ÐÔÊÓ½ç

About Christian Brothers University:

Christian Brothers University (CBU) is a private Lasallian Catholic university in Memphis, Tennessee, committed to academic excellence and service-based leadership. With a student-centered approach, CBU provides a mission-driven education in an inclusive and supportive environment. For more information, visit .

About ÐÔÊÓ½ç:

ÐÔÊÓ½ç is a modern, enterprising, Catholic university with a growing student enrollment from GED through doctoral level programs. As part of the global Lasallian network of 65 universities, ÐÔÊÓ½ç is known for preparing graduates who impact the world for the better. Visit www.lewisu.edu for further information.

Frequently Asked Questions for ÐÔÊÓ½ç / CBU Exploring a Potential Partnership

What does signing a Letter of Intent mean? 

The Letter of Intent (LOI) is a formal agreement between ÐÔÊÓ½ç and Christian Brothers University to explore the possibility of a partnership. It signals both institutions’ commitment to carefully evaluate how they might work together to expand academic offerings, expand opportunities for students, and build a more sustainable future.

The LOI is non-binding and is not a contract or final partnership agreement — it is the first step in a thoughtful, collaborative exploration process. 

What kind of partnership are the two institutions exploring? 

The Letter of Intent (LOI) states that if a partnership with ÐÔÊÓ½ç is formed, Christian Brothers University will retain its name and Catholic institutional identity. If a formal partnership is established, it is likely that CBU will be restructured both administratively and academically. This may include the addition of new programs and degrees, consolidation of departments and resources, and changes to CBU’s leadership structure. 

Is CBU merging with ÐÔÊÓ½ç? 

No. While this process has similarities to ÐÔÊÓ½ç’ merger with St. Augustine College, the need for CBU to retain its independent status in Tennessee for state grant purposes would influence the nature of any proposed structure.

How will this affect the upcoming academic year?

This exploration process is not expected to significantly affect either institution during the 2025-26 academic year. Changes resulting from this potential partnership would be envisioned for Fall 2026 and beyond.

How might a partnership with CBU benefit ÐÔÊÓ½ç?

Memphis, home to global headquarters like FedEx, AutoZone, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, offers a vibrant ecosystem for innovation and industry-academic collaboration. This partnership is poised to expand ÐÔÊÓ½ç’s influence and connection to a growing and thriving state of Tennessee while elevating both institutions’ ability to meet regional and national needs.

How will this benefit ÐÔÊÓ½ç students? 

This process could lead to more robust academic options, access to new, accredited programs, and broader connections with industry and potential employers, among others. 

Why is CBU considering a partnership now? 

Like many universities nationwide, CBU is navigating enrollment shifts, economic pressures, and evolving student needs. While they have made progress — including increased philanthropic support, reduced expenses, and a projected budget surplus — long-term sustainability requires swift but thoughtful strategy.  

Why is a potential partnership with ÐÔÊÓ½ç appealing to CBU? 

All six U.S. Lasallian universities have been exploring opportunities to collaborate more closely. Among them, ÐÔÊÓ½ç stands out with a strong track record of successful partnerships, a growing enrollment of nearly 8,000 students, 80 undergraduate majors, and more than 35 graduate programs. ÐÔÊÓ½ç is strategically expanding its reach while maintaining a commitment to mission-driven education. Its momentum, academic depth, and institutional strength align well with CBU’s vision and goals - making ÐÔÊÓ½ç a natural strategic partner.   

What is the timeline for next steps? 

Over the coming months, CBU and ÐÔÊÓ½ç will engage in a comprehensive evaluation process, including forums, listening sessions, and strategic planning. At the Community Convocation held in August, ÐÔÊÓ½ç and CBU administration plan to provide an update. A decision on whether to move forward with a full agreement is expected later this fall, with implementation details worked out during the 2025–26 academic year. 

What is CBU’s financial status? 

Enrollment continues to be a challenge, however, thanks to strong philanthropic support, CBU expects a surplus budget this fiscal year (May 31, 2025). Relying on donor support is not a viable long-term strategy, thus CBU’s interest in the potential partnership with ÐÔÊÓ½ç.  

Why is this being communicated now?  

To responsibly explore interest by ÐÔÊÓ½ç and CBU to enter into an LOI, it was important for early discussions to remain confidential. A tremendous amount of due diligence, board discussion and external research has been conducted in a relatively short period of time.

The outcomes of that work led the leadership of both institutions to comfortably engage in the next and public phase of this potential partnership while not distracting us from our important academic work.  

When will we know more?    

Regular updates will be shared through campus emails, a dedicated webpage, town halls and listening sessions. Faculty, staff, students, and other stakeholders will have opportunities to ask questions, share feedback, and stay informed throughout the process. 

Have the appropriate accreditation agencies been notified?

Yes, we have notified the respective institutional accreditors of our intentions to explore a partnership. 

What is the status of a merger between ÐÔÊÓ½ç and St. Augustine College?

The legal merger of the two institutions became permanent on December 1, 2023. The U.S. Department of Education merger approval is still pending.

Until ÐÔÊÓ½ç receives further clarification from DOE, it will continue progress in completing merger. The primary restriction from lack of final DOE approval is maintaining separate accreditation, financial aid awarding, and the awarding of degrees.