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NewsBay News 9 (Manatee)July 29, 2026Sarasota County

New College Foundation Disbands Alumni Association

The New College Foundation board has voted to dissolve the independent New College Alumni Association. It will be replaced by a new Alumni Engagement Committee, whose members will be appointed directly by the foundation board.

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Read the full story at Bay News 9 (Manatee)

Why It Matters

The decision removes an independent alumni organization and replaces it with a foundation-appointed committee, changing how graduates interact with and influence the college's administration.

Key Facts

  • The New College Foundation board voted to disband the existing New College Alumni Association.
  • The board is replacing the association with a new Alumni Engagement Committee.
  • Members of the new Alumni Engagement Committee will be appointed by the foundation board rather than elected by alumni.
  • The college expects an enrollment of approximately 1,000 students for the fall, representing a 40% increase since 2023.
  • The new committee members will determine who serves as the committee chair.
  • Foundation board members stated the change is intended to align alumni engagement with the college's current vision.
  • Critics of the move argue that the change eliminates an independent voice for graduates.

Who's Mentioned

personJillian Walker“New College alumna (class of 2009) who expressed concerns regarding the changes.”other1,000“Estimated student enrollment for the upcoming fall semester.”organizationNew College Foundation“The governing body that voted to disband the alumni association.”personRon DeSantis“Governor of Florida who directed a leadership overhaul at the college in 2023.”organizationAlumni Engagement Committee“The new body created to replace the alumni association.”organizationNew College Alumni Association“The organization that was disbanded by the foundation board.”personJono Miller“New College alumnus (class of 1974) who criticized the loss of an independent al”personAdam Kendall“Foundation Board member who stated the change is meant to align alumni with the ”