ASU Havasu Set for June Closure: What It Means for Students

Arizona State University (ASU) has announced the closure of its Havasu campus, effective June 1, 2025. This decision impacts 225 students enrolled at the campus and puts 20 staff positions at risk.

In a news release, the university pointed to significant funding cuts from the Arizona Legislature as the primary reason behind this closure. ASU President Michael Crow emphasized the failure of state investment in higher education, stating, “These necessary actions reflect the continuing lack of public investment from state government.” Crow expressed concerns that ongoing budget cuts could hinder Arizona’s ability to cultivate a skilled workforce.

ASU Havasu was established in 2012, initially enrolled with just 70 students. Lefika Kesitilwe, a biomedicine major, expressed his shock and disappointment. “Havasu had a really good program, and something that benefited people seeking higher education locally,” he said.

International student Dipdi Bant noted that although he would graduate before the closure, staff assured affected students they would receive assistance in transferring to other ASU campuses in Tempe and Phoenix. “They’ve told us they will fully support the students’ needs,” Bant shared.

Mayor Cal Sheehy of Lake Havasu City expressed disappointment over the decision, lamenting that the community was not given an opportunity to discuss alternatives. “It’s really sad that ASU has made the decision to close the college at Lake Havasu City. A conversation about what solutions could be there and what the opportunities are would have been beneficial,” he commented.

Steve Greeley, a local business owner instrumental in establishing ASU Havasu, echoed concerns over the funding issues cited by the university. He remarked, “You would think they would have a workaround before making a decision so burdensome,” highlighting the optimism surrounding the campus’s initial introduction.

The recent budget reductions have diminished ASU’s operating budget by $11 million and affected statewide programs, including the Arizona Teachers Academy. Overall, ASU expects these cuts to have a total impact of approximately $24 million on its broader funding.

The university will also implement a tuition surcharge of about $350 for full-time on-campus students beginning in spring 2025. With more than 2,600 students potentially affected by these changes, the university faces a challenging path ahead.

Earlier reports by Today’s News-Herald indicated that students had received notice regarding the impending closure, aggravating sentiments of uncertainty surrounding the future of higher education in the area. Lauren Nguyen, a student, confirmed receiving an email detailing the closure and its funding-related implications.

Arizonanews.org will continue to monitor the developments surrounding ASU Havasu and its effects on the student body and local community.