University of Antelope Valley in California Announces Closure

The University of Antelope Valley (UAV), a private for-profit university located in Lancaster, California, has officially announced its closure. The decision comes after WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), the association accrediting public and private educational institutions, found “serious noncompliance” with its standards.

In a statement announcing its shut down, UAV highlights the staff’s tireless efforts to ensure the institution's survival. They believe the survival would have happened if previous owners Marco and Sandra Johnson, who established the university in 1997, agreed to address the request for much-needed repairs to the aged campus, Erudera.com reports.

“It is with a heavy heart we announce the closure of the University of Antelope Valley (“UAV”). The Board of Trustees and management is currently working with the Department of Education, WSCUC and BPPE on a smooth teach out of programs and transfers with other institutions for all of UAV’s students to ensure they can complete their studies,” UAV's statement reads.

Johnsons, who remained landlords of the UAV campus after selling it to the Genius Group 16 months prior, have been asked in recent months to address many repairs needed within the campus, where over 400 issues of disrepair, including severe damage, were reported.

“We took issue with the amount of rent being charged which had doubled from the past rent to over $1 million annually. There are over 400 issues of disrepair on campus - including serious damage and decay of the roofing, structure, plumbing and electrics of the buildings causing a danger to students and staff,” the school said.

However, UAV points out that the Johnson family did not collaborate in this request but decided to issue an eviction notice against UAC, and mediation between the parties did not result in an agreement. Following the situation, UAV began the process of closing the campus.

On the other hand, the Johnsons have denied any claims, saying they have not been approached for help. According to them, they would have assisted several times if such a request was made.

UAV said it is, in the meantime, trying to find the best solution for its students and campus community, including transferring these students to other institutions so they complete their studies.

On February 29, California’s Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education announced the decision to cease all instruction at UAV, stop enrolling students, and collect tuition and fees by March 8. The notice mentioned Antelope Valley was not financially stable and had insufficient administration and inadequate facilities.

Image Source: University of Antelope Valley Twitter Account