Note: To make a donation to the Cleveland Commission for Wells, visit clevelandcommissionforwells.org

To The Honorable Letitia James, Attorney General of the State of New York, Office of the New York State Attorney General, The Capitol,           Albany NY 12224-0341

We the undersigned (alumnae/i/x, former professors, former staff, community members, and supporters) endorse the Cleveland Commission for Wells (CCFW) as the most appropriate buyer of the Wells College campus and steward of the Wells College endowment, its records, archives and artifacts.

The Commission, a pending 501(c)(3), formed in the aftermath of the College’s unexpected closure on June 30, 2024. The Commission has immersed itself in uncovering the reasons for the closure and sought accountability for it. The Commission’s mission has always been to save Wells. A better and brighter version of Wells is underway in the Commission’s plans.

Reopening the College on its intact campus is the swiftest way to restore the 156 years of harmony and mutual benefit that existed between the College and the Village of Aurora, stabilizing the community and Cayuga County by restoring a critical long-term employer with positive tourism impacts. Their goals are shared widely by the community. The Village of Aurora has publicly stated its preference that the campus remain intact and for the purpose of higher education. 

The Commission is committed to working cooperatively with existing and prospective partners including the Village of Aurora, Peachtown Elementary School, the Community Medical Center, the Wells Legacy Society, the Hiawatha Institute, the Aurora Ledyard Historical Society, and others. The Commission wants to renew the long-standing partnership between the Village of Aurora and Wells, and bring exciting new opportunities to the community. 

Preservation of rural communities and one as picturesque as Aurora is of compelling economic, historic, and social value. Continuing the use of the campus for its original purpose —higher education— enriches the educational resources that are the hallmark of New York State and limits the potential for community upheaval and uncertainty if developers acquire the campus. 

This venerable and beloved College was treated poorly in its closure. We strongly urge you to right this injustice with your support of the Commission’s bid to revive the College, acquire the campus, and receive the Wells College endowment, records, archives, and artifacts. Thank you for your consideration.