“We felt that driven by a common vision, the combined institution would be uniquely positioned to expand program offerings while cost-effectively using its resources to benefit students. After careful and prayerful consideration, the board of trustees of Point University has determined, due to complications involving legal agreements regarding Montreat’s main campus and concerns about the merger within the Montreat College family, that we cannot pursue this merger….”

WEST POINT, Ga., Feb. 25, 2014—The Point University board of trustees issued the following statement following its vote today concerning a merger with Montreat College:

“The process of considering a merger between Point University and Montreat College began more than a year ago when a representative of Montreat College approached us with the idea that, if merged, the two schools could improve their delivery of quality, Christian higher education. During our initial discussions, leadership of both schools began to see how a merger could result in increased reach, efficiency and effectiveness in providing Christ-centered education to students across the Southeast. We felt that driven by a common vision, the combined institution would be uniquely positioned to expand program offerings while cost-effectively using its resources to benefit students.

“After careful and prayerful consideration, the board of trustees of Point University has determined, due to complications involving legal agreements regarding Montreat’s main campus and concerns about the merger within the Montreat College family, that we cannot pursue this merger.

“As a four-year liberal arts Christian institution, Point University remains committed to equipping the next generation of cultural leaders motivated to live out their faith in the marketplace. We continue to enjoy growth in enrollment since relocating our main campus to West Point, Georgia, and our accelerated adult learning programs in East Point, West Point, Peachtree City and Savannah, Georgia, and Birmingham, Ala., are thriving.

“We will continue to focus our efforts on preparing a new generation of culturally savvy leaders who want to be a point of influence in their chosen vocation, and we will be praying for Montreat College and its board as they look for ways to continue the college’s educational mission.”

Willie Mangum ’88, President of the Alumni Board responded to the announcement that the merger would not be pursued:

The alumni are encouraged with today’s decision by the Board of Trustees of Point University. The alumni remain firm in their support of the college faculty, their vote of no confidence and their call “that the board of trustees be reconstituted immediately with new members committed to continuing our residential program on the Montreat campus.” Now is the time for faculty, staff, students and alumni to come together to forge a new direction for continuing Christ centered education at Montreat College and begin the process of reconciliation, renewal and transformation.