Limestone University decides to delay vote determining future
GAFFNEY, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) - Limestone University announced possible funding that may allow the institution to remain open following the Board of Trustees meet on Tuesday afternoon to discuss the institution’s future.
On April 16, the university announced it was at a critical financial crossroads and at risk of closing.
According to the university, the financial crisis is the result of nationwide enrollment declines, rising costs and long-standing structural pressures facing small, private institutions.
Limestone’s potential closing impacts local athletes
Limestone University announced it could be closing its doors this week, taking chances to play along with it.
After the meeting, President Nathan Copeland said at this point the board is evaluating possibilities.
“The board really needs a little more time,” said President Copeland. “Some really big projects that may be in front of us, some big possibilities that may be in front of us. So we just want to make sure that we are giving everyone due diligence on both sides.”
According to Copeland, several groups and individuals have reached out to the university wanting to help.
Hundreds of students and staff at Limestone University are bracing for the possibility of a shutdown.
The school said it is currently $30 million in debt and it needs $6 million right now just to stay open.
There are more than 1,700 students enrolled at Limestone and about 80% of them are athletes.
South Carolina’s WARN report indicated that the school has nearly 500 employees that would lose their job if the university shuts down.
Starting at 9 a.m., students held a peaceful protest in front of Hines and Riggins Center until noon to show the board of trustees that they love Limestone and care that it continues as an on-campus community.
Columbia County Spring Fair is back, but with some policy changes
The Columbia County Spring Fair is back in town, but this time with some policy changes amid disruptions last week.
“This possible funding solution has us all cautiously optimistic about the future of Limestone as both an in-person and online educator,” said Randall Richardson, Chair of the Limestone University Board of Trustees in a release. “Last week, we were at the brink of a possible closure or transition to online-only classes. Now, we are pausing that discussion so we can wait on more information about a potential financial lifeline. We want to emphasize, this is just a possibility at the current time.”
Copyright 2025 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
