Chester, NH-Thursday, April 26, 2012-Chester College of New England is at risk of closing permanently due to an unprecedented budget deficit.

In exactly two weeks, the college must raise between $500,000 to $900,000 with a fundraising deadline of May 9 to remain in operation for the Fall 2012-2013 school year.

In an email dated April 24, 2012 from college President Robert Baines, he emphasized that "Vigorous recruiting for the next class continues and deposits are due May 1. After that date, the Board of Trustees will review the situation. We expect a significant increase in the number of deposits."

"At the meeting, students, faculty and staff commitments to and enthusiasm for Chester College were inspiring," said President Baines.

"Inspiring" touches only the tip of the iceberg. Since the April 24 meeting, the college community has raised over $3000 in donations to keep the school open for the 2012-2013 school year via social media campaigns and some students have even volunteered to forgo attending activities so the activities fee they pay could be donated to ease next year's deficit.

Laura Ives, The Dean of the college, is quoted saying, "The College has never been in a better position with exceptional staff managing their departments. The problem is very simple-and sadly a problem that we share with colleges across the country.

"Chester, like many colleges and universities is tuition driven, which means that the majority of funds to run the college comes from tuition. Incoming enrollment during 2009 and 2010 suffered due to the economy. That is the only reason why we will have a deficit next year-lower enrollment numbers with juniors and seniors."

Chester College of New England is a private, non-sectarian institution of higher education that offers the Bachelor of Arts degree in Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Photography and Media Arts, Creative Writing, Professional Writing, Communication Arts, and Interdisciplinary Arts. Chester College of New England embraces the idea that the liberal arts are essential to lifelong education, as well as being the foundation of all creative and professional endeavors. All degree candidates must satisfactorily complete the general education core curriculum, which includes courses from the liberal and creative arts.

Visit the website www.chestercollege.edu and click "Donate" on the bottom right. Those interested in making a large donation should contact Laura Ives. Chester College of New England's federal tax ID code is 02-0267883.

Contact:
Laura Ives laura.ives@chestercollege.edu
40 Chester StreetChester, NH 03036
Ph: 603-887-7404

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