UI, Phoenix abandon partnership

The University of Phoenix and the University of Idaho have officially ended their negotiations for a proposed $685 million acquisition deal after two years of discussions. The University of Phoenix acknowledged the potential transformative opportunity but stated it would not pursue the partnership further. UI President Scott Green cited cost prohibitive factors and distractions from other institutional priorities as reasons for discontinuing talks. UI will seek approval from the Idaho State Board of Education to finalize the termination agreement and recover $17. 24 million in expenses incurred during negotiations.

Concerns from Idaho lawmakers and legal challenges, including a lawsuit from Attorney General Raul Labrador, complicated the acquisition process. The Idaho Legislature also blocked the deal in 2024, prompting a deadline extension that ultimately failed to yield results. UI plans to rely on a new strategic plan to guide its operations and address future enrollment challenges. The university has recently seen growth in enrollment and significant fundraising success, raising over $500 million since 2015.