Judson College Alumnae to Gather for Final Historic “Step Sing” as 5th Oldest Women’s College in the U.S. scheduled to Close July 31st
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, May 19, 2021
For more information Contact:
Always A Judson, Inc.
205.440.2451
Judson College Alumnae to Gather for Final Historic
“Step Sing” as 5th Oldest Women’s College in the U.S.
scheduled to Close July 31st
Alumnae will rally together though their expertise was not wanted by the Administration to further the college’s future
MARION, AL – Over five decades of Alumnae are expected to gather this Saturday, May 22nd, at 12:00 p.m. as the Judson College Alumnae Association presents their Final Historic “Step Sing” on the steps of Judson College, the 5th oldest Women’s College in the United States. This small, Baptist liberal arts college filled with traditions and known for its strong sisterhood, leadership and high- quality education, has persevered for over 183 years through wars, pandemics, fires and other challenges with the strength and partnership of her Alumnae, but this time the administration would not accept their organized efforts to help.
With approximately only 33 women’s colleges remaining in the U.S. compared to 280+ in the 1960’s, this Alabama ‘gem’ will likely become another casualty. Over the past five months, the college announced possible closure to on-campus teaching for Spring ‘21, but later opened on January 20th because the $1.5 Million unrestricted gifts and pledges deadline was met; a second and much larger 30-day fundraising challenge of $5 Million was announced on March 3rd and though the challenge was not met, the Board of Trustees voted on April 2 to continue with plans to reopen for the Fall ’21; and finally, just a month later on May 6th, the Board of Trustees reversed their decision and announced suspension of its academic operation after the summer term ending July 31, 2021.
Always A Judson, Inc.(AAJ), a nonprofit organization incorporated by alumnae formed to focus on a long-term sustainability plan for the college. The group immediately met with leadership representation from Sweet Briar College to gain understanding of their successes and trials during their process to save their college in 2015. Within weeks, a large number of experienced and dedicated Alumnae from across the country joined AAJ task forces to develop Fundraising Strategies, Recruitment Plans, expansion of Communication/Social Media, and a Strategic Plan to expand the current curriculum and incorporate the attributes of the Black Belt. Unfortunately, formal presentations and informal offerings to help by the alumnae, were received, but ultimately declined by the administration.
As of today, seniors have since graduated, a small group of students remain on campus and employees are being terminated, and yet, alumnae in the One Judson group have partnered with faculty and community-based agencies to diligently enlist the underclassmen in other good colleges and to relocate staff.
“The Alumnae have always rallied due to their determination, leadership and faith” said Laurie Gruenloh, Vice President of AAJ. “We still believe in the importance of Women’s Higher Education in a Christian environment and we have 183 years of success to support that theory. The question is do others believe there is a significant value in the young woman of today to offer them that same opportunity for success? If they do, we need to hear from you immediately. We invite you to join us on Saturday, May 22nd at noon to witness the resilience and strength of Judson’s Alumnae.” said Gruenloh.
