Sterling College in Vermont announced it will close at the end of the spring 2026 semester, citing persistent enrollment decline and financial strain. The environmental‑studies focused liberal arts institution had fewer than 40 students this semester and relied heavily on restricted grants; its modest endowment—about $1.2 million—could not sustain operations as tuition revenue plunged. Sterling is arranging teach‑out agreements with regional peers including College of the Atlantic, Community College of Vermont and Champlain College, contingent on accreditor approval from the New England Commission of Higher Education. The college said it will hold a final commencement and operate summer internship programs depending on student need; trustees framed the closure as a responsible wind‑down to support students through transitions.