ALLEN/HANCOCK COUNTY, OHIO (WLIO) - The University of Findlay announced that its merger with Bluffton University is no longer proceeding.
In two separate media releases, Bluffton and Findlay stated that the memorandum of understanding has been terminated after Findlay's Board of Trustees voted against moving forward with the merger. The two institutions had been working on the merger for the past year and were expected to submit an application to merge later this year.
Both schools cited the lengthy process, and the significant costs associated with the merger as key factors in their decision. Additionally, maintaining two separate athletic programs in different NCAA divisions would have posed significant challenges.
Both schools cited the lengthy process, and the significant costs associated with the merger as key factors in their decision.
Despite the decision to terminate the merger, both universities called the work done during the process an "invaluable resource" for them moving forward.
MEDIA RELEASE FROM BLUFFTON UNIVERSITY ON MERGER ENDING
BLUFFTON, Ohio — Bluffton University was informed that the University of Findlay Board of Trustees voted on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025, not to proceed with the joint application to the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) for merger approval and to terminate the Memorandum of Understanding signed on March 19, 2024. This decision comes after nearly a year of collaboration and preparation for the proposed merger.
The merger work has resulted in an invaluable reflective process for both campuses as we have examined our strengths, areas for growth and capacity to change. The due diligence of the past year will help each university move forward in important ways.
“While the outcome of this vote was not within Bluffton University’s control, we remain confident, optimistic and steadfast in our commitment to the future of our institution,” said Cheryl Hacker, Bluffton University Board of Trustees Chair. “Bluffton University continues to be financially stable, strategically independent, and well-prepared for the future. This decision does not diminish our core mission ‘to prepare students for life as well as vocation…and ultimately for the purposes of God’s universal kingdom.’”
The university, under the new leadership of Acting President Dr. J. Alexander Sider, remains focused on continuous improvement, student-centered initiatives, and collaboration both within and outside the institution to build a sustainable, forward-looking future. Bluffton is committed to creating new opportunities for students and forging meaningful partnerships that align with its mission and values, and looks forward to strengthening its position as a leader in higher education.
"We will continue to embrace the strengths that have made Bluffton University a place where students thrive—innovative programs, a caring community, and a shared commitment to excellence,” said Hacker. “As we pivot in a new direction, we will use this opportunity to evolve in ways that enhance the lives of our students, faculty, and staff.”
Bluffton University will provide additional updates as necessary and will continue to explore strategic partnerships that support the long-term goals of the institution and the students it serves.
“Today, Bluffton stands as a unified institution ready to capitalize on new opportunities,” said Hacker. “Though we had a moment of disappointment, our commitment to academic excellence and community impact remains our driving force. We have proven our willingness to make bold moves and remain excited for what the future holds as we look forward for our current and future students.”
To submit questions about this announcement to Bluffton University, please visit: https://forms.office.com/r/eVYrGJG5xN
MEDIA RELEASE FROM UNIVERSITY OF FINDLAY ON MERGER ENDING
FINDLAY, Ohio—University of Findlay Board of Trustees voted on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025, not to proceed with the joint application to the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) for merger approval and to terminate the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on March 19, 2024. This decision comes after nearly a year of collaboration and preparation for the proposed merger.
Since signing the MOU, Findlay and Bluffton’s leadership have been completing the necessary due diligence toward pursuing a merger. The institutions cite length of time to merge and merger expenses as deterrents.
“Some higher education organizations may find mergers the best path forward,” said Dr. Katherine Fell, president of University of Findlay. “For us, due diligence in this case has demonstrated that partnering in key ways is a better solution.”
A key element of the merger was maintaining sports teams at two different NCAA divisions. However, regulations necessitate separate processes for athletic financial aid distribution and prohibit the sharing of resources and sports facilities, resulting in fewer synergies in those areas than originally anticipated.
University of Findlay will continue to explore strategic partnerships that help fulfill its mission of equipping students for meaningful lives and productive careers.
According to Fell, the merger work has resulted in an invaluable reflective process for both campuses through the examination of strengths, areas for growth, and capacity to innovate and change within the evolving landscape of higher education. She stated, “These lessons will help each university move forward in important ways as we continue to best serve our current and future students.”
