University of Phoenix
On May 17, the University of Idaho abruptly announced its plan to acquire the University of Phoenix, sending shockwaves through the state’s education and political circles.
At $685 million, it could be the largest and most polarizing transaction in Idaho higher education history. The U of I insists the deal will be a moneymaker. But Phoenix, a for-profit online giant with an enrollment of 85,000 students, is saddled with a checkered history and a tarnished reputation. Idaho Education News’ Kevin Richert has closely followed this story for months, breaking news and fighting for the public’s right to know.
Judge awards $240,000 to State Board in Phoenix lawsuit
The order marks the latest step in a lengthy, and ongoing, lawsuit challenging the University of Idaho’s $685 million bid to buy the University of Phoenix.
A path forward? Lawmakers could seek to restructure Phoenix purchase
A pair of new legal opinions could give lawmakers some added leverage, as they look to inject themselves into the Phoenix debate.
Analysis: As the session winds down (we hope), lawmakers wrestle big questions about Phoenix
The Statehouse Phoenix debate is rapidly unfolding, in the hurried final few weeks of the session and the outcome could represent one of the biggest decisions of the 2024 session.
Supreme Court throws a wrench into U of I’s timetable
The court will hear oral arguments in June, as it takes up Attorney General Raúl Labrador’s challenge to the University of Idaho’s proposed purchase. That means a nonbinding, but looming, May 31 deadline will likely go by the boards.
Statehouse roundup, 2.28.24: Green defends Phoenix purchase in tense committee hearing
INSIDE: House committee advances bill to create regional appointments to the State Board of Education.
U of I funnels $7.3 million of Phoenix consulting to Green’s former employer
The University of Idaho has run up more than $10 million of consulting costs — and counting. If the University of Phoenix purchase falls through, the U of I might be forced to eat the costs.
Phoenix fallout? Moody’s places U of I’s bond rating under review
The University of Idaho now has an A1 bond rating. The proposed $685 million University of Phoenix purchase jeopardizes that high rating, analysts said last week.
Analysis: A Legislature scorned demands to be heard on the Phoenix purchase
It’s going to be a Statehouse showdown. And one the University of Idaho and the State Board of Education could have seen coming.
U of I accreditors complete review of Phoenix purchase
Accreditors did not weigh in on the merits — or the financial implications — of the $685 million purchase. The U of I says the completed review brings the deal “one step closer” to the finish line.