An alumni group, the Wells Legacy Society, has raised alarms over the future of Wells College in Aurora claiming the historic campus faces “irreparable harm” due to recent actions by the college’s leadership.
Following the college’s closure announcement in April, outside firms, including auction house Christie’s, were hired to manage the sale of campus assets and provide preservation advice.
The board of trustees recently confirmed winterizing efforts, such as draining pipes and using antifreeze, though buildings will not be heated—an approach Christie’s recommended to prevent mold growth. However, preservation experts have expressed concerns about the methods.
The campus, home to buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was nominated for the Preservation League’s “Seven to Save” program for 2025-26.
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