Northland College to Permanently Close Its Doors in May 2025

Northland College, a long-standing educational institution in Ashland, Wisconsin, will permanently shut down on May 31, 2025. The announcement was formally communicated by Interim President Barb Lundberg in a letter addressed to the Wisconsin Bureau of Workforce Training.

The closure of the college, located at 1411 Ellis Avenue, will affect all employees, except for a limited number who will be temporarily retained for regulatory and legacy purposes.

According to the letter, employees have already been notified of their separation dates, and their termination from employment will be permanent.

“This closure is expected to be permanent and will affect all employees,” Lundberg stated. “There will not be any bumping rights for affected employees, meaning that no workers will be able to displace others in order to retain their jobs.”

The letter was also sent to Ashland Mayor Matthew MacKenzie, notifying local officials of the impending shutdown. The college has not disclosed specific reasons for the closure or potential plans for the property after its closure.

The shutdown marks the end of an era for Northland College, which has been a fixture in Ashland’s academic and cultural landscape. The news has left many in the community concerned about the economic and social impact, especially for faculty, staff, and students who have relied on the institution for education and employment.

Further details regarding severance packages, student transition plans, or any potential efforts to preserve the college’s legacy have not yet been shared. Community members with questions have been directed to contact Barb Lundberg at the college’s administrative office.

As the closure date approaches, affected employees and the Ashland community will be looking for answers on what comes next for the campus and those impacted by the decision.