What's Happening?
Columbia College has announced it will not renew its lease with Dwight Lofts, a residence hall that accommodates first-year and transfer students, after Spring 2026. This decision will leave the college with only two residence halls starting in Fall 2026. The
college previously decided to end its lease at The Arc at Old Colony, further reducing available housing options. The decision is part of a broader strategy to reduce expenses without cutting personnel, as explained by Suzanne McBride, Interim Senior Vice President and Provost. The college aims to maintain flexibility and respond to current demand, as enrollment has declined significantly from 6,736 students in Fall 2021 to 4,461 in Fall 2025. The occupancy rate across all residence halls was 66% in Fall 2025, prompting the college to reassess its housing strategy.
Why It's Important?
The decision to end the lease with Dwight Lofts is significant as it impacts the housing availability for students, particularly those from out of state who rely on campus housing. The reduction in housing options may lead to increased anxiety among students who are concerned about securing accommodations. This move reflects broader financial challenges faced by educational institutions, which are seeking ways to cut costs amid declining enrollment. The college's strategy to reduce expenses without affecting personnel highlights the delicate balance institutions must maintain between financial sustainability and providing adequate student services.
What's Next?
Columbia College will need to address the concerns of students who are anxious about their housing situation. The college plans to accommodate students in the remaining dorms, but will no longer offer designated floors for honors students and students 21 and older. The option of roommate groups is also being suspended, which may affect students' ability to choose their living arrangements. The college is reviewing other contractual obligations to further reduce expenses, though ending contracts may incur financial penalties. The administration will need to communicate effectively with students to manage expectations and provide support during this transition.
