Two years ago, Cedar Crest College faced a defining choice: scale back in the face of projected $3 million deficits—or invest strategically in its future. The safer path was clear: cut programs, reduce staff, and narrow ambition. Instead, the College chose to invest nearly $2 million in a growth plan designed to expand opportunity, strengthen enrollment, and position Cedar Crest for long-term success. That decision required courage from the Board, confidence in the college’s leadership, and a belief that the mission deserved expansion, not contraction.
That decision rested on rigorous financial planning, multi-year forecasting, and a commitment to accountability. Every investment was tied to measurable outcomes. Rather than cut its way to balance, the College planned its way to sustainability.
Key priorities included:
- Enrollment staffing: The College expanded its team with a dedicated enrollment Marketing Specialist and Online Recruiter, strengthening communication and building infrastructure for future online enrollment growth
- Strategic marketing: Targeted digital campaigns focused on high-demand, under-enrolled programs.
- Online infrastructure: Investments in a CRM and website enhancements created a stronger foundation for online learners, while creating ease of use for existing users.
- Workforce development: ADVANCE at Cedar Crest was launched, an online platform delivering high-quality workforce development training in business, technology, and healthcare, providing new opportunities for adult learners and employers.
- Auxiliary revenue expansion: Enhanced marketing and dedicated staffing increased revenue in areas like athletic rentals and conference services.
Execution required more than strategy—it demanded investment in people and systems. Over the past two years, Cedar Crest has strengthened its brand through the We See You campaign, streamlined the student experience from inquiry to enrollment, and expanded its enrollment teams. The introduction of Falcon Navigators and professional development in online teaching and AI integration further strengthened institutional capacity.
At the same time, the College broadened access for adult, online, and workforce learners while maintaining a strong foundation for traditional undergraduate students. This expansion was not a departure from mission, but a recommitment to it. As a women-centered institution grounded in practitioner excellence, Cedar Crest is meeting the needs of working adults, career changers, and first-generation learners.
That commitment is reflected in tangible investments: enhanced enrollment and learning systems, deeper community partnerships such as the collaboration with Neighborhood Health Centers of the Lehigh Valley, and innovative learning environments like the Expert Witness Training Center, which brings together professionals across disciplines for real-world training. Expanded online offerings and new programs—including the low-residency master’s in art therapy—have further extended the College’s reach.
For Cedar Crest, growth is not about doing more, but about reaching more learners by doing what it does best. Each initiative has been carefully aligned with mission, academic rigor, and a deep commitment to student belonging and support.
The results are clear. Since implementing its growth plan, total enrollment has increased by more than 9%. Traditional undergraduate goals were reached two years ahead of schedule, adult enrollment has grown by more than 50% year-over-year, and revenue has increased by $4.6 million. The College has moved from projected deficits to structural financial balance through disciplined planning and strategic growth.
Cedar Crest is also a vital economic driver. As one of eight Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania institutions in the Lehigh Valley, it contributes to a network generating more than $2.2 billion in regional impact. On its own, Cedar Crest generates $7.5 million annually in state and local tax revenue and supports more than 800 jobs—an outsized contribution for a college of fewer than 1,300 students.
“What excites me most about Cedar Crest’s future is that our growth is deeply aligned with our mission. We are reaching more learners, creating clearer pathways to opportunity, and strengthening our role in the region—all while staying true to who we have always been. That combination of purpose and momentum gives me tremendous confidence in what lies ahead,” says President Elizabeth M. Meade.
Cedar Crest chose to grow—and in doing so, secured a future defined by strength, clarity, and expanded opportunity.