After 170 years, Franklin University announced plans to close rural Urbana University in Ohio, in part due to the Coronavirus Pandemic.  Urbana University from 1850-2014 was an independent institution serving the area community. It was the second institution of higher learning in Ohio to admit women to college and John Chapman, AKA Johnny Appleseed, helped bring about its creation.  In 2014 it was acquired by Franklin University. 

We ask that Franklin University work with the alumni, former and current faculty and staff of Urbana University, former and current students, local leaders, and the community to come up with viable alternatives to permanently closing the institution, that Urbana University’s campus and material possessions be “mothballed” from immediate plans of breaking them up during this process, and allow the alumni and these groups to present plans to Franklin University’s Board of Trustees.

This Place Matters—Urbana University 2020+, not affiliated or sponsored by Franklin University and Urbana University, is a group of individuals consisting of alumni, current and former students, current and former faculty and staff, and community members coming together to work to save Urbana University.  Join us on Facebook Groups at This Place Matters—Urbana University 2020+

Urbana University​

Franklin University