The Loyola Retreat Center has been a sanctuary of personal growth and reflection for numerous students, faculty, and alumni since 2007. It stands as a place where many of us have found peace, clarity, and a deeper connection to ourselves away from the academic hustle and bustle. Situated in the mountains of western Maryland, the Retreat Center offers a unique environment away from the distractions of daily life. 

Regrettably, the administration is planning to close and sell the retreat center. This decision was made as part of the Operational Excellence initiative which aims to eliminate Loyola's budget deficit. At the end of May 2026, retreats will conclude and the Retreat Center's three employees will be laid off. The Retreat Center will be put on the market in the fall of 2026. 

This decision will have a profound impact on the Loyola community, removing a vital space for these transformative experiences. The Retreat Center has played a pivotal role in enhancing the mental health and well-being of students. Access to such a resource is more critical now than ever, as students face increasing stress and emotional challenges.

Loyola is beginning the search for a new location (or locations) for future retreats, but the Retreat Center cannot be so easily replaced. The value of having a place that belongs to us and allows students to feel a connection to the location, returning to the same place year after year and building relationships with the Retreat Center staff should not be underestimated. 

The university administration should consider the profound legacy and ongoing benefits that the Retreat Center provides. Selling it will undermine Loyola's mission of fostering holistic development and supporting student success. We, therefore, urge the decision-makers not only to reconsider this move, but also to re-evaluate their decision-making process to make sure that student, faculty, and alumni voices are heard at every step of the way. Such important decisions cannot be made based solely on analysis of space usage and desires for cost-cutting. The human, spiritual needs must be weighed as well. 

We appeal to everyone who is committed to these values to join us in showing our support. By signing this petition, you are sending the message that you care about the Retreat Center and everything it stands for, and that you believe community voices need to be heard when making such major decisions.