Sweet Briar College Closure Long Been Planned?

Was Sweet Briar’s Closure Planned a Long Time Ago?

A comment from a long-time donor; the actions of President Parker; the hiring of President Jones; the abruptness of the closure; and the treatment of faculty, staff, and students by the administration validate the theory that the shut-down of Sweet Briar College has been long-planned. The following was overheard at a social event: A guest commented on the closure announcement to a long-time donor, and expressed sympathy, saying it was “sad.” The long-time donor to Sweet Briar was overheard replying that it was not sad, it needs to close, and it has been planned for a long time.

Reports state that when faculty interviewed Jo Ellen Parker for the position of President, they liked her. She presented herself warmly, and with the confidence of an executive with a plan for success. Reportedly, as President, she was cold, calculating, and iron handed, and many of her programs failed.

When Parker resigned, the faculty was not involved in the search process for a new President – as they always are. The Faculty Executive Committee was told that 5-6 candidates were being considered, and therefore requested the candidates’ CVs from the Board. They never received them. The story of Jimmy Jones’ hiring now centers on his serendipitous visit to campus with his wife for her reunion, and it is not believed.

Jones did not set well with many from the beginning. For example, when new Presidents come to campus, they visit all of the departments for presentations by the faculty to learn about the department. It is actually called a listening tour. Jones did not listen; he talked about himself instead. Why listen if the programs won’t be around next year?