The former Baptist Bible College campus, now known as Clarks Summit University, is on the market for $17.5 million. Steve Farrell, owner of Clarks Summit-based Classic Properties, referred to the 109-acre property as the “oasis of the Abingtons” while giving a tour of the campus.
Prime Real Estate on the Market
The campus features 18 buildings and picturesque views, making it a significant opportunity for potential buyers, Farrell said. He emphasized its prime location, stating, “It’s probably the most prime piece of real estate in the Abingtons.”
Among the notable facilities is the Recreation Center, which opened in 2014 and has been used for various events, from AAU basketball to high school track meets. Farrell highlighted the Recreation Center as a key asset for generating revenue. “It’s such an asset,” he said. “It’s probably the most valuable asset of any building on campus.”
The University’s Closure
Clarks Summit University, originally Baptist Bible College, announced its closure on July 1 due to financial difficulties. The university had previously furloughed all employees on May 20 in an attempt to reduce a budget deficit after the Middle States Commission on Higher Education rejected the university’s “teach-out” plan, which would have allowed undergraduates to complete their education elsewhere.
Declining Enrollment Led to Financial Struggles
Jim Lytle, the university’s president since 2015, attributed the closure to declining on-campus enrollment. He explained that while the university still had over 700 students, only 250 lived on campus. “Those on-campus students really generate the money for you,” Lytle said.
The university hit its peak more than 40 years ago, with nearly 900 students living on campus. However, Lytle began noticing a steady decline in enrollment around 2002. He pointed out that many college presidents facing similar situations would likely agree on the underlying issue: “They just needed a few more students and a little more money. It’s that simple.”
Lytle recounted how the school sought financial assistance earlier this year but was unable to secure it. “We thought we had it secured in February from a private foundation, but they ultimately changed their mind, much to our surprise,” he said.
Challenges as a Niche Institution
Clarks Summit University’s focus on providing a biblical higher education made it a niche school, which further contributed to the challenges it faced. “We were able to keep moving ahead until we hit a point where we couldn’t,” Lytle explained.
Despite the closure, Lytle expressed pride in the university’s impact on students’ personal and spiritual development. “I’ve been part of this place for 32 years. We created a lot of opportunities and sent graduates all over the world.”
A Rich History
The university’s roots trace back to 1932 when it was established as Baptist Bible Seminary in Johnson City, New York, by Dr. Richard J. Murphy and other pastors and educators. In 1968, the seminary moved to South Abington Township and was renamed Baptist Bible College of Pennsylvania in 1971.
Unique Features of the Campus
Jody Ferdyn, a Realtor with Classic Properties marketing the property, highlighted the unique architecture of Jackson Hall as one of the campus’s distinguishing features. “This might not sell the property, but to me, this is what people are going to talk about,” she said.
Hopes for the Future
Lytle expressed hope that the future owner of the property will consider its potential to benefit the community. “I would love to have somebody buy it who would serve the Abingtons,” he said. “There are so many ways that can be done.”