Iona College has finalized an agreement with Concordia College New York to acquire its 28-acre Bronxville campus.
In January 2021, Concordia became yet another of many higher education institutions that have had to close its doors in recent years, joining neighboring schools such as the College of New Rochelle, which closed in 2019, and Dowling College in 2016.
The financial pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic have placed many institutions in difficult situations, including Concordia. The agreement between the two schools has set the stage for Iona to pursue plans for a school of health sciences on Iona’s new Bronxville campus, furthering Iona’s strategic investment in the field and building upon Concordia’s legacy of excellence in health science education.
“Concordia will forever leave its mark on the history and people of New York. Iona is an institution similarly grounded in faith, and it is our intention to fully honor Concordia’s legacy as we turn the page to a new chapter.”
Seamus Carey, Ph.D., President, Iona College
Westchester County Executive George Latimer said, “Preserving access to higher education in Westchester County is absolutely essential not only for our students and families but for our economy. While it is bittersweet to see the 140-year legacy of Concordia College coming to a close, Iona’s shared commitment to faith, opportunity and the transformative power of education will be a benefit to both Westchester County and New York State. As higher education across the nation is under strain, Westchester County is fortunate to be home to such leading institutions.”
“The Business Council of Westchester applauds Iona and Concordia for reaching this agreement. Higher education is a key driver of economic prosperity not just for students but for Westchester County and New York State. It is especially encouraging to see Iona’s commitment to preparing future health care professionals, who are so vitally needed in our region and beyond,” Business Council of Westchester President and CEO Marsha Gordon said.
The deal also creates opportunities for Iona to introduce new student programming in the performing arts, varsity and club athletics and other extracurricular activities, areas where Iona has successfully been engaging students around shared interests. Iona has recently announced the hiring of its inaugural directors of Club Sports and Performing Arts, two new roles that will further this mission of assisting students in expanding their horizons and learning outside the lines.
“Engaged students get more out of their college experience,” Carey said. “Engagement outside the classroom supports better performance inside the classroom and promotes physical, mental and spiritual maturity. It also leads to lasting relationships that will help them succeed in life. We couldn’t be more excited about the future at Iona, and today is an important step along that path.”
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