February 2, 2026 | DI In the News
February 2, 2026
President Doucette announces a proposed change of ownership anticipated to be completed later this Spring.
I am thrilled to share an important update about the future of Design Institute of San Diego. Later this spring, ownership of Design Institute of San Diego will transfer to Torreyana College, LLC. Torreyana College, LLC will be ultimately owned by Bradley Palmer who runs a family office, Palm Ventures, that invests in educational institutions. This proposed strategic acquisition is designed to strengthen the institution’s mission and expand opportunities for students, faculty, alumni, and industry partners. It is expected that the sale should be completed in the second quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. Torreyana College, LLC will be the operating entity for Design Institute of San Diego, and it will continue to operate as Design Institute of San Diego. Bradley Palmer and Palm Ventures have over 20 years of postsecondary education industry experience. Design Institute of San Diego will continue to maintain the mission, vision, and values it was founded on. The academic focus will continue to be on design education, which now includes expanding into related design fields that provide strong career opportunities for graduates. There will be no changes to your educational experience as a result of this change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has DI signed an agreement for a change of ownership?
The Board of Directors and Executive Leadership, in line with the strategic planning process, had explored opportunities to further support growth and advance DI’s vision of being a leader in design education. This led to a successful search for a strategic financial partner or buyer.
Who is the entity that DI has entered into an agreement with?
The new entity that will be operating DI is called Torreyana College, LLC. Torreyana College, LLC will be ultimately owned by Bradley Palmer who runs a family office, Palm Ventures, that invests in educational institutions. Torreyana College, LLC will be the operating entity for Design Institute of San Diego, and it will continue to operate as Design Institute of San Diego. Bradley Palmer and Palm Ventures have over 20 years of post-secondary education industry experience including ownership in the following colleges and universities:
What will the name of the school be after the sale?
The new owner will be keeping the name of the school which will remain as Design Institute of San Diego.
When is the change of ownership expected to occur?
It is anticipated that the change of ownership will occur in the second quarter of 2026. DI will continue to communicate all updates to the community as they are available.
What changes can we expect to see with the change of ownership?
It is expected that there will be very little change that is noticeable, particularly for the immediate future. All functions and support services will remain rooted at the DI campus. Current faculty and staff will also continue in their roles.
At some point after the sale is completed, Margot Doucette, DI’s President, will assist the Board of Directors with a search for a new President/CEO and will remain active to ensure a smooth transition.
Is the DI campus moving or closing?
No – there are no plans to move or close the campus.
Will DI merge with another school?
DI will not merge with another institution and will continue to operate independently with the support of a new owner experienced in higher education and sharing a similar strategic vision supporting carefully curated growth and strategic planning.
The academic focus will continue to be on design education, which now includes expanding into related design fields that provide strong career opportunities for graduates. DI will continue to operate with its own policies, procedures, and academic structure.
Will my current program or courses change?
Students currently enrolled in the BFA or MID programs will continue with their existing curriculum and courses as they are currently offered.
Will the accreditation status change?
No changes will occur in the accreditation status for the institution. WSCUC will be reviewing the change of ownership, and approval will be required prior to completion of the transaction.
What programs will DI be offering and when?
DI will be launching three new programs in summer or fall 2026:
All the programs have been approved by WSCUC and are eligible for financial aid, for those who qualify.
An updated Catalog and a refreshed website are planned for publication by the end of the spring 2026 semester. Feel free to reach out to admissions@disd.edu – if you have an interest in one of the new programs or have questions about the change in ownership.