A recent study conducted by the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) has identified three universities in Virginia—University of Mary Washington, Virginia State University, and Radford University—as experiencing “some” viability risks that could impact their long-term sustainability and operational effectiveness. The findings were released on October 8, 2024, and indicate that, while none of the institutions were classified as facing “high” risks, each is actively working to address the challenges they face.
Assessment Overview
The JLARC assessment evaluated 15 public four-year universities in Virginia, focusing on three critical factors: enrollment levels, institutional appeal, and financial stability, utilizing data available up to 2022. Del. Mark Sickles, who chairs the commission, noted that these heightened risks stem from several factors, including a shift in educational emphasis towards Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs, which tend to benefit larger institutions more than smaller liberal arts colleges.
Institutional Responses
Sickles communicated that the findings were anticipated by the leadership of the affected institutions, which have already commenced remedial action to alleviate the identified risks. The study also drew attention to the changing perceptions regarding the value of higher education and the impact of declining enrollment numbers over the previous decade.
Specific Findings
Specifically, the report highlighted Radford University, which has experienced a 26% decline in full-time enrollment over the past ten years, a decrease that surpasses trends at other public universities in Virginia, including Virginia Tech. Moreover, the financial situations at Mary Washington and Virginia State University are hindered by their inability to increase tuition without risking additional enrollment drops, alongside challenges such as aging facilities and substantial debt burdens.
Concerns Raised
Concerns were raised by Sen. Mamie Locke regarding Virginia State University’s declining tuition revenues, attributed to its older facilities. She referenced a federal estimate indicating that the university is owed over $277 million due to historical shortfalls in state funding.
Viability Risk Classification
Additionally, the study classified other public universities, including Christopher Newport University, Longwood University, and Norfolk State University, as having a “very low” viability risk. JLARC did not issue specific recommendations for these institutions, apart from acknowledging ongoing planning and analytical efforts they are undertaking.
State Funding and Recommendations
In light of the findings, state officials have pointed to a recent increase in funding for higher education, aimed at enhancing access, affordability, and degree production. The JLARC report also suggested strategies to enhance cost efficiency amidst rising expenditure and gradual enrollment growth, recommending measures such as capping student fees tied to intercollegiate athletics and establishing accountability for institutions with declining enrollment figures.
Conclusion
The study underscores the intricate dynamics influencing higher education in Virginia, particularly as traditional funding and operational models are tested in a transforming educational environment.
(Source: Virginia Mercury)