As Small Colleges Close, What Will Happen To The Towns They Call Home?

Small college towns are beloved, especially in New England.

But, the future of some small colleges is uncertain. Last week, the College of St. Joseph in Rutland, Vermont announced its impending closure, making it the third small, private college to close in Vermont this year. Meanwhile, in Massachusetts, employees and students of Hampshire College are pursuing a plan to restructure the school — and stave off a future closure.

What will this mean for the local towns that these institutions call home?

Evan Horowitz, director for research and communication at FCLT Global, a financial think thank. He tweets @FCLTHorowitz.

Matt Harrington, executive director of the Chamber of Commerce in Bennington, Vermont, which tweets @ChamberofBenn.