Wells College Campus Sold to Hiawatha Institute for Indigenous Knowledge
In a significant turn of events, the Wells College Board of Trustees has agreed to sell its historic campus in Aurora, New York, to the Hiawatha Institute for Indigenous Knowledge, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering Indigenous education and community development. The decision comes as a response to the closure of Wells College in 2024, after 156 years of operation, sparking a series of offers for its campus.
A Tale of Offers and Acceptance
The Hiawatha Institute’s initial offer, amounting to $10.8 million, was made in June 2025 but was ultimately overshadowed by a second offer of $12.5 million, which the board accepted this week. Les Lo Baugh, the chair, president, and founding member of the Hiawatha Institute, revealed to The Post Standard that the funding for this important acquisition will be facilitated through a loan from the Native American Bank.
The campus’s rich historical fabric, intertwined with the legacy of the Cayuga Nation, played a critical role in the Institute’s decision to pursue the acquisition. According to the Institute’s website, the land “was identified as the location for the future Indigenous College,” emphasizing its cultural and historical significance.
Building an Indigenous College
One of the most exciting prospects following the sale is the proposed establishment of an accredited college focused on Indigenous studies. This initiative aims to create educational programming rooted in the values and traditions of Indigenous communities. The vision includes offering semester-long residencies for students from accredited institutions to delve into Indigenous art, language, history, and environmental studies.
A leaner administrative structure is also part of the plan, with visiting faculty living onsite to streamline operations and maintain a mission-driven approach.
Two-Phase Redevelopment
The Hiawatha Institute is set to roll out a comprehensive two-phase redevelopment plan, intending to marry cultural preservation with economic revitalization.
Phase I, known as “Peachtown,” has ambitious plans to transform three former dormitories into 80 to 100 market-rate apartments. The aim is to ensure rents remain below the regional median, making housing more accessible for the community. Commercial partnerships are also in the works to create build-to-suit retail spaces, all of which will adhere to local taxation laws.
Phase II will focus on establishing the Indigenous College, a unique educational space designed to honor Indigenous cultural practices and knowledge. The college will not only serve as an educational institution but also as a community hub, encouraging collaboration and cultural exchange.
Economic and Community Impact
Beyond education, the Hiawatha Institute aims to create various revenue streams to sustain its mission. It plans to set up a land trust to manage leases and dedicate surplus revenue to community activities and educational programs. Proposed partnerships with notable events like the Santa Fe Indian Market and collaborations with organizations such as the Haudenosaunee Nationals and Native American Music Awards are expected to further enhance financial stability.
The Institute envisions the campus as more than just an educational facility; it aims to create a welcoming environment open to the public and reflective of Indigenous values – fostering a village-like atmosphere built on community and shared resources.
Preserving the Past while Shaping the Future
A critical component of the Hiawatha Institute’s plans includes preserving the architectural integrity of the Wells campus. The nonprofit has emphasized that protecting the historical structures will be at the forefront of its redevelopment efforts. Moreover, there’s a commitment to prioritize hiring former Wells College staff, ensuring that those who dedicated their careers to education in Aurora remain involved in the community’s growth.
Looking Ahead
As the sale process is expected to finalize in early spring, there is palpable excitement surrounding the future of the Wells College campus. The Hiawatha Institute’s commitment to Indigenous education, cultural preservation, and community development promises to breathe new life into the historic site, transforming it into a beacon of hope and learning for generations to come.
