Wells College to shut down operations this spring

Wells College, a historic institution in Aurora, New York, has announced that it will be closing its doors at the end of the current academic semester. With over 150 years of history, the college cited inadequate financial resources as the primary reason for the closure.

In a statement on its website, Wells College mentioned that the challenges they faced were further exacerbated by the global pandemic, a declining pool of undergraduate students nationwide, inflationary pressures, and a negative sentiment towards higher education. Despite efforts from the college’s board to find creative solutions to raise revenue and avoid closure, the financial stability of the institution could not be guaranteed.

For current students enrolled at Wells College, the institution has reached an agreement with Manhattanville University in Purchase. Manhattanville University will serve as the preferred teach-out partner, ensuring that Wells’ students can continue their education seamlessly. Manhattanville is also developing dedicated housing for Wells students and will support them with transfer plans. Additionally, there are discussions about integrating the Wells College name and history into the Manhattanville community through a legacy agreement.

The college has promised to provide more information and address questions from students, faculty, staff, and the community in the coming days. The closure of Wells College marks the end of an era for the institution and its long-standing legacy in higher education.