Lake Erie College Restructures Academically to| Address Talent Gap
As part of an ambitious strategic plan to enhance student outcomes and respond to evolving workforce needs, Lake Erie College announced a realignment of its academic structure, reducing the number of academic schools from five to three. The newly configured schools include:
School of Education
School of Business and Professional Studies
School of STREAMS (Science, Technology, Research, Engineering, Animal and Medical Sciences)
This strategic restructuring will better align resources, promote efficiencies, and set the stage for future program growth aligned with student demand and workforce trends.
The School of Equine Studies will now be housed within STREAMS, reflecting the natural academic synergy between animal and medical sciences. Likewise, the School of Arts and Humanities offerings will be embedded in the College’s core curriculum, ensuring that all students continue to benefit from a strong foundation in the liberal arts.
These changes reflect the thoughtful input gathered during the College’s recent strategic planning process, led by nationally recognized higher education leader and soon-to-be three-time university President, Dr. Lori Varlotta. Varlotta’s process engaged more than 100 faculty, staff, students, alumni, and board members and affirmed Lake Erie’s commitment to being responsive, student-centered, and mission-driven.
“As a campus, we’ve gained powerful insights through the data- and community-informed process,” said President Jennifer Schuller. “Throughout my two years as a college president, it has become increasingly evident that there is a talent gap in Northeast Ohio and beyond in the areas of business, science, and education. These are areas of strength for Lake Erie College, and by reimagining our academic structure, we can multiply our impact. These changes position Lake Erie College to better support student success and respond to the needs of a changing world.”
As part of this evolution, the College will put three academic programs with consistently low enrollment into dormancy: Theater, Communication, and Graphic Design. Students will have the opportunity to engage in theater through co-curricular activities, and courses in communication and graphic design will be restructured to meet modern workforce demands. Resources saved through this change will be redirected to strengthen high-demand areas and emerging opportunities for growth.
Additionally, the College will pilot an innovative “place-based immersive learning” model within its highly regarded Tower Honors Program. This initiative will offer students enhanced opportunities to explore the vibrant arts, culture, and natural environments of Northeast Ohio through coursework and faculty-guided learning activities.
Lake Erie College’s strategic repositioning reflects its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, student opportunity, and long-term sustainability. The institution remains focused on preparing graduates for meaningful lives and careers in a rapidly changing world.