On December 15, W. Mark Tew, president of Judson College, an educational institution for women in Marion, Alabama, that is affiliated with the Baptist Church, warned that the college would close if it did not raise $500,000 by the end of the year. President Tew said that another $1 million would be needed by May for the college to continue operations.
Joan Newman, chair of the Judson College board of trustees, added that “with her 182-year history, Judson has weathered many storms and become stronger and more determined to provide a quality Christian education. We welcome the financial and prayerful support of all concerned as we navigate through these challenges.”
On December 29, President Tew announced that the college had reached its first goal of raising $500,000 by year-end. The college had raised $527,665.36. In addition, President Tew stated that as of the close of business on December 28, 2020, alumnae and friends have pledged to give an additional $584,065.25 before May 31. On December 31, the board of trustees voted to keep the college open for the spring semester.
President Tew stated that “for continued progress toward the combined goal of $1.5 million, the College is exceedingly grateful to her friends and to the Judson women who have contributed their talents, time, creativity, and resources to continue to make possible the extraordinary education that Judson offers for young women. We are so grateful to our students and alumnae who have rallied to this cause to keep Judson moving on the path forward to security and growth.”