Residents, faculty, alumni question Antioch's closing YELLOW SPRINGS -- More than 200 villagers, faculty, alumni and students attended what was billed as an emergency town meeting Tuesday night to speak out against the announced temporary closing of Antioch College after the coming academic year.
Speakers criticized the Antioch University board of trustees, which governs the college, Antioch University McGregor and four other campuses across the country, for mismanagement that led to the June decision, which also includes plans to reopen in 2012 with boosted enrollment, upgraded facilities and a stronger financial foundation.
"If you have to take care of gardens in five different states, someone's garden is not going to get taken care of," said Steve Duffy, Antioch alum and librarian at the college's library.
Faculty member Anne Bohlen questioned recent investment in Antioch University McGregor, which is building a new 90,000 square foot building at East Enon and Dayton-Yellow Springs roads.
Judith Hempfling, a village council member, said the "history, identity and fiscal health of Yellow Springs and the college are irrevocably linked," and said village officials plan to meet with Antioch trustees to discuss how the two can cooperate.
Miguel Santiago, an alumni board member, said the former students and friends of the college have raised $525,000 for the College Revival Fund, which could be used to help fund future operations at the school.
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