Concordia University Wisconsin and the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod recently approved a resolution to acquire Concordia University Ann Arbor in Michigan.
The resolution still needs approval by the Higher Learning Commission.
“This action now allows the plan to proceed in obtaining the approval of regulators and accrediting authorities,” said Mark Polzin, chairman of Concordia University Wisconsin’s board of regents. “Upon completion of the process, expected in early 2013, the LCMS’s Christ-centered mission will continue in Ann Arbor, building for the future on 50 years of history on an extraordinary campus,”
Last year, Concordia University Wisconsin offered financial and academic guidance to the Ann Arbor university in order to strengthen its programs and visibility.
The affiliation will allow Concordia University Wisconsin to expand in a new location and will allow Concordia University Ann Arbor to remain open.
“Using our resources and experienced staff at CUW to make a positive impact at CUAA fits in with our mission here,” said Rev. Dr. Patrick Ferry, Concordia University Wisconsin president.
The new structure keeps both Universities open in their current locations, but under the Concordia University Wisconsin board of regents. Both Universities will be led by Ferry, who will spend time on both campuses.
“We are so incredibly grateful that the board of regents and the leadership team of CUW are willing to join with us in our ministry here in Ann Arbor,” said Randall Luecke, interim president of Concordia University Ann Arbor.
Final approval from the North Central Association’s Higher Learning Commission is expected next year, other aspects of the new alliance will fall into place after.
“CUAA is to be commended for its effort against difficult odds the last few years,” said Rev. Dr. Matthew Harrison, president of LCMS. “It became clear though that Ann Arbor could not thrive on its own, despite the heroic efforts of so many. CUW’s leadership stepped in at the request of the Synod to fill the gap, and is now sharing its capacity to help grow and improve CUAA. The collaboration of the two Universities, and all it represents, is fantastic,” Harrison added.
When final approval is received from the North Central Association’s Higher Learning Commission next year, other aspects of the new alliance between the two Universities will fall into place, according to LCMS officials.
