Bloomfield College

Bloomfield, NJ

Montclair State University

Montclair, NJ
Photo: Daniel Case
Year: 2025

The Context

The exploration took place within a rapidly evolving higher education landscape marked by demographic shifts, financial sustainability concerns, and increasing demands for innovation. Bloomfield College, faced pressures related to enrollment trends, operational efficiencies, and mission alignment in a competitive environment. It was our intent not just to have the institution survive but to thrive through the partnership with Montclair State University.

The Opportunity

Bloomfield College saw the opportunity to bolster the institution’s long-term viability and to ensure the success of this important contributor to higher education in New Jersey. Bloomfield College is the only four-year PBI in the state of New Jersey, as well as being an HSI with a large first-generation population. This partnership leveraged complementary strengths to create a stronger more sustainable institution.

Outcomes

There was a merger of the two institutions. We were able to offer enhanced academic offerings, streamline operations, and expand student access while preserving the core values of the institution. We clarified strategic priorities, strengthened stakeholder engagement, and positioned the institution’s long term for future sustainability.

Transformational Partnerships Role

A significant barrier to pursuing strategic partnerships is the cost of engaging expert counsel. While we did not need the financial assistance of TPF with this negotiation, the assistance and sound counsel provided was invaluable. They were a thought partner as we pursued the partnership and supported the team in a variety of ways by providing insight as to what they were seeing in the higher education landscape.

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