MILWAUKEE — Monday evening, Cardinal Strich University announced it will permanently close at the end of the semester.
Tuesday was an unusual day for many on campus. It was the day after they found out the college they had been attending, would no longer exist.
Many students shared that they were in shock and that thought echoed throughout the campus.
“This literally dropped out of the sky for everyone,” Cardinal Stritch student, Cate Beckett said. “There was no indication whatsoever that this was happening.”
Beckett has been going back to school to become a nurse as her second career. She has a job lined up at the Milwaukee VA once she finishes her last semester. However, now she’s unsure of what will happen next for her.
“I’m also not sure financially how this would work out, because I was on a pretty substantial scholarship here.” Beckett said. “So I don’t know if that would even be honored anywhere.”
The situation left Beckett emotional and unsure of how to move forward. She also shared how much the school meant to her and is sad to leave a campus that left an impact on her.
Senior Justin Herr finds himself in a similar situation. Herr said he only has two classes left to take next semester to graduate. But now, he’s going to have to find a new college to attend, in order to get his degree.
“It’s going to be a huge shock for me to transfer to a new college, just to complete one semester” Herr said. “So, I’m not sure what I will be doing, or what college I will be going to."
This is the same headache many across campus are feeling. It’s a closure of a school that is affecting students, staff, and facility. They are now all left wondering what will be next for them.
“It’s literally heartbreaking that this is coming to an end,” Beckett said.
The chapter on Cardinal Stritch is set to close on May 22, 2023, which means, there is not much time is left for students and staff to figure out their next moves.
Academic services will be provided through Cardinal Stritch University to students who are close to completing their degrees. However, this will only be offered to a limited number of students. Dan Scholz, Cardinal Stritch University president said the university is “finalizing partnerships with local colleges and universities” for current students to continue their college careers.