Trinity Christian College will close at the end of the 2025-2026 academic year, marking the end of more than six decades of operation for the private Christian liberal arts institution in Palos Heights, Illinois.
The college's Board of Trustees made the closure decision after reviewing the institution's financial outlook and strategic alternatives, according to an announcement Tuesday. Trinity will hold its final commencement ceremony on May 8, 2026.
Log in to view the full article
Trinity Christian College will close at the end of the 2025-2026 academic year, marking the end of more than six decades of operation for the private Christian liberal arts institution in Palos Heights, Illinois.
The college's Board of Trustees made the closure decision after reviewing the institution's financial outlook and strategic alternatives, according to an announcement Tuesday. Trinity will hold its final commencement ceremony on May 8, 2026.
"Our deepest commitment in this season is to care for our people, particularly our students, faculty, and staff, as we mourn this ending," said Dr. Jeanine Mozie, acting president of Trinity Christian College. "Trinity will provide advising, support, and a multitude of resources to help our students complete their academic pursuits here or at other institutions."
The closure reflects growing challenges facing small private colleges nationwide, including declining enrollment, increased competition for students, and financial pressures intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic. Trinity also faced shifts in donor support that made it difficult to continue operations while maintaining affordability for students.
The college, which offers more than 70 programs across bachelor's, master's, and adult degree completion studies, serves approximately 700 students. Current students who will not graduate in May will have access to teach-out and transfer opportunities through other regional Christian colleges.
Founded in 1959, Trinity has maintained a 98% graduate placement rate. The college's mission has focused on providing Christian education rooted in justice, humility, and love.
Palos Heights Mayor Bob Straz called the closure a significant loss for the community.
"It's a sad day for the Trinity community and for the City of Palos Heights," Straz said. "We are losing an institution that has been around for more than 60 years."
The college plans to celebrate its legacy throughout the academic year with alumni, donors, and community members. Faculty and staff will receive guidance and support to transition to new professional opportunities.
"We thank our God for the impact of this community, and we thank the faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and dedicated Board members who have worked tirelessly to serve our students for 66 years," Mozie said. "The Trinity story is enduring. It lives in the generations of people who have been formed by this community and will continue to impact their own communities for years to come."
