Nazareth University’s credit rating reaffirmed by Standard & Poor's at BBB+ with a stable outlook
Standard & Poor’s Global Ratings reaffirmed its BBB+ long-term rating on the Monroe County Industrial Development Corp., N.Y.'s existing revenue bonds, issued for Nazareth University, with a stable outlook on July 21, 2026. Nazareth held strong with the same rating it had in 2025. This is a significant accomplishment for Nazareth at a time when the not-for-profit higher education sector faces multiple fiscal challenges.
“To be reaffirmed with a stable outlook in the current climate is a notable accomplishment,” said Karen Kuppinger, vice president for finance and administration. “It is a testament to Nazareth’s prudent and disciplined financial stewardship strategies, and it speaks well to the University’s sustainable financial future.”
S&P noted that the stable outlook reflects its expectation that, over the next two years, Nazareth will maintain relatively stable enrollment, achieve a balanced budget in fiscal year 2027, and navigate a smooth presidential transition.
Those expectations are already reflected in several positive indicators. Nazareth President Maureen Finney became the University’s 11th president on July 1, 2026, after serving as provost since 2022, and fall 2026 new first-time in college student deposits are currently five percent ahead of this time last year and above budgeted targets.
“Nazareth is an institution with momentum, rooted in mission, defined by opportunity, and driven by people who believe deeply in the power of education to transform lives,” said Dr. Maureen Finney, president of Nazareth University. “Our financial strength allows us to invest in our mission, support our students, and create new opportunities for our faculty and staff. This latest S&P rating affirms the University's strong foundation and positions us well to continue building an even brighter future.”
Contact
Julie Long | Chief PR Officer | jlong2@naz.edu | (585) 389-2456 | (585) 781-8186 (cell)
Nazareth University is an inclusive community of inspired learners, educators, and changemakers who for 100 years have been driven by a bold commitment to action, empathy, equity, and leading innovation for the common good. Impact experiences are at the heart of a Nazareth education, preparing each student to discover within themselves the potential to cultivate positive change in their life's work, in any career field, and in a world that is constantly evolving and infinitely interconnected.
Our broad academic offerings present a range of study options typical of larger universities, yet achieved in our supportive campus culture. Nearly 2,100 undergrad and 600 graduate students enroll in degree and certificate programs and engage in collaborative, transformative learning experiences, preparing for the professions and society of today and tomorrow. In a learning community that purposefully integrates liberal arts and professional programs, Nazareth University graduates are able to launch a lifetime of impactful leadership in communities and workplaces near and far.
