WINONA LAKE — Grace College announced it has reduced some of its personnel and made other changes with a goal to make “a Grace College education attainable for students while remaining sustainable for the long-term.”

The college said it was necessary to eliminate 12 full and part-time staff positions as well as leave nine unfilled positions vacant.

The statement also said they expect a few faculty will accept an early retirement offer. 

“These decisions were made through much prayer and concern for those affected. We believe these steps are necessary in moving the mission of Grace forward and preparing students to lead lives of purpose,” the statement said.

Changes are geared to increase efficiency, serve the students in positive ways and improve operational budgets. A broad-based group of faculty and staff met over two months to review data, consider innovative options and make recommendations. The college is also employing the following recommendations: 

• Career Connections will be embedded in academic programs to better align with academic departments and faculty.  
• The financial aid, registrar and student account areas will be consolidated to a “One-Stop-Shop” for student services. 
• Event services will be combined with the alumni office to form the Alumni and Community Engagement Office.