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In this episode of the College Financial Health Show, hosts Gary Stocker and Dr. Matt Hendricks conduct a data‑driven deep‑dive into the financial health of two private institutions—Drexel University (PA) and Jacksonville University (FL). Using audited financial statements (2016‑2025), IRS Form 990s, and IPEDS data, they benchmark each school against peer groups and national medians. For Drexel they find net assets grew only 24% versus a 47% median and 62% peer set, while unrestricted net assets fell 23% in real terms, and operating margins are negative in multiple years. Revenue growth (12% since 2020) lags expense growth (21%), with enrollment down 12.5% since 2016, explaining stagnant student revenue. Expense analysis reveals several line items—advertising ($12.3 M), IT, and especially insurance ($29 M)—that are above peer averages, contributing to budget pressure. For Jacksonville University, net assets are flat and unrestricted assets have shrunk dramatically, leaving only $33 M in unrestricted reserves. The school shows a pattern of deficits (12% loss in 2024) despite total revenue growth (17% including non‑operating income). Expenses have surged 50% since 2016, driven largely by payroll spikes and high advertising spend. Both schools also exhibit low 4‑year graduation rates and reliance on large tuition discounting (unfunded institutional grants). The hosts discuss diagnostic next steps—funnel/admissions analysis, vendor and insurance reviews—using their Strategic Compass product, and contemplate strategic options such as mergers or acquisitions, citing Vanderbilt’s recent expansion as a model. The episode ends with a call for future analyses of additional colleges.

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