The Reports of Our Death Have been Greatly Exaggerated
Saint Joseph's College in Rensselaer, IN, has had a long and storied history, but like many institutions, it has faced challenges in recent years. A recent book, The Requiem for a College, describes the slow decline that led to the 2017 suspension of operations. However, the intent of the Trustees was not to close the College permanently but to return to operation as a model 21st-century college.
To achieve this goal, the College partnered with Dr. William J. Carroll, Hunter Global Education president, who has a wealth of experience in developing academic programming; he led Benedictine University for twenty years, which was “the fastest growing university” in its category for ten years (The Chronicle of Higher Education).
During this time of return, the world faced significant challenges, including the largest pandemic in recent history, a demographic decline in traditional-age students, and a declining interest in degree programming. To address these issues, the College established two tracks: certificate programming and partnerships with traditional universities to offer degree opportunities. All educational delivery systems were in play, including online, traditional classrooms, hybrid, and more. As colleges continue to navigate an ever-changing landscape, Saint Joseph's College is taking bold steps to ensure its success in the future.
The "new" Saint Joseph's College has returned with state-of-the-art facilities to offer exciting programs to meet the needs of the community. With traditional degree programs delivered through partner universities/colleges and a variety of certificate programs in healthcare, executive education, and a unique trades program in association with local high schools, the College provides a unique component for the community. Corporate events, including training sessions, workshops, seminars, after-hours meetups, and networking events can be held at Saint Joseph's Meeting and Conference Center. The Core Coworking Center also offers state-of-the-art facilities for individuals and organizations to complete projects or start new businesses. Looking to expand its offerings and opportunities, the college seeks unique partnerships with entrepreneurial universities and companies to expand its services to the community and to become a model of how small rural colleges might prosper in the 21st century.
Saint Joseph’s College in Rensselaer, IN is alive and well!
