Loyola changing name to reflect evolution

One educational observer said that Loyola College in Maryland’s decision to become Loyola University Maryland reflects its evolution, but the likely name change is a source of controversy for some alumni, who feel the current name more accurately describes the school’s intimate atmosphere.

On Aug. 20, the executive committee of the board of trustees at the school announced the change would take effect Aug. 15, 2009. Loyola must get approval from the Maryland Higher Education Commission, but does not expect opposition.

In an e-mail to alumni, Father Brian F. Linnane, S.J., president, said the school is not making any bold changes.

“Since we first began considering the designation change during the past year,” Father Linnane wrote, “I have been steadfast in my assertion that if made, the change would not signify a shift in philosophy or a move away from the sense of community that is a hallmark of a Loyola education, but rather a more complete and accurate description of the institution we already are.”

Behind the change is the rationale that university accurately describes the 156-year-old institution’s growth, including a graduate student population that makes up more than 40 percent of the overall student body. There are 20 graduate degree programs at the school.

“Making a name change is a recognition of how it (Loyola) has changed over the years and where it intends to take the school in the future,” said Timothy McDonough, assistant vice president for public affairs at the American Council of Education.

Others, however, do not share that view, as a Facebook page was created on the Web by students and alumni to protest the name change. It has nearly 800 members.

Several American schools already have the Loyola University designation, including ones in Chicago, California and New Orleans. The Maryland label, the administration pointed out, should underscore any differences.

When the name change was announced, the school reached out to address concerns.

“Please let me assure you that our decision has not been made lightly,” Father Linnane wrote in his e-mail to alumni, explaining that he and other Loyola leaders spoke with many people invested in the outcome and sought feedback from alumni.

“Our decision comes only after careful consideration of these conversations, a critical examination of Loyola’s character, history and the nature of the institution we are today, and a thorough review of the extensive, data-driven research,” he wrote.

The School of Arts and Sciences will now be called Loyola College.

“It’s natural for alumni to feel a bit wistful,” Mr. McDonough said. “I suspect that if they visited the campus, they would see a name change would accurately reflect where Loyola is going.”

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