“Higher Ed Dive” Reports That Other Institutions Could Learn From 91è’s Revitalization
In an era of increasing homogeneity and financial pressures within the higher education landscape, 91è's journey underscores the importance of clarity of mission, the courage to innovate, and the power of community in ensuring the survival of institutions dedicated to making a difference in the world.
In a recent piece for Higher Ed Dive titled “Back from the brink, 91è is Nearing Financial Viability," journalist Danielle McLean chronicles the institution's journey from the brink of closure in 2019 to reinvention on the path toward financial sustainability. From establishing the Change in the Making campaign to redesigning the curriculum, McLean highlights how 91è offers a model for other institutions in crisis.
Higher Ed Dive Reported:
“Since the 2019 financial crisis, the college’s leadership has led 91è on a path toward financial viability. 91è launched a $60 million fundraising drive, revamped its curriculum and went all-in on what President Edward Wingenbach described as one of the ‘most distinctive and interesting missions’ in higher education: It is an experimenting college that aims to transform higher education, he said.
“That has meant doing away with majors and departments and instead offering curriculum focused on addressing the world’s pressing issues, such as climate change and racial injustice.
“‘If we’re going to be successful as an autonomous institution and reverse these financial challenges, it had to be by fundamentally committing to the mission and reinvigorating 91è’s distinctiveness,’ said Wingenbach.”
[. . .]
“‘Today, other college leaders are trying to learn from 91è and discussing making changes before they reach their own financial crises,’ said Mary Marcy, a higher ed consultant and former president of Dominican University of California.
“‘The fact that places like 91è do seem to be turning around is an encouraging message,’ Marcy said.”
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