SEATTLE, Wash. — 354 Cornish College of the Arts employees were sent notices Monday that they’re being laid off.
The worker adjustment and restraining notification (WARN) site says their last day of work will be May 31.
The layoffs come after Seattle University (SU) finalized a deal to absorb Cornish College of the Arts.
The two private colleges announced Tuesday that their boards had approved an agreement for SU to acquire Cornish’s assets.
Seattle U released the following statement about their plans for the faculty and staff who are being laid off by Cornish:
“Seattle University is evaluating hiring decisions. We anticipate making offers to most Cornish faculty and staff to ensure continuity and support for Cornish students throughout this transition and beyond. Our commitment is to both maintain and enhance the high-quality education and support that Cornish students have come to expect. This includes additional services, support and activities available to all Seattle University students. Overall, Seattle University’s pay scales are higher than those of Cornish. The plan is to make all decisions as soon as possible and before the end of May.”
Cornish says its students will transition to Seattle U in fall 2025 while continuing their studies at the Cornish campus. They will also have access to SU’s resources, including counseling, health services, and recreational facilities.
Students who graduate from the Cornish College of the Arts at Seattle University will receive their degree from Seattle University.
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