Eastern University has completed the purchase of a 33.3-acre portion of Valley Forge Military College’s property.
The agreement was first announced in December, contingent upon the due diligence process. All necessary regulatory and other approvals have been obtained, and the transaction officially closed on Feb. 27.
The portion of property, which lies less than a mile away from Eastern’s campus, includes the football stadium, track, and athletic fieldhouse that Eastern has been leasing from VFMC since 2021. The property also includes several apartment buildings, some of which will be used to house Eastern’s expanding on-campus community, along with additional fields, buildings, and pickleball courts.
“This is an exciting time for Eastern University,” said President Ronald Matthews. “This expansion speaks volumes about our commitment to expanding access to a multi-faceted, high-quality education. By securing these facilities, we are ensuring our students have the resources, space, and community they need to thrive on our campus. We are deeply grateful for our longstanding relationship with VFMC and their partnership throughout this process.”
While Valley Forge Military’s Academy branch (7th-12th grade) announced its closing, the College will continue to operate in the same capacity on its main campus.
“This agreement marks an important step forward for both institutions,” said Col. Stuart Helgeson, President of Valley Forge Military College. “It’s a clear win for VFMC, Eastern, and our surrounding community. It gives both schools a strong path ahead, protects what matters most in our missions, and strengthens the support we can provide to students and the region we call home.”
Eastern has experienced tremendous growth over the last six years, with total enrollment nearing 10,000 students this fall. While a majority of the university’s growth has come from its popular online LifeFlex programs, on-campus enrollment has grown as well. Innovative new academic programs and dynamic co- and extracurricular activities, including new NCAA Division III athletic programs and vibrant arts, have fueled the growth.
“This acquisition represents a forward-thinking investment in Eastern’s future,” said Trevor Jackson, Vice President for Finance and Operations. “Adding this beautiful property to our already flourishing campus strengthens our long-term financial position and allows us to support the continued growth of our student body for generations to come. We look forward to continuing our strong and collaborative relationship with VFMC as neighboring institutions.”
Learn more about Eastern University and how its core values of faith, reason, and justice are woven into all of its educational programs.
