Citing financial hardship, Anna Maria College in Paxton will stop academic operations at the end of the spring 2026 semester after 80 years of operation.
Anna Maria announced its decision on Thursday, saying the choice came after an extended period of financial restructuring, close collaboration with state oversight bodies, and thorough consideration of alternatives..
The college expects to completely close by the end of the calendar year.
“The Board of Trustees reached this decision only after pursuing every realistic alternative. We are heartbroken,” Anna Maria College Board Chair David Trainor said in the announcement.
The news comes shortly after the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education posted a notice on April 10 the college may not have sufficient funds to operate for the next 18 months.
With the college’s fall 2026 deposit activity exceeding prior years, enrollment continuing to increase 7.5% annually, and a $5-million gift from an anonymous donor, Anna Maria appeared to be gaining momentum.
Yet the school’s fiscal year 2025 audit showed financial strain, forcing Anna Maria to implement new restrictions on administration of federal financial aid.
Graduating seniors will walk at commencement on May 9, and the college will provide transfer pathways with partner institutions for students yet to complete their degrees.
One of these partnerships is with Worcester State University, which said on Thursday it will guarantee academic transfers to current Anna Maria students.
The state school will offer Anna Maria students specialized academic advising, orientation, campus tours throughout the spring and summer.
“Our focus is entirely on our students, ensuring every one of them has a clear pathway to complete their education and that the degrees earned here continue to open doors for the rest of their lives,” Anna Maria College President Sean Ryan said in the announcement.
Mica Kanner-Mascolo is a staff writer at Worcester Business Journal, who primarily covers the healthcare, manufacturing, and higher education industries.
