Financial and enrollment pressures are driving consolidation and strategic partnerships in the private-college sector. Martin University, a private predominantly Black institution, announced a pause in operations while leaders weigh options after citing cash and enrollment shortfalls. At the same time, Pomona College is reportedly in talks to acquire Claremont Graduate University, a move framed as a strategic rescue for a smaller institution struggling financially. > Martin University officials described the action as a pause—not a closure—while they explore stabilization paths. Pomona’s outreach to Claremont Graduate signals growing interest from selective liberal‑arts colleges in absorbing neighboring graduate programs to preserve regional academic ecosystems. > Higher‑education consultants say such deals shift financial risk and create new governance challenges: aligning academic missions, securing accreditation approvals, and protecting faculty employment and student continuity during transitions.