Cabrini University closing

Villanova will acquire campus in eastern Pa.

Cabrini University in Radnor, Pa., will close its doors at the end of the 2024 school year and its campus will be acquired by nearby Villanova University.

A joint news release was issued Friday by the presidents of both Catholic schools: Helen Drinan of Cabrini University and the Rev. Peter Donohue of Villanova.

“In a shifting and increasingly difficult higher-ed landscape, Cabrini University, like so many colleges and universities, has faced significant financial challenges stemming from declining enrollment, the pandemic, and economic uncertainty,” the schools said.

“Despite efforts to improve revenue streams, and changes to the leadership and academic ranks, Cabrini’s operating deficit remained insurmountable. With all other possible options exhausted and having determined that they must conclude their operations, Cabrini University initiated discussions with Villanova around a plan that would preserve Cabrini’s legacy and mission and honor the original intention for the Cabrini campus to promote opportunities in Catholic education.”

The universities said their boards had approved in principle an agreement “that will preserve Cabrini’s history, mission, ministry, and legacy after the school graduates its final class in May 2024 and concludes operations.”

According to the agreement, Cabrini said it will continue with the 2023-24 school year for the freshman, sophomore and junior classes and will “see its class of 2024 through to graduation with a robust set of course offerings and a focus on celebrating its history, mission, ministry, and legacy.”

The two universities said they will share counseling and resources to help Cabrini students develop transfer plans.

When Cabrini shutters in 2024, Villanova “will assume ownership of the land.”

“Villanova will preserve Cabrini University’s legacy, both in name and in the continuation of some of the institution’s most impactful work in education, nursing, service, immigration, and the advancement of women.”

The schools said discussions were ongoing on a final agreement.

According to its website, Cabrini has an enrollment of about 1,600 students.