of alumnus Ken Burns. However, these efforts were insufficient to counteract the broader decline in college enrollment, exacerbated by demographic shifts and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to fewer high school graduates pursuing higher education.

Hampshire College, which counts filmmaker Ken Burns among its alumni, is closing later this year

The closure of Hampshire College has sparked criticism regarding its educational approach. Some commentators argue that the college's progressive curriculum and emphasis on narrative evaluations over traditional grading have contributed to its decline. Critics assert that the institution's focus on a "woke" agenda has alienated potential students and left graduates with limited marketable skills. This perspective highlights a broader concern about the state of higher education, where confidence in academic institutions is reportedly at a record low.

Jonathan Turley

In an official statement, President Chrisler described the closure as a "painful moment" for the Hampshire community, emphasizing the college's commitment to supporting students in completing their studies and assisting faculty and staff during the transition. The Board of Trustees reiterated that the decision was made after exploring all possible alternatives, reflecting the difficult realities faced by many small colleges in the current educational landscape.

Hampshire College, which counts filmmaker Ken Burns among its alumni, is closing later this year

The timing of the closure is designed to allow current undergraduates to complete their education at Hampshire or transfer to partner institutions. This approach aims to minimize disruption for students and provide them with options as they navigate their academic futures.

Hampshire College, which counts filmmaker Ken Burns among its alumni, is closing later this year

While the closure of Hampshire College has been confirmed, there are differing opinions on the reasons behind its financial struggles. Some sources emphasize the impact of demographic changes and competition among colleges, while others focus on the institution's educational philosophy and its perceived disconnect from market demands. This divergence highlights the complexity of the challenges facing higher education today.

Jonathan Turley

“President Jenn Chrisler stated in an announcement that “The College no longer has the resources to sustain full operations and meet our regulatory responsibilities.” — Jennifer Chrisler, President of Hampshire College

Jonathan Turley

“Many families are unwilling to be the captive audience of an institution that maintains an orthodoxy taught almost exclusively by liberal faculty.” — Jonathan Turley, Legal Scholar and Commentator

Jonathan Turley