Officials from Drexel University and the Academy of Natural Sciences are meeting to discuss their partnership, with a potential split on the table. One anonymous source indicated this could be a possible outcome, but there might also be attempts for reconciliation. They noted that depending on both sides’ adherence to previous terms, the status could remain peaceful.
Drexel and the Academy affiliated in 2011, merging certain operations while retaining separate boards. Recently, Drexel urged the Academy to merge fully or risk disaffiliation, which has sparked negotiations for a new agreement.
Both institutions refrained from commenting on the recent meeting’s results. Plans have also been revealed to close the Academy’s museum, relocate its 19 million specimens, and sell its building. Protestors have called for disaffiliation, and Drexel has offered an option for such a move.
Recent Developments
- The William Penn Foundation offered to support the Academy’s operating costs for a year while searching for solutions.
- The Academy has seen significant community opposition to its closure, with protests and over 100,000 petition signatures gathered.
- Attendance has declined over the years, with 126,000 visitors in fiscal year 2025, down from 208,000 in 2014.
After a recent board meeting, Drexel asserted its focus on safeguarding the Academy’s collections while developing a sustainable long-term model for public engagement. There has been no formal proposal from the William Penn Foundation, but discussions are ongoing.
