The two colleges are merging into one institution with two campuses to avert future financial problems. State colleges Chancellor Jeb Spaulding said the unification will save money and attract more students.
As of July 1, 2018, each campus will be known as either Northern Vermont University-Lyndon or Northern Vermont University-Johnson, according to a VSCS news release. Spaulding floated the name, with the support of both colleges’ presidents, based on community input and advice from higher education marketing experts.
Students seeking to begin their studies in fall 2018 or later will apply for admission under the new name. The board approved the name change Wednesday to ensure that marketing materials are updated by next summer when the recruitment cycle for 2018-19 begins.
Johnson State President Elaine Collins is heading a transition team that will combine some academic programs and resources. Collins eventually will preside over Northern Vermont University.
Vermont State Colleges board member Martha O’Connor said in a statement that unification “will retain our campuses and open new doors of opportunity for students in a larger, stronger university.”
In September, the board voted to merge the two colleges as a single accredited entity with two campuses.
The two colleges together enroll 3,000 students a year. Both colleges have been nationally recognized: Johnson State for its liberal arts program and Lyndon for its broadcast journalism meteorology programs.
Spaulding said the unification will give students access to new academic opportunities and a larger and more diverse faculty.
