Cardinal Stritch University to close effective May 22

MILWAUKEE COUNTY, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The president of Cardinal Stritch University announced Monday that the university will be closing, effective May 22. 

In a video message, Dr. Dan Scholz said, in part:

"I would prefer that I shared good news with you, but my message is profoundly sad. I am here to report that the Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi have accepted the recommendation of the University's Board of Trustees to suspend and cancel all educational services, activities and programs, effective May 22, 2023 and begin the winddown process of the university operations after the current spring semester."

Dr. Scholz attributed the closure to "fiscal realities, downward enrollment trends, the pandemic, the need for more resources and the mounting operational and facility challenges."

"We are all devastated by this development, but after examining all options, this decision was necessary," he said. "In the end, it was determined that we could no longer continue to provide the quality educational experiences our students rightly deserve."

For current students enrolled at the university, Dr. Scholz says Cardinal Stritch is finalizing partnerships with other local colleges for students to be able to continue their studies. He added the university will also work with new students who have not yet enrolled to help them transition to another school.

The university will still celebrate their last commencement on May 21 at the Wisconsin Center.

During his announcement, Dr. Scholz also shared a message to the faculty and staff.

"We made a difference in the lives of our students and throughout our community," he said. "For that, I will always be grateful."

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