GAFFNEY, S.C. (FOX Carolina) – Limestone University announced on Wednesday that it is at a critical financial crossroads that could have significant impacts on the university’s future.
Limestone’s Board of Trustees said without $6 million in financial support, the institution will need to move to a fully-online model or begin the process of shutting down entirely. The university said it is facing challenges from a combination of enrollment declines, rising costs, and “long-standing structural pressures facing small, private institutions.”
“Limestone remains committed to our students and we will work directly with current students to help them identify the best path to successfully complete their educational journey,” said Randall Richardson, Chair of the Limestone University Board of Trustees. “We are reaching out separately to students with information regarding options to continue their education.”
More than 1,600 students are enrolled at Limestone University. The board will meet on April 22 to discuss next steps for the university.
A switch to an online-only model would discontinue all in-person operations and activities, including athletics. The university president said that without funding, the campus will close at the end of the spring semester and the staff will face layoffs.
Limestone said the $6 million is needed for an emergency fund to “stabilize operations and give the university the opportunity to pursue long-term solutions that preserve its on-campus identity.”
The first women’s college in South Carolina, Limestone was founded in 1845 by Baptist minister Dr. Thomas Curtis. Men were admitted as daytime commuting students in the early 1900s.
The non-denominational Christian college officially changed its name to Limestone University in 2020.
The university said it has an estimated $150 million annual economic impact on Cherokee County.
Gaffney Mayor Lyman Dawkins III released the following statement on the announcement:
“The news of Limestone University’s potential closure is devastating and would be a significant blow to our community. For nearly 180 years, Limestone has served as a cornerstone of our city educationally, economically, and culturally. Founded in 1845, It has withstood the tests of time, surviving the Civil War, the Great Depression, and many national hardships while remaining a steadfast beacon of opportunity and hope. The economic impact will be substantial. Limestone has provided countless jobs, brought in students and families who supported local businesses and served as a catalyst for growth. In our current efforts to revitalize downtown Gaffney, Limestone students have played a vital role. Their energy, involvement, and contributions have breathed life into our city and helped us build momentum for the future. The psychological and emotional toll will be equally profound. Limestone has been a point of pride, tradition, and inspiration for our residents. It has opened doors for countless local students and families. Many of them were first-generation college students and helped shape dreams into realities. As a proud alumni, I will forever love and honor Limestone University.”
Gaffney Mayor Lyman Dawkins reacts to the possible closing of his alma mater Limestone University.
A spokesperson for North Greenville University issued the following statement after the announcement:
“North Greenville University (NGU) officials are aware of recent news coming from Limestone University. The Limestone community is in our prayers as they navigate the important decisions ahead and provide care for their students, faculty, and staff. As Limestone explores its future operational status, NGU stands ready to assist as needed.”
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