Colleges are game to collaborate these days, and do so in a variety of ways: A consortium allows member colleges to expand academic offerings and increase purchasing power. The consolidation of a public-college system could lead to financial savings and a stronger student experience. And when a struggling college might otherwise fail, a well-thought-out merger can benefit both institutions. While the huge wave of college closings predicted by some experts hasn’t materialized, institutions of all sizes are feeling financial pressure. For some, joining forces offers a solution.