Description

As financial support for public higher education declines and higher education efficiency needs increase, higher education leaders are considering options that include shared services, shared campuses, affiliations, partnerships, and co-branding efforts. In this context, mergers and consolidations often are presented as a last resort. Mergers, however, also should be considered a proactive strategy to enhance institutional missions.

Session panelists will address key questions: What market forces create the impetus for mergers? Which institutions should consider mergers—and why? What critical elements must be in place for a merger to succeed?

Learning Objectives

• Examine the historic and current rationale for mergers in higher education.
• Know the seven critical elements of a successful merger.
• Develop a strategic and operational understanding of the opportunities and challenges of mergers in higher education.