University Announcement

An Important Milestone in the Redlands–Woodbury Partnership  

Dear University Community,

 I’m pleased to share some great news. Earlier this week, the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) approved the change of control for the University of Redlands’ merger with Woodbury University, confirming that Redlands will become the responsible institution moving forward. We originally submitted our application in 2024, making this approval a major milestone in the federal review process, bringing us one step closer to fully integrating our two institutions.

While this approval marks important progress, it is the first step in the DOE’s two-step review process. We now move into the second step, which concludes with final sign-off from the DOE, projected for summer 2026.
 
In the meantime, faculty, staff, and leaders from both universities will continue planning how we bring our institutions together thoughtfully and intentionally, always with the goal of strengthening the academic experience and expanding opportunities for our students.

Over the past two years, we’ve seen just how naturally our communities align. We share a deep commitment to student-centered learning, academic excellence, and preparing graduates for meaningful lives and careers. Many of you have experienced this firsthand through campus visits and collaborative conversations about our shared future. Thank you for the energy and dedication that have brought us to this moment.

There is still important work ahead, but this milestone is worth celebrating. I look forward to building a future that honors the histories of both institutions while creating new opportunities for the students who will shape our future.
 
With gratitude,

Krista L. Newkirk                                          

President