The unacceptable actions surrounding the closure of University of the Arts

OnStage Blog Editorial

News broke yesterday that The University of the Arts, an institution that has nurtured countless dreams, talents, and futures, is closing down on June 7. The immediate closure comes as the Middle States Commission on Higher Education revoked the school’s accreditation.

This university has been a beacon for aspiring artists, designers, and performers for nearly 150 years. Its closure is not just the end of an institution; it’s the end of an era, a devastating blow to the community, and a profound loss for the world of arts and education.

But what makes this closure even more heart-wrenching is the manner in which it has been handled. Students, staff, and faculty, the very lifeblood of the university, are given only a week’s notice to pack up their lives and move on.

The handling of the closure has been nothing short of appalling. To give students, staff, and faculty only a week’s notice is not just disrespectful; it is inhumane. Such a significant decision, with far-reaching consequences, should have been communicated with ample time for all parties to prepare. Instead, the abrupt announcement has left everyone scrambling to make sense of their new reality. The lack of transparency and consideration shown by the university’s administration is deeply troubling. It sends a message that the well-being and future of the students and faculty are of little importance.

Equally devastating is the impact on the faculty. These are the individuals who have dedicated their lives to teaching, mentoring, and guiding young artists. They have poured their hearts and souls into their work, fostering an environment of creativity and excellence. It is a profound blow to their careers and their personal lives.

Educational institutions have a responsibility to their communities, and they must be held accountable when they fail to meet that responsibility.

The closure of the University of the Arts is a significant loss. It is a reminder of the precarious nature of arts education and the need for strong support and advocacy for these vital institutions. It has been noted that the decline in enrollment and rising costs contributed directly to the school’s closure. Many other art schools have been in similar situations. Delaware College of Art and Design also just announced it will close. The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts just announced that the 2024-25 academic year will be its last. And MICA just reported a significant dip in students.

The arts are an essential part of our culture and our humanity. They inspire, challenge, and transform us. They are a reflection of our society and a vital part of our collective identity. The loss of these institutions are loss for us all.

But in the face of adversity, the creative spirit endures. The University of the Arts' legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those who were part of its community. To the students, faculty, and staff at the University of the Arts and other institutions facing the same issues, we wish you nothing but the best in finding new paths, new opportunities, and new ways to express your talents.