Board of Trustees endorses continuation of need-blind admission policy

Dear Grinnellians,

I am pleased to present to you this brief video update on the recent Board of Trustees meeting.  

I do so because during this meeting, the Trustees’ agenda included the every-three-year review of Grinnell’s need-blind admission policy that has been ongoing since 2012. I know that many of you care deeply about this policy. This regular review by the Board has been part of its fiduciary duty to assure the financial sustainability of the College – even, perhaps especially, with a large endowment. In this meeting, the Board reviewed the College leadership team’s proposed strategy for financial sustainability, which included base case assumptions and budget projections; core priorities; categories and timelines of revenues and expenses, along with a range of their financial impact; and a prioritization framework.

I am pleased to share that the Board of Trustees voted to endorse the proposed financial sustainability strategies, affirmed the continuation of need-blind admission for domestic students, and ended the standalone triennial review cycle of the need-blind admission policy. The annual budget process will now provide continuing analysis of our collective financial sustainability goals. The votes for both resolutions were unanimous. This work will enable and safeguard financial sustainability, while maintaining the need-blind admission policy of the College.

I know that many of you closely track Grinnell’s progress, and I warmly thank you for your care and concern. I look forward to gathering with many of you at the upcoming In Conversation events happening in parts of the country, celebrating your generosity during Scarlet and Give Back Day 2025, and of course basking in the joy that is Reunion. My sincere thanks for all the ways now more than ever you demonstrate why the world needs more Grinnellians!

Sincerely,

Anne F. Harris
President