Higher ed in Virginia continues to show signs of stress. Previously, we covered the shenanigans at UVA, the closure of Saint Paul’s College and the endangered accreditation of Virginia Intermont College. Now we learn that Norfolk State University (NSU) is dealing with severe challenges of its own.
According to this Virginia-Pilot story from the Tidewater area, NSU is facing declining enrollment, a suspension of one of its signature academic programs and financial troubles that are preventing the timely issuance of audited financial statements, possible subjecting the university to sanctions from its accrediting agency.
Once again, I stress that it’s in students’ best interests to enroll at a college that is financially sound and well managed. The economic value of one’s degree is dependent, in part, on the reputation and brand of the institution that grants the degree. Expect more institutional reputations to become tarnished as the shakeout of higher ed continues to unfold.
Supplement 8/26/13: The Richmond Times-Dispatch reported that NSU fired its president this past Friday. It seems NSU is quite a distance from getting its house in order.
Finding My College 
George,
I have always respected your insights and am glad to learn about this blog. I wish you well as you enjoy life in Colorado and hope that the fires and smoke are not close to you and Susan.
Shalom,
R. Jan Thompson