Aurora, New York, January 11, 2026
The Hiawatha Institute for Indigenous Knowledge has acquired the historic Wells College campus in Aurora, New York, for $12.5 million. This acquisition follows Wells College’s closure in 2024 after 156 years. The institute plans to transform the campus into an accredited college focused on Indigenous studies, alongside residential and commercial developments aimed at revitalizing the community and preserving the campus’s architectural integrity.
Hiawatha Institute Acquires Wells College Campus for $12.5 Million
Aurora, New York – The Hiawatha Institute for Indigenous Knowledge, a nonprofit organization dedicated to Indigenous education and community development, has acquired the historic Wells College campus in Aurora, New York, for $12.5 million. This acquisition follows the closure of Wells College in 2024 after 156 years of operation. The purchase was finalized after the Hiawatha Institute’s second offer, submitted in June 2025, was accepted in December 2025. The acquisition is expected to close in early spring 2026, pending regulatory approvals, including from the New York Attorney General’s Office.
Plans for the Campus
The Hiawatha Institute intends to transform the 127-acre campus into an accredited college focused on Indigenous studies. The redevelopment will occur in two phases:
- Phase I – “Peachtown”: Conversion of three former dormitories into 80 to 100 market-rate apartments, with rents below the regional median. Commercial spaces will be developed for retail use, with all for-profit ventures subject to local taxation.
- Phase II: Establishment of the Indigenous College, offering semester-long residencies for students from accredited universities, focusing on Indigenous art, language, history, and environmental studies. Visiting faculty will reside on-site to reduce administrative overhead and promote a mission-driven model.
Additionally, the Hiawatha Institute plans to create a land trust to manage leases and direct surplus revenue to the institute. Events like the Santa Fe Indian Market and proposed partnerships with groups such as the Haudenosaunee Nationals and Native American Music Awards are expected to generate additional income. The campus will remain open to the public, fostering a village-like atmosphere rooted in Indigenous values of shared community. The nonprofit has pledged to preserve the campus’s architectural integrity and prioritize former Wells staff for new employment opportunities.
Background
Wells College, founded in 1868, closed in 2024 due to financial challenges. The campus was subsequently listed for sale, attracting multiple offers. The Hiawatha Institute’s acquisition is part of a broader effort to revitalize the area and promote Indigenous education. The institute’s proposal emphasizes the site’s historical significance and its potential to serve as a center for Indigenous studies and community development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Hiawatha Institute for Indigenous Knowledge?
The Hiawatha Institute for Indigenous Knowledge is a nonprofit organization dedicated to Indigenous education and community development.
Why did Wells College close?
Wells College closed in 2024 after 156 years of operation due to financial challenges.
What are the plans for the Wells College campus?
The Hiawatha Institute plans to redevelop the campus into an accredited college focused on Indigenous studies, with additional residential and commercial developments.
When is the sale expected to close?
The sale is expected to close in early spring 2026, pending regulatory approvals.
How will the redevelopment benefit the community?
The redevelopment aims to revitalize the area, promote Indigenous education, and create economic opportunities through residential and commercial developments.
Key Features of the Redevelopment Plan
| Phase | Description |
|---|---|
| Phase I – “Peachtown” | Conversion of three former dormitories into 80 to 100 market-rate apartments and development of commercial retail spaces. |
| Phase II | Establishment of the Indigenous College offering semester-long residencies focused on Indigenous studies. |
| Land Trust | Creation of a land trust to manage leases and direct surplus revenue to the institute. |
| Community Events | Hosting events like the Santa Fe Indian Market and partnerships with groups such as the Haudenosaunee Nationals and Native American Music Awards to generate additional income. |
| Public Access | Maintaining public access to the campus to foster a village-like atmosphere rooted in Indigenous values of shared community. |
| Employment Opportunities | Prioritizing former Wells staff for new employment opportunities. |
Now Happening on X
- @syracusedotcom (January 9, 2026): Wells College agrees to sell campus to nonprofit group that promotes Native American history. View on X
- @hpatrinos (January 10, 2026): Indigenous education nonprofit buys Wells College campus for $12.5 million. View on X
- @BusinessNYS (January 8, 2026): Discussion on how adequate funding for New York higher-education institutions supports job creation, innovation, and a talent pipeline. View on X
- @EMPIREREPORTNY (January 8, 2026): Investing in higher education creates prosperous communities across New York. View on X
- @NewsregisterANR (January 7, 2026): Surge in housing developments and construction activity in Aurora reached over $17.3 million in 2025. View on X
- @seacoastonline (January 8, 2026): Kennebunks, Ogunquit, Wells and York brace for big year of development. View on X
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