13-05-2025
CBU to partner with university in IL to boost academic success
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Christian Brothers University announced Tuesday that they are exploring a formal partnership with a university in Illinois.
According to a CBU news release, they announced a Letter of Intent for a formal partnership with Lewis University, a fellow Catholic and Lasallian institution located in Illinois.
They say the LOI marks the beginning of a collaborative planning process, signaling a mutual intention to explore a new path ahead.
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CBU said the following in the press release:
No immediate changes to academic programs are planned, and we expect the upcoming school year to proceed as usual with our scheduled academic offerings. The LOI marks the first step in a careful, intentional and shared process.
Both institutions will begin a comprehensive evaluation to explore opportunities, address challenges, and shape a future built on their combined strengths. Forums, listening sessions, and strategic planning will help determine the most beneficial path. A decision on whether to proceed with a full agreement is expected this coming fall.
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They say the aim is to align academic programs with workforce needs and adopt a financially sustainable model,' said CBU.
CBU says the following would help their students:
Offering new high-demand programs in aviation, business, engineering, healthcare, and technology.
Creating stronger pathways for commuters, adult learners, and transfer, international, traditional, and graduate students.
Growing online and hybrid course offerings to increase accessibility and flexibility for traditional and non-traditional students.
Extending the reach of both CBU and Lewis University into new markets through academic innovation.
They say the partnership will help elevate both institutions' ability to meet regional and national needs.
'The Board of Trustees fully supports this careful evaluation process and remains focused on ensuring the best long-term outcome for CBU and its stakeholders,' said Emily Greer, CBU Board of Trustees Chair. 'We believe this step holds great promise for CBU's future, and we are committed to making thoughtful, mission-driven decisions every step of the way.'
Lewis University is located in Romeoville, Illinois, which is 35 miles southwest of Chicago. The university serves nearly 8,000 students with 80 undergraduate majors, over 35 graduate programs, and a Catholic and Lasallian mission.
In October 2023, WREG reported cuts were made at Christian Brothers due to a $7 million deficit.
In December 2024, an accreditation board voted to keep Christian Brothers on continued probation for another 12 months under close scrutiny. The university was first placed on probation in December 2023.
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