Adelphi University Charts Course for the Future With Strategic Investments Following a BBB+ Rating and Stable Outlook From S&P Global Ratings

A new 'stable outlook' designation from S&P Global reflects Adelphi's strategic investments in the future.

Adelphi University is reaffirming its commitment to strategic growth and modernization following a Standard & Poor's (S&P) Global Ratings Research Update issued on January 30, 2026. While the agency adjusted the University's long-term bond rating from A- to BBB+, S&P simultaneously assigned a stable outlook and affirmed Adelphi's strong enterprise risk profile, validating the institution's careful, long-term approach to its financial and academic mission.

"The 'stable outlook' designation from S&P Global Ratings gives our students and families peace of mind. It reinforces that Adelphi remains a safe investment and Adelphi is a great place for students to grow, learn and belong to a community that is built to last," noted Interim President Christopher Storm, PhD.

The BBB+ rating reflects two strategic initiatives:

• New funding to upgrade facilities and resources on campus, ensuring our students have access to top-tier environments
• The launch of Adelphi's new Manhattan Center for high-demand professional programs

"We've entered a transformative era for Adelphi. By leveraging our robust endowment returns and the advantage of current low interest rates, we are prioritizing high-impact strategic investments that would otherwise be out of reach," said Michael Rhattigan, Adelphi's vice president of finance. "This is an investment in Adelphi's excellence that will yield significant dividends for our students and community for years to come."

Key Strengths of Adelphi Highlighted by S&P Global Ratings

The S&P report confirmed several positive indicators of Adelphi's stability and operational efficiency.

The agency recognizes the success the University has made in aligning expenses and substantially reducing the post-pandemic operating deficit. Furthermore, the S&P report reflects the view that the University's finance team "prudently manages financial operations and operating costs."

The report also notes that despite Adelphi's ongoing presidential transition, the appointment of its longtime provost as interim president has provided continuity and consistent forward momentum. Meanwhile, the leadership team has remained stable in recent years, implementing proactive and effective strategies as part of the University's long-term strategic plan.

At the same time, Adelphi compares favorably to its rating-category peers in critical areas, most notably with stronger first-year student retention rates and a lower tuition discount rate.

Strategic Investments for a Stronger Future

The Adelphi University Board of Trustees and leadership view the new investments as essential for strengthening the University's long-term financial health:

"The board viewed this as a necessary and timely window of opportunity. To fulfill our long-term strategic plans, we must be willing to make bold investments that strengthen our foundation," said Greg Carey, Adelphi trustee and chairman of public finance and global co-head of sports franchise at Goldman Sachs. "This decision reflects our absolute confidence in Adelphi's trajectory and our commitment to providing a premier environment for higher learning."

These campus upgrades ensure that Adelphi students receive an exceptional academic experience, while our new long-term lease for the Manhattan Center establishes a vibrant hub for graduate studies, strategic partnerships and expanded career opportunities in New York City.

Together, these large-scale investments strengthen Adelphi's foundation and secure our historic mission for future generations of Adelphi students.