University of Phoenix
On May 17, the University of Idaho abruptly announced its plan to acquire the University of Phoenix, sending shockwaves through the state’s education and political circles.
At $685 million, it could be the largest and most polarizing transaction in Idaho higher education history. The U of I insists the deal will be a moneymaker. But Phoenix, a for-profit online giant with an enrollment of 85,000 students, is saddled with a checkered history and a tarnished reputation. Idaho Education News’ Kevin Richert has closely followed this story for months, breaking news and fighting for the public’s right to know.
Analysis: A Legislature scorned demands to be heard on the Phoenix purchase
It’s going to be a Statehouse showdown. And one the University of Idaho and the State Board of Education could have seen coming.
U of I accreditors complete review of Phoenix purchase
Accreditors did not weigh in on the merits — or the financial implications — of the $685 million purchase. The U of I says the completed review brings the deal “one step closer” to the finish line.
Employee survey indicates support for Phoenix purchase
But months after the proposed $685 million University of Phoenix purchase went public, many U of I employees still said they had no opinions about the purchase, or were unsure about it.
Judge rejects Labrador’s open meetings lawsuit against State Board
Tuesday’s ruling clears one major obstacle blocking the University of Idaho’s proposed $685 million University of Phoenix purchase. U of I officials hope to close the complex and controversial deal early this year.
Analysis: Trial spotlights transparency — but not the Phoenix purchase
A robust public debate over government transparency is healthy and useful. It’s too bad Idahoans have never been afforded the same opportunity to debate the proposed University of Phoenix purchase.
Green says the U of I outbid multiple suitors for the University of Phoenix
On the witness stand Wednesday, University President C. Scott Green talked at greater detail than ever before about the pursuit of Phoenix. A civil suit could stymie the $685 million deal; the trial continues Thursday.
EXCLUSIVE: ‘The dollar store of higher education:’ Skeptics say the Phoenix purchase would cheapen the U of I brand
Emails are the closest the public got to a public hearing on the University of Idaho’s proposal. EdNews spoke to six people who spoke up against the $685 million megadeal in May — hours before the State Board signed on.
EXCLUSIVE: Two days in May: Inside the frenzied rush to approve — and oppose — the Phoenix purchase
Idaho Education News reviewed emails to and from State Board of Education members, obtained through a public records request. The unearthed emails provide a narrative of the 24 hours leading up to the State Board’s approval of the University of Idaho’s purchase of the University of Phoenix.
U of I demands $2,400 to review — and perhaps release — Phoenix public records
The bill centers on Idaho Education News’ request for records mentioning “Project Neptune,” a code name for the University of Phoenix. And it comes as Boise State University’s approach to public records is also under fresh scrutiny.
The $685 million University of Phoenix purchase: A study guide
Are you confused about the University of Idaho’s complex and controversial bid to buy the University of Phoenix? Or just straight-up exhausted by all the developments? Catch up here.