Troy University to help Birmingham-Southern students after closure

Troy University has developed a strategy to help future transfer students affected by the closure of Birmingham-Southern College.

Birmingham-Southern College was a private university that had been teaching for 168 years. Last week, the college’s board of trustees announced the school would close on May 31.

Troy University’s Senior Vice Chancellor for Student Services and Administration Sohail Agboatwala sympathized with the students who will be displaced next semester in a university press release.

“As students begin the process of charting their new educational journey, Troy University is here to assist them,” Agboatwala said. “At Troy, our students enjoy quality educational opportunities in a values-centered, family environment with faculty and staff who are committed to student success.

“We are well prepared to help Birmingham-Southern students find their best path forward and continue their journey toward becoming the next generation of leaders.”

In addition to being eligible for academic and transfer scholarships, Birmingham-Southern students applying to Troy will have all application fees waived and will receive expedited transcript evaluation. Admission counselors will also provide individualized assistance to help students transition smoothly into a new environment.

“This is a unique situation for these students, and we are committed to helping them navigate what can be a very difficult and emotional time,” said Gus McKenzie, assistant director of enrollment management, in the same press release. “Each student’s circumstances are unique, and we are prepared to offer the individual attention necessary to address their varying needs.”

The closure comes after the university, which is $38 million in debt, was denied for a loan. A bill sponsored in the state legislator early this year would have extended a loan to Birmingham-South, but it didn’t receive enough support to pass.