Wells Alumna Proposes “Minerva Institute” Plan for Aurora Campus

A Wells College alumna has submitted a proposal to purchase the former Aurora campus and transform it into an educational institute centered on lifelong learning.

According to reporting by Robert Harding of The Auburn Citizen, Harriet Higgins, a 1972 graduate of Wells College, confirmed that she made an offer to acquire the 127-acre property. If approved by the college’s board of trustees, Higgins’ proposal would establish “The Minerva Institute, at Aurora-on-Cayuga.”

The plan outlines a phased approach. Initial efforts would focus on renovating existing campus facilities and launching non-credit programs aimed at continuing education. Higgins also proposed upgrades to the Community Medical Center located on campus, including the addition of urgent care services and related medical infrastructure.

A second phase would involve pursuing accreditation for a small undergraduate liberal arts program, in partnership with the Cleveland Commission for Wells. Additional programming described in the proposal includes summer arts and science festivals and specialized camps.

The final phase would introduce a residential learning program designed for adults age 55 and older, centered on ongoing intellectual and cultural engagement.

Higgins is one of several known bidders for the campus, which Wells College is required to sell as part of its dissolution process following its closure in 2024. The property was marketed by CBRE, and the college has confirmed that multiple offers were submitted. The board of trustees is currently reviewing those proposals.

Source: Robert Harding, The Auburn Citizen, “Wells College alumna unveils ‘Minerva Institute’ plan after submitting offer to buy campus,” April 5, 2025 (updated May 10, 2025).