Queens University of Charlotte’s planned merger with Elon University has left students, faculty and alumni wondering what comes next.
The two private schools announced this week they intend to merge by August 2026, with Elon set to operate Queens. Leaders say the deal is designed to create a “stronger, more sustainable model of higher education” in Charlotte, according to a news release, and both campuses are expected to remain open.
So what will a merger like this actually mean for students, staff and alumni? How other colleges have handled similar deals may offer clues. The Charlotte Observer spoke to officials involved in two ongoing mergers about their experience so far.
Why do schools decide to merge?
The decision to merge Elon University with Queens University in Charlotte is based on Charlotte’s growth and opportunity, shared school values and longevity for the institutions, the news release states. The merger also boosts the financial standing of Queens University, as the universities will combine $2 billion in assets, the Observer reported. It also helps Elon establish a presence in the fast-growing Charlotte market…