“The truth will set you free” and “Bluffton is a community of respect” are two Bluffton sayings. Where was the truth in what led up to the decision for Bluffton University to merge with the University of Findlay (April)? Facts that led up to the decision were not shared with faculty, staff and stakeholders. Trustees were required to sign a nondisclosure statement.  

After the announcement that the universities’ presidents had “signed a memorandum of understanding declaring the intention to become one higher education community on two campuses,” a petition, created by five alumni (myself included), was circulated. The petition asked the board to share information that led to the decision and to listen to input from all stakeholders. The board’s response was, “As the fiduciaries of the university, we want to assure you that the decision was made with deep and thorough discernment.” The request to meet with the board went unacknowledged. 

I am asking for transparency. I am afraid Bluffton University is at risk of losing its vision and mission. It is my opinion that the nondisclosure created mistrust and more questions. I ask the board to reconsider the merger decision and be willing to meet with alumni and stakeholders. There is more to the story than has been reported.

Joyce Schumacher, Bluffton, Ohio

The writer is a former director of
alumni, parent and church relations
at Bluffton University.