SUA and Middlebury Open New Chapter

On May 11, 2026, Soka University of America (SUA), shared exciting news regarding the potential purchase of the Middlebury Institute of International Studies (MIIS) campus. The boards of trustees of SUA and Middlebury have authorized a letter of intent and are currently working toward finalizing the agreement.

SUA and Middlebury have already shared a three-year academic partnership through collaborative master’s programs. Honoring the history and legacy of MIIS while continuing this collaboration with SUA, the Monterey campus could potentially become a new graduate campus known as the Monterey Institute of International Studies at Soka University of America.

As part of this next step, SUA is exploring the expansion of graduate programs in areas such as “nonproliferation and terrorism studies, threat intelligence, international policy and development/global governance, and translation and localization management.”^[1] Specific program details are still being discussed and finalized.

Both SUA and Middlebury share a strong commitment to global citizenship and creating peace in the world through education. Middlebury representatives said, “We are pleased that this transaction will enable certain MIIS programs to continue their legacy of making a difference in the world.”^[2] SUA’s President Edward Feasel stated, “SUA founder Daisaku Ikeda believed that education was humanity’s most powerful instrument for peace and global citizenship. MIIS shares a similar belief and ethos. Bringing these two institutions together honors and strengthens both of us.”^[3]

With both institutions rooted in similar values, this potential partnership carries the hope of continuing to foster global leaders who are empowered to contribute to peace, dialogue and meaningful change in the world.