Alderson Broaddus University Faces Pending Closure and Mounting Debt; State Lawmakers Criticize the Situation

However, after a new Board of Trustees and university administration took over, they decided to try and salvage the university. Tucker noted that the university owed the City of Philippi $835,000 in overdue utility bills and fees, as well as $2 million to its primary food vendor.

During the hearings, State Delegate Joe Statler raised concerns about the university’s recruitment efforts while its debt continued to increase. He questioned whether Alderson Broaddus University was actively recruiting students throughout the spring, despite being aware of its financial troubles.

Meanwhile, there are approximately eight to ten first-year students enrolled in Alderson Broaddus’s Physician Assistant program who are now searching for alternative institutions to continue their studies. Tucker explained that all four Physician Assistant programs in West Virginia have already reached their maximum student capacity, making it challenging for these students to find available spots. The Higher Education Policy Commission has reached out to the accreditors overseeing these programs in an attempt to secure an exception for the affected students, but discussions have been unsuccessful thus far.

Governor Jim Justice also addressed the situation during a brief online news conference about the special legislative session he had called over the weekend. When asked if there was any assistance his administration could provide to the affected students, Justice expressed his disappointment with the timing of the closure, which occurred just days before students were set to begin the new academic year.

The closure of Alderson Broaddus University has created uncertainties for both students and the local community. Efforts are being made to mitigate the impact on students who are seeking alternative educational opportunities, particularly those enrolled in the Physician Assistant program. The assistance of accrediting bodies and the support of state leaders will be crucial in finding solutions for these students affected by the closure.