Limestone University closing: After 200 years, the SC school may shut down or shift to online-only, losing campus life and athletics.
The Limestone University Board of Trustees will meet on April 22 to determine the school’s future. The institution urgently needs $6 million in immediate funding to continue in-person operations.
A Historic South Carolina Institution at Risk
Founded in 1845, Limestone College in South Carolina—now Limestone University—has become a fixture in Cherokee County, with a $150 million annual economic impact. Jobs, local culture, and a beloved campus community are all at risk from its potential closure.
Without a financial lifeline, Limestone might stop giving traditional on-campus experiences, stop all athletics, and move all academic offerings online.
Athletes May Lose Their Legacy
- Limestone has traditionally taken pride in its sporting accomplishments: the men’s lacrosse team currently has a 13-1 record and five NCAA titles.
- The women’s lacrosse team, a two-time NCAA runner-up, stands at 11-4 this spring.
- These programs, along with all other in-person student activities, would be discontinued under a fully online model.
What’s Behind the Crisis?
The university’s financial strain reflects broader challenges facing small private colleges:
- National enrollment declines
- Rising operational costs
- Structural financial pressures
Despite these struggles, Limestone’s online programs are thriving and could support a new digital-only future.
Leadership Statement
“Limestone remains committed to our students and we will work directly with them to help identify the best path forward,” said Randall Richardson, Chair of the Board of Trustees.
“But without this $6 million, we will have no choice but to move all operations online, which means closing our physical campus,” he added.
In order to explore choices and guarantee continuation in their academic journeys, the institution is collaborating closely with current students.
Contact Details
- Charles Wyatt, VP of Communications, can be reached by media at communications@limestone.edu.
- Questions from students: provost Dr. Brian Ameling — provost@limestone.edu
- Questions in general: info@limestone.edu
Source: USA La Crosse
