Following Wells College’s abrupt closure in May 2024, two distinct proposals have emerged to repurpose the historic campus. Initially, the Hiawatha Institute for Indigenous Knowledge submitted an independent bid aimed at transforming the site into an Indigenous-focused institution. However, this bid was later rescinded, and the institute joined forces with organizations proposing to create a mixed-use campus, combining Indigenous education initiatives with new housing, while preserving local institutions like the Community Medical Center and Peachtown Elementary School.
Separately, the Cleveland Commission for Wells, composed of dedicated alumni and experienced professionals, seeks to restore Wells College as an academic institution. The commission is collaborating with local organizations to revitalize the campus, aiming to continue its educational legacy.
With the campus assessed at $8.5 million and currently listed for sale, alumni and preservationists advocate for solutions that support both the local community and historical preservation. Additionally, these groups are calling for public backing and state intervention to ensure a sustainable and community-focused future for the historic site.
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