“We know that the COVID-19 pandemic has presented a challenge for all educational institutions,” said Wright State President Sue Edwards. “We’re very sad that it has resulted in Urbana University closing, so we want to help their students as best we can.”
Tuesday’s closure announcement came the same day WSU announced that Robert Durkle will join WSU as the new chief recruitment and admissions officer, effective June 1.
Durkle has held leadership positions in admissions, recruitment, and financial aid at the University of Dayton throughout his 30-year career, according to a release. He currently serves as the associate vice president of enrollment management and dean of admission and financial aid.
“Now more than ever, our strategies of recruitment, retention and relationships are vital for the future of our university,” Edwards said. “As chief recruitment and admissions officer, Mr. Durkle will play a pivotal role in the execution of these strategies.”
Urbana’s closure will affect 350 students and 111 full-time employees, according to a statement from Franklin University.
“College students are already experiencing stress as they’ve had to adapt to classes being offered remotely,” said Jen McCamis, Wright State’s director of admissions. “We’re here to make sure students displaced by Urbana University’s closure don’t have additional stress as they determine how they will finish their degrees.”
McCamis is inviting Urbana students to meet virtually one-on-one with an advisor from WSU to talk about degree options, how credits transfer, financial aid, housing, student life, the University Honors program and answer any other questions they may have.
“Maybe these students will see that Wright State is a good fit for them, and maybe not, but we want them to know we are here for them if they need us,” said McCamis. “If we can ease their stress a little bit, we’re eager to help. We’re all in this together,” she added.
Urbana University students seeking more information, or who are interested in a personalized advisor meeting, should visit wright.edu/urbana or call 937-775-4830.
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