Trinity Lutheran College Closing In Everett

The solar installation at Trinity Lutheran in downtown Everett.

Today, Trinity Lutheran College announced that it is ceasing instruction at the end of spring semester 2016 with no intention to resume classes in the fall. This decision, which was made through unanimous vote by the college’s Board of Directors, follows a season of low enrollment and financial challenges.

“After prayer, discernment and a careful and thorough study of all the resources and options available to us, the Board of Directors of Trinity Lutheran College has come to the conclusion that any efforts to increase enrollment at Trinity will no longer sustain the college. With deep sadness, I share with you that the Board has voted to cease academic instruction at Trinity in May 2016,” said Board Chair Rev. Dr. Kevin Bates in an email to students, faculty and staff on Tuesday afternoon.

The Rev. Jim Lindus, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Freeland, Wash., has been hired by the Board as the college’s Executive Director. Lindus was appointed after the college’s most recent president, John W. Reed, tendered his resignation. Lindus began his work with Trinity this past week. Trinity will continue operations through the end of spring semester and hold a final ceremony for its graduating seniors in early May.

The college is working with neighboring colleges and universities to place its remaining students to complete their coursework. “Our students have been and continue to be our highest priority for the faculty and staff at Trinity Lutheran College. We will work tirelessly to aid students in finding a new institution to finish their remaining credits and coursework, although they will always be part of the Trinity community,” said Michael DeLashmutt, Academic Dean and Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Trinity has served in higher education for the past 72 years, first as the Lutheran Bible Institute of Seattle and more recently as Trinity Lutheran College, an accredited four-year institution. The college moved to its current location in Everett in 2008.