PHILIPPI — As Alderson Broaddus University officials develop a “plan of dissolution” for the school, colleges and universities from throughout West Virginia – and beyond – are offering help to the AB students impacted by this week’s events.

On Monday, the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission held an emergency meeting and voted to revoke Alderson Broaddus’ authorization to confer degrees in the state.

At about 11 p.m. Monday evening, James Garvin, the chairman of the Alderson Broaddus University Board of Trustees and Governors, put out the following statement:

“The Alderson Broaddus Board of Trustees voted tonight to develop a plan of dissolution for the university in the aftermath of this afternoon’s decision by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission. The Board and the administration will be communicating more tomorrow about its specific plans for assisting students, faculty, and staff dealing with the changes resulting from today’s action by the HEPC.”

According to Alderson Broaddus, 625 students had enrolled for the fall semester. Monday’s order would allow students expected to graduate during the fall semester to complete their degrees.

For the remaining AB students, other local educational facilities are stepping forward to offer help.

West Virginia Wesleyan College released a statement saying the school “stands ready to serve all current or incoming Alderson Broaddus students at this difficult time. We will provide these students with fast and free priority application and thorough transcript evaluations.

“Students accepted to WVWC will be given guaranteed housing placement, robust financial aid opportunities, and holistic student support. Students and families are encouraged to contact admissions@wvwc.edu or 304-473-8510 for direct and individualized attention.”

Davis & Elkins College said the school’s community “stands ready to serve any and all AB students looking to enroll in our institution. We will provide students with a rapid admission process and offer the tools and resources for student success.

“Students and families are encouraged to contact Chanda Collette, Collettec@dewv.edu, or 304-637-1429 for personalized attention and information related to transferring to D&E.

“New students should contact Angie Scott, scotta3@dewv.edu or 304-637-1983 for immediate assistance and expeditious admission to D&E.”

Fairmont State University issued a statement saying that, “as Alderson Broaddus’ nearest public, four-year higher education neighbor (we’re about 40 miles from the AB campus), Fairmont State is uniquely positioned to serve and support Alderson Broaddus University students. 

“We want to help (AB students) complete their degree programs in the same (or shorter) amount of time and at a similar (or lower) cost. Students still have time to apply and enroll at Fairmont State for fall classes, which start on Aug.21.

“Our application is free and streamlined for quick completion. Any incoming first-time freshman who can provide a copy of their admit letter from AB will be provisionally admitted to Fairmont State. We are prioritizing any applications for AB students and have assigned a Transfer Admissions expert to expedite these applications, and we will do our best to make admissions decisions for Alderson Broaddus students within 48 hours. Our transfer admissions advisors will work with AB students to maximize the transfer of courses and keep them on track with their personal degree plans.” 

Salem University said it will “welcome the opportunity to support Alderson Broaddus students during this challenging time. We are prepared to work with these students on a priority basis and maximize transfer credits towards completing their degree.

“For student athletes, we offer a variety of 13 varsity sports with roster spots still available. Salem University is committed to Higher Education in support of students, student athletes and staff.”

Glenville State University stated that “GSU President Dr. Mark Manchin has decided to award scholarships to all ABU students. In addition, GSU will guarantee housing placement and our financial aid staff will help with equivalent financial aid packaging.  

“Those interested in enrolling or transferring may contact admissions@glenville.edu or call 304-462-6130.”

Even Park University in Pittsburgh has offered help for AB students, saying “those students who reach out to Point Park will undergo an expedited process that will include a transcript review, financial aid package and discounted housing. You can qualify for all need-based aid and up to $25,000 in athletic, academic and merit scholarships. You also will have access to a transfer counselor to assist the process and an academic success coach.

“To get started, call 412-392-3430 or email enroll@pointpark.edu to access our transfer concierge services.”

Alderson Broaddus, a Baptist-affiliated liberal studies university in Barbour County with roots going back 150 years, has multi-million-dollar debt, negative cash flow, decreasing student enrollment and has racked up nearly a year’s worth of overdue utility bills to the tune of more than $776,000, according to filings with the Public Service Commission.