UPDATE: Interesting that also about 85% of alumnae currently responding to an adminstration poll want to somehow or other keep the word "Alumnae" in our graduates' association; only about 15% can stomach belonging an Alumni Association. Participate in this poll now.
RESULTS OF EMAIL SURVEY SENT TO 1,455 WELLS COLLEGE ALUMNAE*
Overwhelming Lack of Support for Coeducation!
Do you believe that there are reasons for Wells to remain a women's college? (check if Yes) 84.2%
Are you convinced that coeducation is required for the survival of Wells College? (check if Yes) 16.9%
Which, if any, of the following options to transition towards coeducation at Wells College would you support? (Check all that apply.)
-- Immediate (Fall 2005, per Trustees' decision)12.3%
-- Incremental (e.g. Book Arts, Int’l Studies, other special programs) 30%
-- Two years before residential coeducation 5.7%
-- Four years before residential coeducation 12.9%
-- None 19.3%
-- Other (please comment) 42.5%
Do you consider shortfalls in finances to be more a result of the women’s education mission of Wells College, or of the failure of college management in admissions and marketing?(drop-down list)
-- Mission 6.0%
-- Management 59.9%
-- Neither 12.5%
-- Both 21.5%
Have all other alternatives been tried and evaluated such that Wells College now has no option other than coeducation to enable the college to be financially viable? (check if Yes) 12.8%
Has the process and communication leading to the decision to become coeducational been sufficient for such a fundamental change in the institution? (Check if Yes) 12.3%
Do you support the students’ organized action and their demand that the trustees allow the Wells community three years to achieve the stated enrollment objectives? (Check if Yes) 78.5%
Would you support the creation of an escrow account for contributions to Wells College, for release of funds upon reversal of the decision to become co-educational in 2005? (Check if Yes) 70.3%
Would you commit to making Wells College a top philanthropic priority if Wells College re-commits to the mission of women’s education? (Check if Yes) 62.4%
*** Surveys were sent to all alumnae for whom valid email addresses were found on the college web site, in the Express, in on-line searches, through list serves, or obtained from class secretaries and other alumnae. The 1,455 women contacted represent a substantial portion of the approximately 5,000 living alumnae listed with known addresses in the current print directory. The high repsonse rate of 25.5% received from this group yielded a statistically significant sample of alumnae opinion.
Homepage
COMMENTS: A WINDOW INTO THE SOUL OF WELLS
Reasons for Wells to remain a women's college:
I believe that a community of women helps the female student become stronger in her identity as a women and as an individual.
I transfered my second year at Wells and encountered a strong anti-woman academic bias at my second, co-ed college, as well as a general misogyny toward, and lack of safety for, female students around campus.
Sudden changes that cannot be revoked must be taken only after great deliberation by ALL those involved. This includes alumna whose hearts are involved, students whose academic lives are involved, faculty whose careers are involved...
There are options that have not yet been explored for monetary increase. If money truly is the guiding factor of the decision, shouldn't we try other options first?
Our strong history as a college to educate women; because single-sex education works (see Stop the Gender Politics and Start Studying, an op-ed article by Cornelius H. Riordan on 9/7/03 in Boston Globe)
Women's colleges more fully support women's intellectual development, women have more opportunities for leadership positions.
It is akin to changing your religion. Your values are nolonger the same. You are not the same person. If you go co-ed, you need to change the name of the school, because it is nolonger Wells college.
choice
I saw what a difference ONE man can make in a class back in 1982-4: Women shut up. Some women get more focussed on impressing or flirting than on studying.
It was founded with the purpose of being a place of higher learning for women. Its locale puts it in a proximity to a dozen co-ed institutions but it has always and should always remain a unique educational opportunity for women.
It is often difficult for female students to get the attention they need. Single-sex education is also important so women do not feel intimidated if they participate in a field that is traditionally male-dominated.
Yes; Wells is a world where shy and weak women are given the opportunity to become strong. Not everyone is brought up with a high level of confidence. Wells provides the opportunity to become a real, live woman.
The uniqueness of a Wells education is precisely because of the fact that it is a women's college which promotes leadership and academic achievement of its students without the negative pressures/distractions/influences of a coed environment.
I value my education at Wells. My favorite thing to say about this is that I was the editor of the Wells student newspaper (the Courier at the time), an opportunity that most likely would have been out of my reach at a coed college.
Henry Wells founded our college to give women an education equal to that of the then all-men's Cornell. Wells teaches women to be strong, believe in themselves, and to strive for goals that might otherwise be inaccessible.
Because Wells is so small, being single sex *enhances* its marketablility. Otherwise it has no good selling points. You can get a good liberal arts education almost anywhere.
Wells College was founded as an all Women's College for women that is reason enough to not break traditon.
Women's education is still superior to co-ed educuation. I haven't heard any stats suggesting that has changed in the last few months. As long as that is the case, there is a need and a cause and a market for single-sex education.
Although it isn't extremely sought-after, many women DO seek an all-women's environment. After becoming co-ed, the specialness" is taken away
We need to focus on developing Wells' special strengths, such as building the new science building, adding Masters' Programs, using the campus in the summer for intensive study programs & developing an on-line study program for alumnae.
To remain a safe and nurturing place for girls to come into their own as strong, independent, women.
Wells builds strong independent women, while the addition of men in the classroom may change the dynamics of a Wells education
The board of trustees decision must be respected. Fingerpointing at the administration doesn't help anyone. Let's stand together and support the administration to ensure that Wells will be around for generations to come.
I would have no problems with Wells remaining a women's college if financial issues were not at stake.
Temporarily, to allow current students who object to men on campus to graduate or transfer.
Wells' mission is to educate women. The all women environment means that our expectations of what can do change for the better - we expect more of ourselves and each other.
Remaining a women's college will allow the students to find their voice. Women will be able to express their opinions and not feel intimidated in the classroom.
Only in the single sex environment will women learn to be strong leaders and learn to listen to and speak their own voice.
If for no other reason Wells College was founded by Henry Wells for the education of WOMEN!!! To continue with the name Wells for a co-ed institution is an insult to everything Wells was founded on and currently stands for.
Wells as a women's college is a unique institution in an area where there are many small coed liberal arts colleges. This uniqueness will disappear at a coed Wells. The history of Wells shows its commitment to women's education. Why deviate now?
Wells would lose it's uniqueness and individuality if it went coed.
There is strength in maintaining the women oriented mission. It is a show of weakness to abandon the mission. Wells might as well close, because it will not be Wells. I will not encourage my son to look at Wells if it remains open as a co-ed school.
Young women still desperately need the option to attend a single sex college where THEY are the priority and the leaders.
I believe in tradition. Women are entitled to an education unimpacted by traditional male views.
As an administrator of a community college, with a 30,000 student enrollment, I feel blessed EVERY day for my Wells education. It taught me to be independent, think on my own, and NEVER be intimidated by a male-dominated profession!
It's the founding mission, and part of why the current students chose to attend. It's a place for women to learn to lead, explore, and develop.
For all the reasons we all love Wells. The lack of need to dress "or "act a part" during the week
Women's education still has a place in a world in which women still make less money than men, are subject to repeated violence, and are restricted in their access to government, advanced degrees, and economic prosperity
Because there are still young women who prefer the environment of a single-sex institution and all that it has to offer.
Wells' mission is to educate women in a women-centered environment; the college cannot do so if it becomes co-ed.
Lesley Univer., Cambridge. Women's liberal arts coll.part of larger, co-ed instit. Book arts program, x-reg. & overseas progs are not degree granting but course work. To use these as we are already co-ed" is not a "truth.""
The very existence of Wells is due to the strong belief on the part of Henry Wells in women's education. I will submit further explanation in a separate email.
If Wells goes coed, it will lose the only edge it has. As a coed school, it will be just like EVERY other small private school in New York, and enrollment will fail even more.
The consistant decline in Wells enrollment indicates a need to bring in more students for financial stability.
Women need an educational arena in which they can easily take leadership roles without having to compete with men.
single sex education is the only appeal for Wells. Co-educational would make it like any other liberal arts school
The uniqueness and charm of Wells College will disappear if it becomes a coeducational institution. Historically, women's colleges do a better job of educating women.
Some women, who would fail in a coed setting, thrive in the environment.
The traditions, both educational and social, make Wells a special place. If it goes coed it will lose sight of its mission and will lose support of many current and past students and families.
Wells breeds exceptional women in ways that no co-ed institution could ever do; other women envy my experience at Wells and wish it for themselves and their daughters.
Women need a safe space where they are able to thrive, learn and grow. This space is not found in Coeducation College.
I loved my single education experience and feel that it is a strong part of who I am and why I am strong and independent.
Shift our strategy from women's only to women centric" education which allows for flexibility in enrolling men is specific programs
Value of single sex education; Wells Identity; Alumnae support which will be significantly diminished with it becomming coed.
Young women learn better in a single-sex environment. Society does not support vocal women, educated women, women leaders, Women⤙s' colleges should
Many women still need the atmosphere and opportunities provided at women's colleges. In addition, women significantly outnumber men in college. If Wells cannot survive as a women's college in these circumstances, how is going coed going to help?
The quality of the education and the experience gained by women who attend a women's college.
When I arrived at Wells, I was very shy. It quickly became apparent that I would have to know my views/opinions because the faculty expected it. I came out of my shell. I wouldn't have had the same education or friendships elsewhere.
It is important to provide women with an opportunityfor education where they are not always in competition with men.
It is the mission of the college.
There are so many co-educational options, while Wells offers a unique opportunity."
To provide a specifically *women's* learning space, where women's dreams are validated and encouraged.
WELLS as a womens college provides an environment where I feel women are more inclined to express themselves with a lot less inhibition.
tradition, sisterhood, educational opportunities. I f wells was co-ed when i attended I would NOT have developed into the strong, indepedent women I am today.
To me the care, nurturing and learning at womens colleges is superior to the coed experience. Wells has the best ingredients for educating exceptional young women/future leaders. Womens issues don’t get the same treatment at coed schools.
Women only education allows each woman to learn in a setting where they are not overpowered or intimidated by men. It allows students to concentrate on their education rather than be swayed by coeducational influences.
Wells was a wonderful place for higher education without the stresses of having a campus shared by young men. There are too few of these women's colleges left in the US, and the loss of one more women's instutution is devastating.
I believe that Wells has a unique edcuation to offer women.
Small but select company. Hang tough, Wells!
I feel co-education will change the character of the college completely, as if it was no longer the institution from which I had graduated. I do not like that feeling. I am not convinced it means the survival of the college.
Wells's uniqueness depends on its being a women's college. As a co-ed college it ceases to exist as Wells College.
Wells women learn to believe in and value themselves. At Wells we do not fear being compared to men and falling short - we welcome the challenge. However, our goal is to be the best we can be for ourselves, not better than the person next to us.
Being an all girls college allows the students to reach their full potential. There is the opportunity to excell in all areas without worrying about what the boys will think"."
Trying to fix Wells' problems by adding men is not necessarily going to be successful bc there is a decline in the # of men in college nationwide. Must engage the energy, passion of Wells students and the alums.
Of course it would be great if it could remain a women's college. However, the desire to attend a women's college is diminishing in this day & age.
Educating women in a single sex environment provides unique opportunities for leadership and community.
By becoming co-ed, Wells has lost its unique character and its strongest selling point. It now is a small liberal arts college in a sea of the same.
Many females need single-sex education at some point in their schooling in order to develop a clear and full sense of their intellects and effectiveness. Options for all-women's ed. are fewer and fewer, especially at the college level.
I chose Wells college because of its Honesty Policy and it was an all-female institution. At 18, I needed a supportive female environment to figure out who I was and to grow as an individual.
There is a place for girls to have the freedom to become women, intellectually and independently, and that is what Wells offers.
Wells women are a rare breed. There are more then enough women who would thrive at Wells. The goal of the college is to find and reach out to them.
To give young women a CHOICE of liberal arts education
Studies show that women who attend single-sex schools perform better compared to their co-ed counterparts. Second, the fact that Wells is a women's college is its primary competitive advantage, and it may not be able to compete in a co-ed market.
"To keep a standard of education whereby it is about knowledge. Focus on this and not be distracted allows for confidence and success.
Look at other schools like Wheaton who have done this have they increased revenues ?"
"To keep a standard of education whereby it is about knowledge. Focus on this and not be distracted allows for confidence and success.
Look at other schools like Wheaton who have done this have they increased revenues ?"
Tons of research supporting single sex experience for women. As a college professor at a co-ed institution, I daily see the downfalls for young women. Wells should focus on raising the quality of leadership and academics. Enrollments will follow.
The sense of sisterhood and the pride in being part of an almost 140 year legacy cannot exist in a co-ed environment. The kind of empowerment that is gained by learning at a women's college simply isn't possible anywhere else.
It's the historical mission.
Too few all women college's left.
Location and status are unique.
There will be a place for women's education until co-education equals single-sex education in its results for women. There are other women's colleges doing fine. Women's high schools prove that high-school aged women can be convinced of the benefits.
Young women still need a safe place in which to develop their leadership skills and time to find themselves" in a safe
There are too few opportunities for women to receive a high quality, committed education creating well-rounded individuals from professors dedicated to said ed. today, which is why Wells should remain a single-sex higher ed. institution.
Students need to have the opportunity to study with other women and have the full attention of the faculty. Too often classes are too big and there is no personal contact wit the professors at a co-ed institution.
Remaining a women's college maintains a unique factor for Wells and prserves the reason I grew at Wells and support Wells as an alum.
The Endowment is still strong, and there are many alternatives to co-education that should be exhausted before putting this plan into effect. A more aggressive comprehensive recruiting program would be a good start.
Working with women without the testoterone factor has been extremely valuable, as it has demonstrated how women can pull together and work as a team.
Attending a single sex college allows for the cultivation of life long relationships in a safe, less distracting environment.
I would not have gained the leadership skills or confidence that I did had I gone to a co-ed school. The close-knit community at Wells allows for tremendous growth without having to fight against men.
A single sex education provides an environment in which strong friendships are fostered and people have room to grow without the distractions of the dynamics between the sexes.
I believe that when young women are able to be in a classroom that emphasizes their participation, they will obtain not only a better education, but the self-confidence that they need to grow.
Dwindling numbers of women's colleges provide opportunities for those women's colleges that remain to increase their numbers with creative Admissions Office networking programs.
I think the traditions and the general set-up of Wells are designed for an all female populace. I think I benefitted from the supportive atmosphere that comes from being in a non co-ed environment.
I gained the self-confidence I never would have gotten from attending a co-ed school. Wells encouraged me to speak my mind and to believe in myself - something I do not think happens in co-ed environments.
There is much value in a single-sex education. Too many single-sex colleges have gone co-ed, why does Wells need to jump on the band wagon?! Wells is unique and by staying an all woman's college it will stay unique.
The best opportunity for some women is in a same-sex educational environment. Even today, some girls are less likely to be assertive in a classroom with boys in attendance.
History, location, size, community, alumnea relationship to faculty and current student body.Why not look for ways the college can add programs, increase enrollment and hold to the sanctity which is Wells?
Women's education is the college's primary mission. The college is too isolated to support growth as a nonspecialized liberal arts college.
Historic Identity
To offer alternative to coed schools
Women's education mission needs to be continued
Wells is foremost a women’s collage and should stay such. This is her mission, identity, legacy, success, and tradition. It is her strength not her weakness. What Wells needs is revitalize support base and vision not young men.
The value of a safe, nurturing (both academically and personally) environment for young women cannot be overstated. The entire nature of the college will be changed forever. I CANNOT believe that this change would be for the better!
"There arte few places where single sex education take place in the US. Wells College is one of those rare places.
I rather see the school close than to be COED!
Wells is one of the few places inthe country that offers single sex education. There are placed that are best suited for individual that need the special attention with special interest in either gender.I support those institution
tradition
heritage
founding vision
contribution to the concept of women's education
There are few places, such as all-women colleges, where a woman can learn to be a leader and get a quality education not only in terms of academics but of herself, her community and her place in the world as a woman.
Wells brings together a community of women to feel there are no boundries on expression. Being at Wells allowed me to find my true person and made me stronger having to focus only on me.
Wells would be no different from all of the other liberal arts college, should it go co-ed. Being a women's college makes it special and set-it apart from the generics.
I've emailed separately
I believe that a women's college still fullfills an academic and social need that a coed institution cannot emulate. There are many young women who will not fullfill their potential without the choice of a Women's College.
Women's education is an important part of creating equality in education. Professors who direct their attention to the ways in which women learn is important.
Even in the modern age
I went to Wells to focus on my education, not fashion, not who is dating who, not to feel outside of any popular girls clique.
i'd rather have wells go coed than go out of business" and not be a viable going concern. draining the reserve for ongoing expenses is not a sustainable strategy."
THE OPPORTUNITIES TO GAIN EXPERIENCE AS LEADERS AND ALSO SUCCEED IN ROLES PREDOMINANTLY HELD BY MEN IN SOCIETY AT LARGE.
there aren't many women's colleges left -- lack of choice is not good
The ways I changed and grew at Wells would not have happened in a coed environment.
We live in a world in which the illusion of equality of education and opportunity are writ large across all strata of society. Women's educational institutions are still a necessity.
I believe that many women perform better academically, and are exposed to and exhibit greater leadership skills, in a women's college environment.
the unique opportunities and learning environment afforded by the Wells experience, as a women's college, I fear will be lost should the institution no longer remain true to its mission of educating women
Our college's mission has always been to support the education of WOMEN. There are so few women's colleges left, yet it remains an important option that should be continued.
The mission of Wells has always been to provide opportunities for women that do not exist elsewhere. If it no longer has this mission, it should close.
It allows women to be able to take on leadership roles and speak up in a classroom setting, things they may not do if in a traditional college.
Single-sex makes Wells special; co-ed makes it a tiny school selling an excellent but unwanted program (liberal arts) in the middle of nowhere competing w/3,600+ other schools.
My four year experience at Wells helped me explore what it meant to be a women in today's marketplace and gave me the confidence to compete successfully in a male dominated field.
It's a rare, educational experience. The chance to be challenged by your fellow women. The opportunity to feel the strength and empowerment from women you learn to call your sisters.""
"150+ years of tradition, to start with
Overwhelming evidence that the endowment is not in jeapordy and clear indications that Wells has misappropriated funds in developing adminissions and retention strategies that have failed.
Wells status as a woman’s college is what make it marketable among the many small liberal arts colleges in the area. The closeness that the all female environment creates is unique to Wells.
There are very few women's institutions in the US and research has clearly demonstrated that women do better in an environment that encourages their development. Wells is both.
Men in class are a distraction. Wells has a long very female tradition, will lose its identity and contributions.
The only way I can articulate it is to say that Wells being and remaining a women's college is what makes Wells, Wells. Otherwise, Wells is just a small coed liberal arts college, and may be not a very competative one.
Provides a superior education for women; lets women find their own voices in their early years; creates strong women who become leaders in their fields
Too many reasons and too little time ... I will just say that women have not come as far as they might think and Wells still serves a vital role in creating women who can lead.
In the world of small colleges, what does Wells have that others don't? Strong, independent women who don't have to worry as much about patriarchal values inside their classrooms trying to keep them down.
Concentration on studying
Freedom to express womanhood more strongly
Excellent preparation for a competitive professional environment
Wells teaches women to be more assertive and aggressive in a small, single-sex environment. Once out of that environment, women find it easier to compete with men and in difficult environments in the working world.
A co-ed Wells limits students to just another coeducational institution".Wells provides opportunity for women to practice leadership in all venues.This gives women the confidence to pursue leadership roles and positions AFTER they leave Wells.
While I love the ideals of the college I realize things change. I would prefere to see that other avenues have been tried but if this is it for the college than I hope to presever the beauty and power behind an equal eduaction that Wells supports.
Self Confidence, ability for leadership, etc.
Simply put, Wells remaining a women's college is everything that Wells stands for and should remain so.
Research exists that implies that women's voices are more readily silenced in a co-ed atmosphere. Wells College smaller classrooms and a single-sex learning environments are condusive to higher learning for some women.
Wells as a women's college creates a safe space for women to explore and discover themselves and to evaluate their role in the real world where gender can limit us all.
Wells is one of the few women's colleges left in the country. I think it is important to preserve that tradition for any woman who decides that going to college in a single sex environment is beneficial for her; it was the best decision I ever made.
Wells has a responsibility not only to the young women of today to provide an educational environment unhindered by competition with male voices, but to the women who have come before who make up the Wells family.
I think that Wells would benefit in many ways from becoming co-ed
The Expresses over the past 20 years have detailed every possible marketing and admissions ploy to get students to come.
It promotes assertive, self-confident women. (when I was enrolled)
Tradition, learning models and experience.
The most rewarding experience to my development as a woman was my attending Wells. The achievements in my life are due to the empowerment of learning supported by a faculty that encouraged you to inspire, create and believe.
the integrity, and purpose of the college.there IS a place and a need for single sex education especially in CNY.There MUST be other ways for Wells to stay open rather than believing that men are the answer.
See separate e-mail
Women's colleges provide an atmosphere that allows women to flourish as active members of the community without ever experiencing backlash.
"The women's movement has been dormant for too long. Women need to exercise their voices at an early age. Wells allows them to do this in a way that a coeducational institution cannot.
Women's education is invaluable to women's equality.
Wells should remain true to being a women's college. Coeducational women-centered" extremely diffiicult to bring about; if the admin can't keep enrollment up
A single-sex educational experience is a powerful one for women. It allows young women the chance the grow and express themselves without the sometimes subtle biases and imbalances found at other co-ed institutions.
A Wells education is a uniquely outstanding experience due to its single-sex status. This experience includes a challenging, non-competitive atmosphere; unparalleled student camaraderie; and faculty skilled in relating to and teaching women.
It is unique because of it's single sex status. If it goes coed it becomes just another small liberal arts school.
Wells' uniqueness is in the community of young women that live and work there. Take that away and she is nothing.
Research and personal experience has shown that a women's school does a better job of impowering women. Statistical greater numbers of successful women graduated from women's schools, etc., etc.
"Wells special. Animals diminish-place on endangered list, preserve. Don't shoot rest for other use of space
Many coed institutions, but if looking for this: difficult to find. Experience unequalled-should continue.
commitment to the development of women not only in terms of education, but in terms of character and self confidence.
It simply must - and...why would a man want to come to Wells when he has so many other choices, all coed, in the vicinity?
wells should remain single sex - I believe that it provides young women with the opportunity to be educated in an environment where their opinions are nurtured and protected. I believe that single-sex education empowers women.
Henry Wells always intended his school to be a single-sex institution, and when given the opoortunity to merge with Cornell, he adamantly refused. A co-ed WELLS ceases to be the school it was meant to be -- the school we all know and love.
There are few if any women's colleges remaining of the caliber of Wells
Distinction. Something unique and special.
Wells should remain a women's college in order to be true to its traditions, to maintain its honor code, its campus life, its classroom character, and its reputation. If Wells College is just another NYS co-ed college, what makes it special?
In order to build womens confidence and allow women to assume leadership positionsand take part in all types of activities without needing to be concerned about mens opinions
It should most definitely remain a women's college. It is a special place that our Alumnae build confidence and self esteem, friendships and bonds with peer women and establish the foundation for becoming the moms, wives and leaders of tomorrow.
There is still a need and a place for women' educaiton. I am also un-convinced that co-education will solve Wells' recruitment and retention problems.
It's the single most marketable aspect of the college.
Wells was intended to be a women's college from the begining. Some of the women that choose to attend Wells do so because of the small, non-threatening all women environment. Women can be more out spoken in an all women environment.
Value of single-sex education for women, tradition.
only in an all women's college can we truly be the campus leaders and gain the training we need to become successful in life.
It is what is promised to the students currently attending and would be a breach of contract not to continue.
There are girls who are always passed over in a coeducational environment that need to be nurtured in a single sex environment to allow them to achieve their potential.
I came to Wells a very shy woman, and bloomed into a person who has had a successful career as a manager of Merrill Lynch. This could only have happened at Wells. It gave me the confidence to have this success.
I think that the administrators are correct about the small pool of students for college; they should think about turning Wells into prep. school for women. It would preserve the school's character and aims, make it a distinctive, learning place.
Wells was founded on the basis of providing a good education to women. The mission, and Wells' sisterhood now means nothing. I do not agree with the manner that Wells decided to go co-ed. The entire way they handled the transition was terrible.
"Until we have gender parity, there is a need for women's colleges.
I went to Wells because it was an all-women's college. If it were coed, I would have left New York (losing state scholarships) for a women's school, or gone to Vassar.
I believe there are still unique needs of women students that can best be addressed in a single sex environment and that there are women who will benefit from such an environment.
Despite progress towards equality among women and men, sexism still exists. Women's colleges are important places in which the eradication of sexist thought continues.
Wells offers a unique, empowering environment to young women that cannot be maintained in a coed campus. The freedom to express one's views is a treasure I fear will be lost with the addition of men to the graduating classes.
Developing strong female leaders is key and a woman's college is the BEST way to give them all the leadership opportunities.
A women's college provides a unique educational experience, the benefits of which have been touted by the administration itself. Admitting men means denying that experience to many young women who still seek the benefits of a women⤙s education.
Women's colleges give a young woman an opportunity to excel in her studies and learn leadership skills.
Every Wells Express and every speech from the Wells President has spouted the virtues of women's SINGLE-SEX education.How quickly the administration is to try and now convince us otherwise! 60% Women is NOT 100% Women.
Unique opportunity to grow as individuals and scholars unhampered by the gender/role identification that is pervasive in society
For the Board of Trustees to fundamentally change the entire nature of this college without open dialogue on the issue truly lacks leadership and integrity.
The most important lessons in my life were not learned in the classroom, but from the other Wells women that surrounded me. These are important skills for all women to learn.
Wells was founded to preserve an institution and now a legacy for WOMENS education - for and among WOMEN only
This uniqueness is precious and sustainable only by resolute commitment to the original founding mission.
Women's colleges encourage strong, independent women. As well, Wells remains one of the few affordable, and therefore accesible, women's colleges.
Women's education is one of the top things that makes Wells College so special and rare - to go co-ed would put Wells in the same spot as many other small private institutions w/o that uniqueness as being one of the oldest colleges for WOMEN
I feel the quality" of the Wells student has gone down hill. As a result many young women are choosing to go elsewhere. If we attracted more women while keeping the standards high Wells would have better luck."
For 136 years, Wells has educated girls into strong, successful, assertive, intelligent women who are unafraid to stand up and fight for what they believe in. Fair Wells, thy daughters will ever mourn!
As a women's institution Wells is unique and recommendable, frankly there a thousands of small liberal arts coed institutions out there. Why recommend Wells above those? I won't know Wells as a coed institution.
I believe a woman-centered education is empowering.
I believe women get a better education at all women's colleges. Wells has many traditions that broaden the education system which I feel may be lost when the college transitions to coed.
I fear by going co-ed Wells will no longer foster independence and leadership in women as it will become like any other co-ed institution and allow women to simply slip into the role of passivity in the classroom.
Wells encourages young women to develop confidence in the intelligence they possess. It fosters an atmosphere where they can express their opinions and ideas without being distracted by male students and in the classroom male bias does not occur.
Wells fills more than an academic need - it fills an emotional/psychological need that most 18 year olds aren't aware of. The friendships, empowerment, and self-esteem that are taught" at Wells will not be possible in a co-ed environment."
What made Wells different from most other colleges were 1/ the traditions, most of which cannot be continued in a co-educational environment and 2/ women filling leadership positions that generally still are taken by men in co-educational settings.
"Emotionally, it breaks my heart to see Wells become coed. Although I didn't attend Wells because it was a women's college, I gained a lot because it was a women's college.
That being said, it would break my heart more to see Wells close.
The fundamental character of Well would change irrevovably if it became coed. The college needs better marketing and innovative programming, not the admission of men.
I think that women's colleges are few and far between, and Wells is the only one left in Central New York. I feel its signal sex atmoshpere and mission is what draws students.
Why on earth would any woman want to attend or remain at an institution where she WON'T come first or be HONORED anymore?
Few female high school students will consider attending an all female college. Location is a real problem for Wells. The women's colleges still standing are not as isolated.
Wells is a unique opportunity for women to explore, learn, grow. I originally came altho it was all women, for a Wells scholarship, the community I saw on campus, & academics. Stayed b/c of its commitment to women & opportunities. So I'm a convert!
Research studies overwhelmingly demonstrate the educational and social advantages of women's schools and colleges for women. Coeducation will WEAKEN Wells College.
My experience at Wells encourages Women to take a stand for things and empowered me to be the best I can be. I received the individual attention I needed and I don't feel that students will if the college turns co-ed.
Wells' social structure is special. A graduate program that was coed would be more acceptable to most students and would not change the undergraduate dorm culture.
This is truly the differentiator for Wells. My fear is that Wells will become lost in a sea of small liberal arts colleges eventually becoming an annex to Cornell or Ithaca
By admitting men, the culture that is Wells would be greatly altered, through the presence of men, and the presence of women who would choose Wells only with the addition of male students. The Wells Experience would be greatly altered.
I believe that separate education for women is valuable because women have more opportunities at a women's college: leadership, athletics, and contributions in the classroom.
I believe everything possible has been tried including reducing tuition 30%. The location is isolated. Drastic measures are now required.
I didn't get treated fairly in H.S., there was something wrong with being smart, Wells showed me otherwise & taught me to do well in a world that isn't kind to smart women, things haven't changed, young women still need places like Wells
Wells unique history and place in the current environment is its identity as a women's college. I believe this rich heritage and commitment to women's education is something simply NOT ever found at a co-educational institution.
The need for same sex schools remains strong. Women need these choices and opportunities. For If Wells becomes coed, it loses the very foundation upon which it was built.
Most of the things that make Wells unique among colleges relate to its single sex mission. With men, it just becomes a tiny regional college with no real draw for the diverse student body it currently has.
Women receive a better education without males being present. They are able to take off the shackles of patriarchy (especially within the isolated Wells campus) be themeselves, free to pursue unconventional pursuits, free to learn leadership skills.
To support women's leadership, self confidence, & single sex education. Allowing future generations to experience what I have.
Wells stated mission is to provide an environment specifically for educating women. Going coed completely changes the colleges focus and mission statement.
That is Wells College's most significant selling point. That is what makes it unique and appealing. Otherwise it is just another liberal arts college in the sticks.
Being a women's collge is what makes Wells special. It is what gives Wells its special atmosphere. If that is taken away, Wells will just be another small, if not tiny, liberal arts college in the middle of nowhere.
Wells College empowers Women. Women deserve an environment in which they can florish as leaders, then in turn when they choose, can give their gift" freely back to society and make it a better one. "
Women still need a place where they can explore who they are and learn outside of a competitive environment fostered in coeducational institutions.
Woman need a place to learn where there is no social pressure to date and party. If Wells was coed when I was there I truly believe that I would not have received the same quality of education there.
"As an educator in the computing field, I believe that there are strong reasons for women's colleges and, therefore, for Wells remaining a women's college.
we have to elevate the quality of female students...and there are few places like Wells in which to grow. So what sort of male would be the first students admitted? Would gays try to take the place over?
I attended co-ed schools before & after Wells, and the learning atmosphere for women at Wells was clearly superior to the co-ed schools. I believe that there is still a place for single-sex colleges.
The current students at Wells went there believing they would be graduating from an all women's college. I believe women will get a better education surrounded only by their own sex.
I think all-women's colleges are important to our society. What I resent is the unwillingness to keep alumnae in the loop as to what was going on.
"The community, the traditions, and the consistant growth of Wells women. Take away that, and you take away what makes it Wells.
Wells educates strong, sure, steady leaders, which the world sorely needs.
I am convinced that women's colleges provide a vital opportunity for young women to learn not only the foundations of scholarship and intellectual pursuits, but also in a safe, non-competitive, open environment.
Being a women's college sets us apart from the hundreds of other colleges students have to chose from.
To uphold the legacy Henry Wells accoded us. To ensure a quality, female directed learning environment uneroded by male needs.
There are few women's colleges left, and women's colleges produce a disproportionate number of the women leaders. There are also young women who will learn best in the atmosphere of a woman's college.
There needs to be quality women's colleges, giving women the choice of single sex education. Many women will perform to higher standards in such an environment.
A co-ed Wells will ultimately fail in the marketplace of excellent co-ed liberal arts colleges in the region. Wells is the last women's college remaining in the region.
Being a women's college is what makes Wells unique. More opinion sent by separate email.
A women's college creates a unique enviroment for a young woman to learn and express herself freely. It offers a bond with other women and a valuable history of traditions and excellence that cannot be replaced.
It is our positive, strengthening, educational and always restorative tradition. Wells was founded on a principle of women's equality that still holds today and still needs articulation in certain ways for certain populations.
Millions have been spend and much effort has been expended doing the things now suggested. 40 years of trying has not worked.
The whole foundation of Wells is based around the single-sex environment. I know that I would not have attended had I known that it would become co-educational. I believe the school will lose students because of this decision.
Wells nourishes a female coming-of-age. Cavalierly tossing away women⤙s education is not the answer. Strengthening academics, addressing building issues, and hiring forward-thinking qualified professional administrators are far better remedies.
As the oldest and most prestigious women's college in upstate New York, Wells has a niche upon which it can and should capitalize while contributing to the positive effects of a women's college education.
First of all, 136 years of tradition. Secondly, there are very few women's colleges left, and Wells does fill a need. Women should have the opportunity to attend a single sex institution.
I think it is important for Wells to remain single sex becuase it provides a unique experience and has such a strong tradition and belief in the education on women. By going co-ed those traditions and beliefs are nullified.
Women need to have a place where they can grow in the company of other women. A single-sex environment also takes away distractions that are evident in co-ed classrooms
Wells helps young women find their voices and it also creates a safe place for them to USE those voices.
Women need a place where they can learn to be strong, thinking, intelligent women of character. For someone of us, the all-women's college was the only place where we could be comfortable.
Single sex education makes a difference in a woman's ability to be successful in the business world. It improves a woman's self esteem. The opportunities for single sex education are not growing. Wells is setting a bad example.
All the reasons it was founded.
"tradition, excellent education for women, higher positions in work force by women from women colleges. bonds, friendships. distinctive as women school, not distinctive as small co-ed school.
what type man would go there?
There are so few women's colleges left & we still have not reached equality in education.It is important for women to have a place where they can feel safe to explore themselves & their views on the world without competition & pressure from men.
To keep the traditions alive and to help girls achieve their full potential as it did with me
It was founded as a women's college. Being a graduate of an all women's institution has given me opportunities that I could never have had by going to a co-ed college or university. One of the main reasons I chose Wells was because it was all women.
Wells was created specially to educate women and give women the opportunities we would not have attending a co-ed college and competing with men. Wells created a safe environment for women to learn, and grow w/out the pressure of men around .
Look at the statistics for women who have gone to women's only schools. # in congress, # of business leaders! # of women in sciences. what set wells apart from other liberal arts schools is that it was only for women.
That is part of what makes it Wells. There is still a need for women's colleges.
Even in today's world, there is a need for colleges with an environment, devoid of male competition, where a woman can obtain an excellent higher education as well as the CONFIDENCE that she can contribute to society as strongly as a man.
Women need a choice. Wells provides the opportunity.
Studies show women in single sex learning enviornments are more confident in asking questions and their ideas are taken more seriously.
I belkieve that there is still a need for single sex education.
Simply put, women of the world need more places like Wells, not less.
The supportive atmosphere in at a women's college encourages both intellectual and personal growth in a manner not possible in a co-ed one. Young women learning to be leaders of their community carry that with them for life.
The fact remains that women are still left behind in educational settings and in the job market. Single sex education is vital to the development of successful young women.
leadership
personal development
community building
greater exposure to fields not traditionally enrolled in by women"
I am a product of a Wells education and I believe strongly that I would not have had the success in my life if I had to learn in a coeducational arena. We need to stand up for what we believe sets Wells apart and I know it to be Women's Education!
Homepage
Reasons besides financial for Wells to become coeducational
I am concerned current administration and trustees want to “grow" Wells to gain more notoriety and don't necessarily have best interests of College at heart
The decision has been made. It is time to move on. In order for women to mainstain their independence perhaps they need to start interacting and competing with men at the college level. Lets work together to make it a success.
The large presence of lesbians in the Wells student body is a big problem. Wells will have difficulty surviving as an educational inst. even if it goes coed at this late date.
Clearly there are political reasons.
none
Separate note: I can't fathom why there are financial concerns...didn't we all participate in a $50 million dollor capital campaign in the 1990s?
No. Can you?
Of course. But instead, let's aggresively market to women.
Women must work in a coeducational world and must learn how to handle that before entering the work force.
But money is what it's about. College can't pay it's bills, can't survive. If it doesn't survive, then NO ONE will get the quality Wells education - women or men, and an entire community will fold.
Loss of vision on the part of the President & Trustees. Laziness on the part of the President & Trustees in not wanting to actively promote Wells as one of a few colleges for women left in the country.
A good model of Womens College opening their doors to men and satisfying the women's mission. Georgian Court College in Lakewood NJ Women during the day & men may go at night for coed class & the men do graduate
Current trends do not indicate that women's colleges are popular choices --- more women are interested in a coed opportunity. If we do not have a base upon which to draw students, going coed is inevitable.
Survival, I'm afraid. How many applicants did Wells have during the past decade? Most in my class who had daughters were unable to interest them in a single sex school.
No reasons at this time for Wells to become coeducational.
Program & athletic enhancement, effective marketing and management can overcome financial concerns. No new ideas were explored b4 the decision to go co-ed. It is unbelievably sexist to posit that these changes are only justified if men can come.
They obviously have had difficuty getting enough high school seniors to come to the college. I certainly do not know how to increase that. My experience with my 2 college age neices is that they and their friends would not even consider a women's.
Possible to have co-ed MASTERS level program independent of an undergrad women's liberal arts prog. Lesley University, Camb. and Simmons Coll, Boston, have women-only programs along w/co-ed progs.
Co-education will bring educational and intellectual benefits and more status to Wells.
I think that the Board of Trustees and President Ryerson are not capable of running Wells and are not interested in Wells College or its students, this is why they are incapable of running this college successfully.
Increase pool of potential applicants; raise the standards for admission
I would rather see Wells continue offering excellent education to women and men than see Wells die in the interest of maintaining what worked once and is a wonderful memory.
I believe in the single-sex environment for young women, if it becomes co-ed it should be through the addition of a graduate program that admits men. True campus change needs to occur to increase enrollment and retention of women
Wells not longer has the monetary base to remain a single sex college. It's geograohic remoteness and lack of one core program contribute to it's need to expand it's student base
I am a firm beliver in diversity. I think men in the college will further that belief.
Everything is tied to money, but I am not always convinced that this is noble and right. This is a worry here...
Given the financial concerns, it seems quite possible to operate with a strong, healthy attitude about women in the world -- an attitude that can be shared by women and men in a college setting.
The administration relies too heavily on advice from the Board of Trustees and Pleasant Rowland. Closed process.
Wells has an excellent faculty & staff, a beautiful campus & great history of developing strong women. There is no reason why it cannot do the same for men.
Easier recruiting with coeducation. But it will bring a different kind of student. Instead do a better job of attracting women.
Perhaps to keep it a viable institution. I would never want to see Wells co-ed any other way.
Very simply put; it represents the real world. We are a two sex society. If women want to compete with men they need to be coeducated with them. I am glad they are finally doing what they should have done over a decade ago.
....and how 'financial' are they. Would be nice if the board sent out the projected revenues and the strategy for securing male / female admissions to support the projects numbers.
....and how 'financial' are they. Would be nice if the board sent out the projected revenues and the strategy for securing male / female admissions to support the projects numbers.
There has not been a comprehensive study by an academic based consultant to direct the admissions department Leadership has been marginal--at the top level and the Board of Trustees has not accepted their responsibility
Stronger more accomplished women graduate from Wells than from co-educational programs. Graduates from women's colleges do better in the work world, earn more money, and have higher level employment to name a few.
"Wells is concerned about the increasing population of homosexuals at Wells, apparently it's driving away applicants.
Financial afront is bogus, since we were one of the very few colleges that made papers lowering"" the cost of education."""
Wells is very remote. If it were coed, I think more students would apply.
None for 2005, 2006, 2007. Beyond that, new leadership at Wells should determine needs with the college's various constituencies and with consultants experienced in changes for higher education .
The college has been influenced by Pleasant to be run like another quaint business. The entire area is being developed into a tourist trap.
"This would be a good path if interested parties would like to fold the collage and make its assets available. This could provide a great financial investment for those involved in the development of property in Aurora.
Too concern with legal status and potential suits becuase of a schhol only for women.
Absolutely not!
I am aware only that in order to offer graduate studies, the graduate programs must admit men. I am not familiar with the reasons for this at present not having researched them
What about the capital needed to transform the dorms, the athletic program, etc. to allow for male students? Where are those costs coming from? Surely with better marketing we could add more WOMEN to the college and remain true to our mission.
Administrators lack imagination want magic pill" to fix college's internal mismanagement; also strategic: distract & split faculty on spring-proposed vote of no-confidence against President."
I don't agree that admissions could go up enough given that the local market is saturated with liberal arts co-ed schools that have frankly better locations & prices. This blanket solution is a failure by trustees and Ryerson to lead Wells College.
I think Wells needs to take a new approach at admissions to draw more women to the college, I do not think it is necessary to make the institution co-educational to draw more women,those who want to go to a co-ed school will apply to a co-ed school.
Unfortunate though it is, high school girls just don't want to come to a women's only college anymore. Unfortunate, but that's how it is.
The idea of a Woman's college is not in the minds of young girls today. Many stong women have come from co-educational classrooms, with the additional diversity element.
GET REAL! This move has been coming for 30 years-- it is nothing new, and the students on campus at the moment do not have the perspective to
know it!
I think most women today are more interested in a co-ed setting. While there will always be women who want a same-gender school, I'm not convinced Wells has what it takes to compete with more prestigious women's schools, mostly location.
Not sure financial concerns really an issue. We have been lead to believe different stories over years, & I read a different report of finances recently. I don't know what to believe. But I cringe when things become so money oriented.
Would you rather have it die so no one can enjoy the educational benefits? Doesn't seem that the alumnae have done such a great job so far supporting Wells.
Recruitment of only women has not been successful in the past and therefore size has been dropping. With a smaller size come fewer course offerings and the total college experience is jeopardized.
Perhaps to continue to attract the same high calibre women students Wells has traditionally enrolled.
I would rather see my alma mater close its doors than to see what we have chosen - to move to mainstream co-education.
Many all Women's colleges have gone this route. It change the learning environment drastically. Plus, what kind of man would want to be a minority on a resentful campus.
Yeah, I get it that single sex education may be seen as passe, but those of us who went there know that it's not about fitting in.I think it takes a certain type of young woman to see the inherent benefits and advantages of Wells.They're rare.
Enrollment has not hit the target in many years. We cannot continue to spend the endowment.
he world as we knew it has actually changed. Single sex education probably makes more sense for middle schoolers than for college students.
The Wells faculty must be the priority.
NONE!
Wells will receive more applications from qualified women if the school is coed.
L. Ryerson wants Wells to be co-ed because being pres. of a co-ed school will look better on her resume than being pres. of a single sex one, she wasn't qualified to be pres. 10 years ago and she still isn't
I can't think of a single reason - financial or otherwise why Wells should opt to become coeducational.
There are not enough heterosexual young women who are willing to consider attending an all-women's college. This is a concern at Wells as well as the lack of geographical variety and low academic level in the student body.
No
Wells has developed a lesbian image over the last decade or two. I would applaud the addition of males to any and all graduate programs regardless of this image flaw. That, I think, would be a solid choice.
I am not convinced that the financial situation is as desperate as Ryerson wants us to believe, therefore I have to believe there are other reasons that I don't fully understand.
I don't know. Have heard that there might be.
There are reasons for it to NOT become coed. Particularly that to add men to such a small remote residential campus is just asking for trouble.
I seriously mistrust President Ryerson's leadership. Regardless of our collective thoughts, she and the board see very little reason to fully articulate their reasons to Wells communities.
Wells draws from only 3% of college bound women. We must appeal to the other 97% that will not even look at a single sex college. A few men added would also be helpful
At the graduate level yes. But not undergrad.
There are plenty of schools where men can get an excellent education. I don't see what the attractions would be for men to attend Wells, I don't think many will enroll or stay so I don't see how this will resolve the financial issue.
NONE
Homepage
What “other” options to transition towards coeducation would you support? (comments made in addition to multiple selection question reported above.)
I would support co-education if it truely was the the only option.
Hood College transitioned successfully with a 2 year window
Why not offer a master's degree and keep the undergrad single sex? Smith & Simmons both did.
Only special programs, until the admin. proves more is necessary (MA, book arts, etc).
IF it had to be done... 4 years before residential coed.
It depends on how much preplanning has already been done.
Incremental approach been going on for years. Not as if ther've never been men classroom at Wells.
If two years is financially feasible.
I will never support any transition
A masters degree program in Education.
I would support Wells going co-ed if I thought they had actually exhausted all other options.
I support expanding the mission with a Ed.M. or M.Ed. (which would be co-ed).
I'll never support coed at Wells. I'll never support or donate to Wells again if coed goes through.
many years would be nessary to create such a change
If coeducation becomes inevitable, doing it in less than 4 years is unconscionable.
Start a coeducational graduate program in Education.
whatever the trustees decide is appropriate
Transition so all students on campus are informed of the choice to study in a co-ed environment
Only if part of a larger, cohesive, comprehensive plan.
Other" is selected only on the premise of 'never say never'."
Only if ALL other options have been exhausted
Incremental category interesets me. Maybe allow a few unique area of studies to be co-ed.
I would support co-education only as a total last resort.
In time, only after all other options are exhausted.
If co-education is a desirable step, then it must be incremental.
I must trust trustee perception, but slower change & active, open involvement of all are wiser.
I'd support a lead time sufficient to give current students time to graduate.
If it cannot be incremental and we must go co-ed, we need four years to plan and implement.
Co-ed grad programs, ok. No co-ed undergrad until we⤙ve tried every means of increasing enrollment.
Not yet prepared for co-ed. We need a complete airing of the problems, solutions
graduate level, summer programs, and international studies.
A co-ed graduate program could be lucrative and appropriate. It works for Hollins University in VA.
see following e-mail
Hard proof and agreement from ALL Wells constituencies that there are no other options.
I support the development of graduate studies, with off-campus housing for any male students.
4-5 year campaign with expert consultant/alumni to revitalize collage. Explore coed as option.
I think the board should go back to their largest resource - the alumnae,faculty and students.
I'd rather see Wells retire as a respected Womens College than to see it become a coed college.
only if absolutely necessary to survival
The current students are the ones being especially hurt by this abrupt decision.
Incremental as warranted, with a goal of *never* fully going coed.
more facts needed as to need" for transition"
Not necessary. Wells can, should, and will remain for women.
BkArts grad/Intl Stud/spec.programs OK but supplementary, not incremental." For 4-yr undergrad:NONE"
I do not support Wells to go co-educational
If coeducation is necessary--MAKE A SMOOTH TRANSITION!
open just the off campus programs - make them co-ed
An off campus site graduate program or alliance"
Not really incremental"-special programs/summer sessions; not full transition."
Will send in an e-mail
Segmented: e.g. a graduate program in education
only if all other avenues to boost enrollment have failed.
I will support co-education when sexism is no longer a reality of our lives.
Wells should remain all women
The proposed three year plan by the students.
three years before residential coeducation
Students who applied to a Woman⤙s College should be allowed to finish as such. 2005 is too early.
I still support Wells, but I'm saddened and disappointed.
Times have changed. You want it to go totally lesbian?
Special programs such as Book Arts, International Studies, etc. but have it end there.
I would not be opposed if Wells becomes the women's institution of a larger university.
I would support the institution of a graduate program open to men
only fair to current students to allow to complete their single sex education they committed to
class of 08 graduates from a single sex wells, bring men in fall of 09 if absolutely necessary.
see above.
Wells should transition slowly into coed through night&masters classes and specific programs&majors.
I would support the development of graduate studies at Wells.
If Wells must go coed, I think that it should be at the graduate level ONLY
The administration should have, at the very least, waited three years.
Check out Hollins College in VA -- some of their programs are co-ed
The coed decision should’ve been an open and honest discussion involving the ENTIRE Wells community.
I thought thte graduate program in education was an excellent idea.
Close.Let Wells die and remain frozen in time than become somthing different with the same name.
Admit men to the freshmen classes, but do not allow transfers into classes already at Wells.
Off-campus for co-ed graduate program
I would rather see the college close than go co-ed
I checked neither re. financial question as I do not have the data to make a valid choice.
I just don't think you women today understand the importance of a women-only education.
I do not consider them incremental. They exist outside of the core of Wells.
Co-ed only after extensive marketing and admissions rehaul.
As a 3 generational family I am of course saddened, but lets teach those men gender equity
I don't support this, but if it has to be done, then PLEASE let it be gradual and limited.
Only after community-chosen plans to stay single-sex don't work, after several years.
St. Joseph's in West Hartford CT went to a co-ed grad school program.
Rename Wells.
Min 4 yrs so the women that have committed to single sex education at Wells can achieve that goal.
can we make wells an option to men, without conferment of degrees - a transitional place for them?
Homepage
Additional Comments:
I believe the small size of Wells is a positive quality and allows the student to participate in a variety of activities and in a variety of roles as well as have direct nurturing interaction with faculty and staff (especially professors). I believe that students' requests should be taken more seriously, since they are the current consumers of the Wells product.
Judging from the experience of other women's colleges few men will attend at first. The transition will be gradual and hopefully successful. We must all work to keep Wells strong. We do not insist that all professors are female.
"The students' actions have been inspiring and courageous. The decision was fraudulent, not only for alumnae, who were not officially alerted until less than a month before the decision was made, but also for the students, who were not alerted until after the drop-add period had ended. I am ashamed at the school I attended-- it preached the benefits of women-only education while furtively pursuing an hypocritical agenda.
I will never donate to a co-educational institution.
"I am very concerned about how the decision to make this change has been managed. There are a numerous alternatives to improve enrollment. I plan on composing an email to the trustees and president expressing my opinion.
I hope to do my part to express my personal frustration over this issue.
The students are being too nice-this is about civil DISobedience. They are lovely, strong and wonderful young women.
DEEPLY concerned by the lack of information and suddenness of decision. It's not enough for President to say she has mentioned coeducation as a possibility for a year or two. I do not consider Wells to be anyone's personal fiefdom. We share in the Wells community, and thus decisions need to be made in the spirit of that community. That means information regarding absolute necessity of this change should have been shared well in advance of Trustees' meeting.
I support the students and think at a minimum that Lisa and the Admissions director need to resign.
If Wells is in such trouble I think that is a direct relationship to poor management. I think then the first thing to be done to save money would be to significantly cut the administrative salaries.
I think that the most disturbing part of this process is that there has been virtually no shared process and virtually no open communication. The President's statements insisting that there has been does not make it so.
The question of financial committment to Wells as a top priority raises the spectre of a bribe: You want single sex
I have always and will continue to support the President. She has been nothing but a champion for Wells College. However, as I said above I am baffled by the lack of strength (or protection) in the $50 mill capital campaign of the 1990s.
Wells is not losing prospective student interest because it is a women's college. Incompetence in various departments and failure to listen to student opinions has led to a high transfer rate and decline in alumnae support, which in turn often leads to a drop-off in new student applications. I have always believed that Ryerson, her staff and many of the trustees have always bowed to where money is coming from.
In the early 1960's when I attended Wells, many of the social rules and regulations were from the 1940's (supposedly to protect us from the boys). These rules slowly changed to accommodate girls who were mature enough to handle social situations with boys. This change to co-education is change again. Girls must be assertive in our society. They do not need to be protected from the boys (men), as they enter the business world. Neither do they need to be protected in the academic world.
Those of us from a distance could read between the lines -- but without any firm comments from the management, there was little we could do. The decision may have been under debate behind closed doors, but the method of communication was rude when one considers the power of the alumnae network.
Why we were not told HOW critical the finances were? A pressing question yet to be answered."
Wells College made me who I am today. A leader. An independent woman. Someone not afraid to speak her mind. I have so many fond memories of the campus, the people, and the education. Often I find myself reminiscing, wishing that I could go back.
The recent decision to make Wells a co-ed college is a BAD one. It goes against everything that Henry Wells, our founder, believed in. It goes against over 100 years of tradition.
Change this decision!
My thoughts are mostly posted here
I have asked Wells to no longer speak to me while they are considering coed. Or I'll sue.
I've been impressed by the information the protesters have presented and also learned from faculty I had known and admired while at Wells when I returned for reunions in 1998 and 2000 that the college had been mismanaged.
I've been impressed by the information the protesters have presented and also learned from faculty I had known and admired while at Wells when I returned for reunions in 1998 and 2000 that the college had been mismanaged.
I don't believe Wells has explored all options for remaining single sex. Try more feeder programs admitting students from single-sex high schools, or feeders sending Wells grads into law or medical school, or increasing minority recruitment. Clearly alumnae are willing to do more, if given the opportunity. Finally the trustees and administration seemed underhanded, and their decision-making did not include the people most affected. The students and the faculty, though, make Wells what it is.
Wells receives a fair portion of its funding from alumna, if I am not mistaken. Take away this source because you've made them mad... then where are you at, financially?
Enrollment has steadlly declined and the college is near extinction now. somethng must be done.
Years ago, Wells was surrounded by 7 men's colleges and there was interaction between the schools. That no longer appears to bethe case. Being a women's college has only served to isolated it even more.
Women need to be exposed to all aspects of life to develop into all they can be and that includes men.
Co-education is one component of efforts to return Wells to viability. Considered most drastic because major shift from original mission. Prepared to accept change if will help College stay open. Wells has considered this for almost 30 years; didn't just creep up out of nowhere. GLAD students protesting - at least they care. Simply their misfortune to be Wells Women at this time. Not, however, the end of the world.
Wells afforded us a unique opportunity to develop as women. If men are added to the mix, regardless of the administration statement that women's education will remain a priority"
I will continue to support Wells College with contributions, including adding it as a beneficiary in my will, ONLY if Wells continues in it's mission as a college to educate women, and only women.
As I am disappointed by the decision for the college to go co-ed, I support the administration's commitment to the current students and future of the college. For many years the college has not been able to provide the badly needed academic upgrades and student services due to financial strain. With better enrollment and increased funds, students will finally have some of the resources they deserve for a quality education.
Colleges, just like any other business, need a stream of income to survive. Wells cannot survive charging well below market rates for tuition, room/board, and dipping into it's endowment each year. The market is much more competitive for college students these days than it was 20-30 years ago and, even though it is sad to see traditions change, it is important to align oneself with what the market wants. I don't believe the current scenario is anyone's fault" -- it's just reality."
I think the steps toward the decision were well publicized to the alumnae and anyone who missed the cues was not paying attention. Great efforts have been made to increase enrollment and retention. The simple truth is that too small a percent of high school seniors want to attend an all-women's college nowadays. Becoming co-ed need not mean discarding the mission of high quality education for women in a setting which gives them the opportunity to become leaders and independent thinkers.
I think the steps toward the decision were well publicized to the alumnae and anyone who missed the cues was not paying attention. Great efforts have been made to increase enrollment and retention. The simple truth is that too small a percent of high school seniors want to attend an all-women's college nowadays. Becoming co-ed need not mean discarding the mission of high quality education for women in a setting which gives them the opportunity to become leaders and independent thinkers.
The decision to admit men to the entering class next fall is disappointing and heartbreaking. If Wells goes coed, it will cease to be the college I attended and graduated from. I will no longer support it spiritually or financially, and I'm finally getting to a better position financially that I might be able to contribute more. I will find another small liberal arts college for women to support.
This administration has failed to effectively carry out the mission of Wells College and as a result of the administration's failure the students who have entered Wells have been registred under false contracts. I also believe that the administration and Trustees have broken the honor code. I no longer believe anything the Trustees or admin tells us, and I believe we have been lied to all along and this decision was made long before any discussion with the alumnae, parents or students.
I do not believe that Wells is in financial trouble. I believe that the decision by the trustees was based on their lack of commitment to Wells' mission of educating the women leaders of tomorrow.
I believe that at this point co-education is necessary for sustaining the high caliber of students at Wells, the high quality of intellectual discourse. I admit I am concerned about the quality of life for the first Wells men" who will be small in number
I certainly sympathize with the currently enrolled students and their parents. It seems that communication with students has not been clear. For the alumnae, the handwriting has been on the wall for some time. I think change will come gradually, and sadly, must come. In fact, it probably should have come some years ago. It is better than watching Wells go under. I will continue my financial support of Wells with no conditions.
If Wells continues with this decision the school is dead to me. I will never allow anyone that I know-male OR female to attend or even apply to Wells.
After the Master Plan debacle I chose to stop financially supporting Wells. After reunion this June I began to rethink that decision. I will not support Wells as a co-ed institution. Should it remain the wonderful Wells I knew and loved I could see myself supporting her now and in the future. I work in the Development Office of a small liberal arts college. I know first hand how important the financial support of alums is to a college. I fully support the students in their protest.
I have heard faculty members say the student protests are organized for the students to avoid classes and work. This disrespect for the students and their choice to attend a women's college is intolerable. A college is for the students not the faculty. Any current faculty member came to Wells as a women's college. Taking a position that undermines that mission shows they came with faulty intentions and their continued presence on the campus should be examined.
I am concerned over the lack of communication. If the board/adminsistration was considering coeducation for any reasonable length of time (graduation to October is NOT, in my estimation a reasonable time to make such a drastic, permanent change to Wells), there should have been some effort to involve the greater Wells community. After all, Wells has produced some amazing problem solvers. It is amazing that the Board would not utilize the resource that is the alumnae.
I am not convinced that Wells has made the best use of their alums. I'd be willing to donate much more time than I have been allowed to (recruitment, fundraising, advertising). I'm poor and can't give much money, but that doesn't mean I don't care about Wells.
To change the population at Wells means changing the mission/dynamics of OUR institution. I would NOT be a supporter. Has an outside marketing firm, with a successful record, been consulted & retained to help solve the enrollment problem? Lisa, a freshman sister when I was a senior, has NEVER been on Long Island to recruit potential students. My experience at Wells encouraged me to send my son to a private high school. His tuition is $16,000/year. Wells is a lifelong gift for any woman!
I think there is some kind of ulterior motive going on, as President Ryerson spoke out on the benefits of single sex education not that long ago, and Wells' endowment is not in that dire of a condition. I'd like to know what the plan is if going co-ed fails...
I already give much of my time and energy to Wells College and have since I graduated 16 years ago. I will continue to support her no matter what happens asI would love to see it stay a vibrant, academically excellent college rather than close it's doors.
The most distressing part of the decision is the lack of a plan: no admissions plan, no financial plan, no physical facilities plan, no curricular plan, no staffing plan. Further, there has been little to no substantive faculty input, virtually no student input, and very little alumna input. The alumnae have been given no clear communication, nor has their opinion been sought in any substantive way. This decision has been a fiasco from the beginning"
I was surprised at the suddenness of the decision and disappointed at how the decision was reached. From what I have read, and I realize that I am not as informed as I might be, it appears that the decision was pushed through quickly. I do not know how strong a leader President Ryerson is and wonder if new leadership might be needed at this point before adopting such a drastic measure so quickly.
I fully support the protesting students. They embody the Wells I know and love. The Wells administration, on the other hand, seems incompetent and uncaring. From what I have heard from many alumnae and others, I think that the administration has failed to (a) recruit nationally, and (b) invest in programs (e.g., science) that would attract more women students.
For 1 1/2 years, rec'd message was that co-education but 1 of several options in discussion by Pres., Trustees, & consulting firm. In speaking w/alumnae, there is sense that a fast one" has been pulled. I support student take-over. Our Wells experiences taught us not only to "talk the talk" but "walk the walk." I continue to support Wells. From regular reading (Chron of Higher Ed)
I cannot make Wells a top philanthropic priority with Lisa Ryerson at the helm. I will submit further explanation in a separate email.
There has not been enough time to make such a huge decision. How can administration just completely turn their backs on their mission to educate women?? That is what Wells was founded on. That is it's purpose. If Wells goes coed, then you might as well change the name too, as it WILL NOT BE WELLS COLLEGE!!! I chose and love Wells exactly BECAUSE it is all women. I am completely ashamed of this decision, and will never support or donate to Wells again if it stands.
If Wells is to remain solely a women's college, it will no longer attract a diverse student population. This is not particularly healthy for education. Even when I was at Wells (class of '58), there was little diversity among students. Aurora is isolated as it is, and the area does not offer educational and cultural benefits found nearer big cities. I think even if Wells opens enrollment to men, it will need a strong innovative marketing program.
The decision of whether or not Wells should remain an all women's college or be opened to men needs to be examined with great care, much thought, and ample time for all people involved to share their thoughts and feelings. The process didn't take into account all the important available ideas, information, and opinions. The decision was made too quickly and was conducted under a veil of secrecy. This is unacceptable, outrageous, and unwise conduct for such an honored institution.
Is Wells ready for men? I don't think so. There are other ways to solve this monetary problem.
BUt, an open Wells is better than a closed Wells. If this is the last ditch effort to save the school, then so be it. BUT I don't think every aspect has been evaluated.
Wells will suffer if men are in attendance. It will change what it truly special about Wells!"
Wells must survive...in any form....and I am ready to support an intelligent decision to achieve this end!
If Wells College becomes coeducational, its 136-year history of educating women will become meaningless, and it will become just one more coed liberal arts college indistinguishable from any other. Wells' mission has always been to create women who can think and do on their own. I like men very much, but how can we allow MEN to solve Wells' problems? I think there is insufficient evidence to think that admitting men will solve either enrollment or financial problems. Academics is the key.
In general, I believe if the process is flawed (as this process has been), then the decision is flawed. If an open and better decision making process leads to the same decision, then I would support it.
Wells needs greater financial support than friends and family have provided."
I think the decision was made hastily, without proper consultation of students and alumnae- the very bloodline of the college. I think an administration change has been needed for YEARS and new blood would do the college well.
This decision will not help the college to make money, it will do the opposite because they will receive no support from the alumnae and enrollment will drop. After empowering us to think for ourselves as women, the trustees and administration are telling us that they can't possibly run the college without men as students. This decision is a betrayal of the mission of Wells College, and I am ashamed to call Wells my alma mater because of it.
The actions of students of Wells College are an inspiration, while the actions of Board of Trustees and the Administration lack integrity and are an embarrassment. The behavior of the students of Wells College is an example of why a Women's College is still essential and necessary in our society. These women are brave, confident, well organized, educated and incredibly well informed and prepared.
As much as I value my single sex education, I do believe that Wells made the right decision. Less and less women are willing to go to a college without men, and men are not admitted on basis of gender (which would be discrimination if Wells were an all male school). I support Well's decision as necessary for survival.
The rural and isolated location of the college is a major challenge to keep enrollment at the levels necessary to survive. We must be more creative about the college" experience. Four years in an isolated location will not attract enough women. We need to revamp our view of the college and develop some radical alternatives. There is too much emphasis on the "physical" Wells and not enough on it's core competencies and values."
The students have a right to express their opinions, just as the alums do. The possibility of going co-ed has been discussed since as early as 2002. Any student that wishes to continue in a single sex institution should get immediate assistance from the college to facilitate as smooth a transition for the student as possible.
I am appalled at the threat of financial blackmail.
If you do create an escrow account for contributions to Wells for release of funds upon reversal of the decision to become co-educational in 2005"" (i.e. withhold your financial support unless the college does what you want) I plan to increase my financial support to Wells."
I am concerned that the students may be sacrificing their educational goals for the good of the overall community-The college could improve retention, enrollment by adding a daycare on campus. Family housing should be an option for WILL students-The college should be equipped to negotiate the situation and resolve the conflict-
If a co-ed program needs to exist, it should be through a graduate program with separate housing. The undergraduate program should remain for women"
The direction of the college has been disappointing for some time, since the appointment of Lisa Ryerson as president without a national search. Wells needs new, visionary leadership. Many women's colleges are successful, some in rural areas like Wells ⤓ e.g., Sweet Briar College. Why are such colleges successful while Wells is floundering? The administration says that Wells must go coed to retain is liberal arts mission. Why is that mission more important than the mission to educate women?
"I am hoping for the same outcome as the students & alumnae of Mills College achieved.
Wells College desperately needs a change in leadership. Specifically, Lisa Ryerson has served for too long.
Wells women are taught to be strong-minded & proactive. It's a community of women who by tradition band together. I'm proud of the students trying to maintain the Wells experience. Wells needs more students: female students. Traditions & experiences of former students are what need to be conveyed. Becoming a coed school won't appeal to the kinds of women Wells wants. It will be like any other coed school - & that's not what I needed or what Henry Wells sought to provide.
Currently enrolled students chose Wells based on its education of women. How many students would transfer if Wells went co-ed immediately? There should be time for current students to continue their education in the atmosphere they originally chose when they applied and matriculated.
Over the years, I have recommended students to the admission office. One I recommended is currently enrolled. This year, I find I cannot recommend any students to Wells if there is a chance it will go co-ed.
The process leading to the Trustees' decision reeks to me of a done deal
For Wells College to remain viable in todays society, it needs to greated expand it's student population. Unfortunately, despite heroic efforts that has failed.
I was deeply saddened by the news. I know my Wells education has made a difference in my life. Working in the business world, I understand the need to balance the books� and you cannot run on a deficit. I don't know everything that was tried but know there was probably more to try. If going coed is the last resort
I think this survey is ridiculously biased as surveys go. I can't imagine what the results will mean.
Further, I'm sure the decision to go co-ed was as heart wrenching to the trustees as it is to the alumna. I do not have any problems with the process followed and believe that the multi-year track record does not support an additional 3-year trial.
I can understand the student's concerns. If I were a student at Wells now instead of 50 years ago I am sure I would be among the students who don't want this change. If it is being done purely for financial reasons, the new structure might not work. I am trusting that the Board has the well being of the college in mind as well as its finances.
Go go go!
I do not feel the communication has been complete enough with the alumnae to convince us that the move is really necessary. One can always try harder, and I am not convinced that the try has been hard enough, considering the depth of the emotions surrounding the issue.
First, I'm sorry the decision had to be made. Second, I do believe it was the only option left. Third, I wonder who the first men will be. I imagine they will be unique, gifted, funny, smart, open, adventurous, searching -- and like any college student hoping they have made the right choice. I hope they will be made to feel they are a valued part of the community. "
I have too little information to answer these questions fairly. But I have no reason not to believe the administration and trustees.
This decision was made with inadequate notice to alums, students, parents, faculty, and others. It should not stand.
A new president should be found to run Wells College. Someone with a commitment to the spirit of the college.
I am appalled that men could be Wells students as early as next fall. This decision is rash and poorly thought-out. It goes against everything Wells has stood for over the decades, indeed against its own mission statement. I have supported the protesters with a financial donation, as well.
I have stopped my support of Wells except for my vital interest in this on-going process. I see no accountability about for money sent for the new science building, etc. I will resume enthusiastic support when I think the administration is responsive to the overall Wells community.
We need to be able to see into the future & if we want Wells to be a strong educational institution, we as a sisterhood need to embrace the change.
I know it must be very difficult especially for those currently enrolled, they must feel as though their worlds are coming down on them. But as a graduate of the class of '94, I feel as though Wells can only benefit from this. "
Wells needs to look at what successful" colleges
I understand that Wells must make changes in order to thrive, and if coeducation is absolutely necessary for it to do so, I will support that decision. That said, I feel saddened by the decision and have concern that the traditions we have shared will be lost.
I don't have enough info. to judge what's been tried. I WOULD support students' action as long as the finances were soundly evaluated. At some level, I must trust that the Trustees/officers of Wells hold it dear as I do, and that they only choose such an action because they see no other way. If the students+concerned alumnae have a financially viable plan, they will listen, I trust. But if they cannot, Wells is better off co-ed than nonexistent.
My 50th Reunion is coming up and many in our class feel the uselessness of contributing a significant amount if Wells will become co-ed or disband. We feel there has been a behind the door" action to get this coeducation policy a done deal.
I commend & support the BOT for making a difficult yet prudent decision. I also applaud the students⤙ activism. But reality clouds idealism, and if Wells is to become vibrant it must change course. A donor, I will not play hostage with my money by putting it into escrow as suggested. Alumnae who do, do the students a disservice. I have faith in the administration & BOT. Let’s helpWells along its new path and be optimistic about its advancement and opportunities for future students.
Having been an educator for a number of years, I have been in contact with a number of college bound women. Not one of them has even thought of attending a women's college. It's a fact of the times we live in. In order to survive I feel that Wells has no choice in the matter. Other changes must be made also to become financially solvent.
I think the current administration is not prepared to handle the changes that coeducation would bring to the college. Wells needs to step back and develop further clarity on this issue and bring the process to the larger community.
Not being a very recent graduate ('63), I cannot forcibly say that all options have been tried or not. It would bother me a great deal not to have the option of all-women's education open to future college women.
The students are unrealistic. Women are taking leadership roles and they need to be trained similar to their male counterparts. I am very proud of my Wells education. I am at the top of my field. However, one of the ways that I stay there is to recognize WHEN CHANGE IS NECESSARY. It is not the world it was 30 years ago when I graduated. The admission SATS are so low it is embarrassing. I praise the BOT and the Administration for making the right decision before it was too late.
I have already pledged to the college that I would double what I intended to give this year if they reverse the co-ed decision.
I am very proud of the current students and proud to call myself a Wells Woman. I hope my daughter has the option of attending Wells College. She would be the class of 2025. "
I would support a transition to co-education, if the proper channels had been used to reach and subsequently enact the decision and if I truly believed it was the only option for Wells' survival. Unfortunately, the lack of communication with stakeholders and the absence of a strategic plan to support the transition doom it to failure. I support the students in their protest and have withdrawn my financial support of the College as a result of this debacle.
Firstly this survey is very limited in answers without complete explanation of 'questions'. And the 500 CHARACTER limit -- not word, bad format.
Wells should listen to alumni and students and not allow men. We would be coming 'common' and although hard times are upon us -- with clearer communication funds could be raised.
The process of the decision seems very financially focussed to make Wells progressive"". By staying true to cause - Wells is progressive without compromise.
Wells should listen to alumni and students and not allow men. We would be coming 'common' and although hard times are upon us -- with clearer communication funds could be raised.
The process of the decision seems very financially focussed to make Wells progressiv". By staying true to cause - Wells is progressive without compromise.
The Aurora Foundation has been too great an influence on the administration of the school. It is under the incompetent stewardship of the President and the Board of Trustees that the college has been in a decline. I do not believe that there was an unbiased search for a plan to enable the college to carry out its mission. A moritorium would allow a real marketing attempt and well as allow a well planned and thought out transition to coeducation if that were the only viable alternative.
Lisa Ryerson is unqualified as a college president. She has little to no experience in or understanding of shared governance, academic freedom, and intellectual integrity.
Her administration has restricted students' free speech, undercut tenure, demolished academic programs that were once central to a good liberal arts education, and alienated many of Wells' core constituencies.
What Wells needs most is new leadership.
If Wells adopts co-education I can no longer be supportive of the school's efforts. I will never make any donations to the school or refer prospective students. As a former admissions counselor and tour guide, this saddens me deeply. But once Wells is co-ed, it just isn't Wells anymore.
The decision is shocking because there was no process to speak of. I believe there are ulterior motives to make Wells co-ed. ie Pleasant Rowland's personal wishes. Admin has only catered to her. Trustees should have fired Lisa when enrollment dropped and held admissions accountable.
This should not be the last resort.
I strongly believe that this decision was on the agenda of some in the administration and never aired in the full light of day. The Board and AA have abrogated their responsibilities to the alum and the students and have made a mockery of their stated aim of inclusion and open, deliberative discussion. Only big $$ seem to matter--the money of one benefactor who has too much power.
I fully support the current students' actions in defense of Wells as a women's college. I am outraged that the administration, and trustees, would blatantly ignore the Wells Honor Code. Until such time as the trustees come to their senses and both reverse this decision and dismiss Ryerson as president, and hire a fully qualified, professional presiden, CFO and PR/admissions person, I will not financially support the college.
I worry that the co-education fix is wishful thinking. I worry about the competition with co-ed colleges. In spite of our wonderful faculty, we⤙ve never made it to the top of college rating. Unless we are there, making Wells into just another co-ed institution will take away what makes us unique & desirable. I fear Wells sinking to mediocrity, and Wells' women having mediocre educational experiences in male-dominated classrooms.
I have given to the Dean's Fund for this year and not to the College .
The worst case would be to see Wells boarded up. From my prospective (1946), it doesn't seem that big a deal. It's a different world. I have great faith in Lisa Ryerson. She would never do anything to hurt Wells. Change is never easy, but it's the law of life. By the way, this survey is horribly slanted. Liz Moore Sweeney 1946
I don't feel Wells has given enough vision, effort, and funding towards recruitment. Efforts are splintered and parties wishing to help (volunteer alums, etc.) and redirected to give money or give out business cards to prospectives. Efforts to volunteer at college fairs, host prospective events in the area, or interview prospectives are rebuffed.
I would rather see Wells close than go CoEd. There is simply NO excuse for this action at this point in time. I have to wonder how much of Aurora has been purchased" for "improvement." I have some respect for President Ryerson
"I love it that you used my little blurp... WELLS STANDS FOR... Thanks! Very cool."
Wells has discussed the possibility of going coed since I was there in the late 60's and early 70's. It seems that they have really tried to attract more women through the years but their efforts have not worked. Wells is a wonderful institution but its location is a problem. And that you cannot change. If it were coed, I think the remoteness would be less of a problem. Times have changed. If I were eighteen and choosing a school, I would definitely choose a coed college or university.
I came to Wells wounded, and left a whole woman. The bonds of friendship that I made within my three years will extend throughout the rest of my life and it deeply saddens me that, as of now, many will never be able to fully experience what I did.
I wish every woman who wanted it could have the experience I had at Wells. I didn't start out seeking a single-sex education when I chose Wells, but now I think it was the best choice I could have made for my intellectual, social and personal development. Wells is a gem and should be marketed as such. It's important that Wells be financially viable, but it should not put the bottom line ahead of the mission to teach and empower women.
see following e-mail
"NEW ADMISSION STAFF!!!!
MORE $$ SPENT ON BOOKS FOR THE LIBRARY, ACEDEMIC PROGRAMS, SCIENCE
LESS $$ SPENT ON COUCHES, PILLOWS, CURTAINS, RUGS
I support the students for standing up for their beliefs. Seeing Wells become coeducational would be devastating. Young women need a place to learn where they do not have to feel the pressure of having to compete with men for attention in class. I sincerely think that the administration and trustees were quick to make their decision without the input of the entire Wellls community -- alumnae, faculty, students, parents, and Aurora.
The process was arrogant. It was made by an administration lacking experience and expertise in communication/PR skills with alumnae, students and faculty - and by a Board of Trustees lacking in judgment and business planning. It is time for the administration and leadership of the Board to step down.
Enrollment will increase by adding males and those women who wish to attend a co-ed college, but I think we'll have a huge increase in transfers by people who realize that Wells is not what they thought it was. Next year is too fast to work out the details of housing, sports, new traditions, and give current students time to adapt. I think that going co-ed is equivalent to Wells throwing its whole history away.
If Wells goes co-ed I will refuse to give any financial support.
I think the communication to alumnae about this issue has been awful! I only heard about Wells going co-ed after the Trustees had made the decision! I had absolutely no time to voice my opinion.
The current students have every right to protest in whatever way they seem fit.
I am sure that I would not have become as strong and independent a person without the Wells experience.
As an alum, I will not donate to a coeducational Wells College. I supported the petition to the Board of Trustees to allow the students, faculty and alumnae the ability to be part of the study for a solution, part of the discussion. When the Board announced its closeted decsion derived from secret studies and backroom meetings, I now join the very large and growing sisterhood of alumnae that would prefer to see Wells College dead, not coed.
My first choice would be to keep Wells single-sex. I do know that through the years the school has tried a variety of tactics to up enrollment;efforts have failed.I feel that incoming freshman who were not told of a possible change were mislead and waiting four years, at least starting slowly with coeducation would only be fair.Thank you for allowing my input.
Coeducation will destroy Wells as surely as if they padlocked the doors tomorrow. Please do not do this terrible thing.
I do not think that going coed will correct the problems of marketing and management. I think it is unfair to the present student body who have come to Wells expecting 4 years of a women's college to be told that their school is now coed. It is a misrepresentation to the current student body.
"Wells is about to loose its identity along with strongest most loyal supporters. Rather than gambling endowment dollars on urinals etc. Wells should spend 4 years on a coordinated campaign with alumni and an expert consultant firm. The fruits could provide the vision to revitalize the collage and its support base, and increase enrollment. If the coed path is Wells best option, then Wells could move forward with the support that will be critical to make such a radical transition a success.
A good, thoughtful decision. I hope that the entire Wells community gets behind the decision, so that no stone is left unturned to see that the co-educational approach is successful.
This is simply WRONG, and I will never again support the college either financially or even verbally if this is not reversed ASAP.
As a student, I truly thought that everyone in the Wells community sincerely believed in Wells' mission to educate women. I am shocked to learn-very abruptly- that Wells is now going co-ed. To me, my alma mater will no longer exist. I commend the students for their protest. I think the process was not transparent enough and although I respect the trustees' decision, I am sad that my opinion of a true belief in Wells as a place to educate women was an illusion.
I've emailed separately
I have not beeen in a financial position to contribute to Wells; bnut I have always known that it would be a top priority for me when my children are grown. I have made wise investments and one day hope to contribute to Wells. If Wells is coed I would not consider contributing in any way.
I am torn about this decision. I feel that wells is a very special place and being all women is a part of this. but I would also rather see wells go coed than see wells drop out of existence. I do agree there was not enough communication or participation of students and alum in this decision, which was a mistake. I would prefer an alternative to this decision, but I do NOT want wells to go out of business-- coed or not.
It is disturbing to know that the once wonderful school that I grew up at will change. I don't think that the people that have made the decision have realized the lengths to which Wells' women will go to save their alma mater. I also believe that they will lose many potential endowment opportunities in the future by making this decision and by how much annual giving funds will drop.
first, i don't know what students' actions are, so can't comment.
second, i've seen wells reorganize its mission, try different approaches, etc., and as a marketing professional know that it isn't the answer when you have a product few people want to buy. when that happens, you have to reevaluate your value proposition and figure out how to fix it to generate interest.
I am appalled at this decision.I sent an email prior to the announcement,but did not receive a response. This decision appears to have been made without alumnae feedback.Even the announcement letter, which was mailed days after the entire nation became aware of this news, encouraged feedback. Perhaps the President only wants positive feedback. I do not support this decision,and have withdrawn my financial support.As far as I am concerned, I no longer have an alma mater.
I thought it came out of the blue. Totally unexpected, and this monumental a change should not creep up on the people who love Wells.
. The administration should have known that the emotional impact of this decision required that the college community and alumnae be involved in the process and convinced of its necessity.
I'd be more inclined to support Wells financially if I had confidence in the administration. The decision to become co-ed appears to have been arrived at with a pre-determined outcome. The College: alums, students, and faculty have not benefitted from the arrogant and clumsy way the process was implemented. The college looks as if it's poorly run and that reflects badly on everyone associated with it.
I have written an open letter to President Ryerson and senior staff, copying members of the press who have covered the developing story, and it can be read in toto on the Wells group message board on Yahoo!, where someone posted it.
Re enrollment objectives: I doubt the ability of the existing administration to accomplish the objectives.
Re escrow account: I'd be happier if the the question ended: ...upon reversal of the decision to become co-educational."" I.e. Generally I'm sad I'm appalled at how this process was handled and I've already written off my '04 contribution to the annual fund."""
I fully support the current students' fight to keep their college true to its mission and purpose. I question the timing of this decision and the necessity for it. I doubt they would be able to recruit very many male students for the next academic year at this late date, and I can't see how it won't end up costing the college more, or end up destroying the athletic program. Wells is a college for WOMEN! Let's keep it that way!
The current administration has proven itself inept not only in achieving the mission of the college but also in maintaining open and meaningful communication with its students. President Ryerson has demonstrated that she has neither the skills nor the commitment to lead the college at this time. She has alienated the both the student body and the alumni. It is the administration of the college that should be changed, not its mission.
I worked at Wells for 20 years including my 4 years as a student and I know from the inside how mismanaged, corrupt and dysfunctional it is, and will so remain, whether single-sex or co-ed, unless there is dramatic reform. The organizational dysfunction is deeply ingrained in the institution, not just the people. It will take a clean sweep to really save" Wells. Wells has been a great place for an undergrad education
My husband and I have reached a point in our lives that we are considering increasing our philanthropic donations. If Wells became co-educational, it would no longer be in alignment with our views of education which is strongly in favor of Wells remaining single sex. We would then direct our donations to colleges who have remained steadfast to the mission of women's education.
I haven't been too much of a contributor in the past and at present I would not be able to contribute too much, but a reversal would make sure I would contribute yearly.
I have always kept Wells dear to my heart--and my pocket book. I am not rich, by any means, but I give freely and whenever I could. I have also served as an active Class Secretary since graduation. I have never stopped advocating Wells to anyone. I am open to change--but, only if it's rational and logistical. This recent news--does not seem of either nature. Remind the Board of Trustees of our Alma Mater. It might not hurt to remind them that we're a loyal and proud bunch of women.
I am disappointed with the trustees and president for their non effort in seeking out alumni opinion. I don't like that I found out about their decision from a media source. I believe that the way they came to this decision, like so many before, is a prefect example of the board⤙s parental mentality. We need a board and president that understand the Wells mission and are dedicated to addressing this financial issue" with appropriate solutions and real dialogue."
I am disappointed that the alumnae were not consulted before the decision was made.
Will send in an e-mail
I work in academia and over the last 7 years have been at 3 different institutions. At each, enrollments rose yearly. At Boston University, my college this year had a doubling of their freshman class. I don't understand the Wells administration's obvious incompetence, but don't believe that coeducation is the way to fix it. Change the administration--maybe new blood will attract more students.
I stand with the protesting students and will do whatever I can to keep Wells for women.
Perhaps Wells should work WITH involved/interested students and alumna, instead of just focusing on the group-think of the board of trustees. Coeducation should be a last resort. Where did the options discussed" in 2004 go? Create graduate programs. Extend the book arts and international studies. Those are changes that can be backed off on if need be. If coeducation doesn't work
My husband taught Latin and Greek. When he retired his department was eliminated. This also happened with Professor Renzi. Wells has continued to whittle down an excellent curriculum without developing curricula for the 21. century. It no longer emphasizes excellent teaching, but part- time teachers. This is a no-win situation for all sides and will not attract men either.
The board of trustees has to consider first what kind of a college it wants involving the whole Wells community."
I am heavily indebted from grad school loans and cannot make Wells a top philanthropic priority now. There are ways to attract investment that do not involve asking alumnae for money. Wells needs a development staff that knows how to market Wells to philanthropic organizations and corporate sponsors. The breakdown in communication between the trustees, the President, the students and the alumnae is unforgivable and Lisa Ryerson should resign immediately.
I think that the students, and alumnae of Wells College truly believe in and are commited to their institution: one that remains single-sex, for women. I also think that the voices of said people should be heard! How can a 136 year tradition be destroyed? We are not Henry Wells, we cannot make this decision.
Honestly, I was disgusted when I found out that Wells was even thinking about becoming co-ed. But, when I attended Wells (I just graduated in 2003) the all-women's education and foundation was so strong that I had full confidence and faith in the President and the trustees that this would never fly, not at Wells. Aparently, I was wrong. Bad move, Wells!
It is difficult to point the finger of blame at any one individual or department. Information concerning financial details surrounding this emergency have not been forthcoming. I believe in continuing the Wells tradition of single-sex education. If all viable options have been exhausted
I cannot commit to making Wells College a top philanthropic priority" if it re-commits to staying a single sex institution if the same management stays in place. I have no faith in the current leadership (Lisa Marsh Ryerson and Ann Rollo
Thanks for the survey, as an alumna I am pleased to fill it out however, if you really want to do an accurate and true survey, might want to make it neutral. Thanks for the opportunity to share.
I believe in a woman's school, but times have changed. Although Wells may remain open if it stays single sex, I believe its quality would suffer, as I believe it has since I've graduated. The diversity goals are lacking, as the idelogical make-up of the student body and dean of students has changed. My sister went to Wells, and Ive seen a close-minded, aspect of Wells, harmful to women, in the most elemental sense.
I totally oppose the decision of Wells being a coeducational insitituation. I think that more efforts need to made in recruitment, etc. If the decision in not reversed, I would most likely not continue to contribute to the annual fund. I also feel that the administration was misleading regarding their intentions, leading many of us not realize the seriouseness of the situation.
I have no confidence in either Lisa Ryerson or the current Board of Trustees to lead us forward and both should be replaced. New ways of marketing women's education must be employed. Let's go back to asking alumnae to participate in college nights and general student recruitment. Let's use students as well. They are our best product. I will do all I can to help Wells remain true to its mission.
The students' reaction is typical of their time as a young generation. Their voice has little impact on a decision that had already been formulated for years and thus made. I felt true sadness when I received official news of the college's decision to go co-ed. I no longer have the desire to financially contribute to an institution that is merely a collection of memories. The reality of our sisterhood is no longer represented.
It is very difficult personally to defend the continuation of a single sex college. I am called a 'liberal man hating lesbian.' Women still struggle in leadership roles, finding equality amongst coworkers and even in their personal lives.Board must reconsider their decision-there is not yet a place for men to be living and sharing in our education when I believe that in a few short years they will take over the leadersip roles, the class room and our traditions.MEN DOES NOT EQUAL MONEY.
See separate e-mail
I believe that admin has a hidden agenda and making Wells a viable women's college again is not part of it. If women don't want to come to Wells, whey would men? The administration has not made any real attempts to create the exciting academic environment that would attract young women a nd make for an exciting learning enviroment. My class ('67) was nearly 200 students. What happened?
Options explored to improve admissions were outlandish and ridiculous (ie moving historic buildings to improve the sightline to the lake.) I⤙ve never been asked to do more than hand out business cards to prospective students (and that was a couple months ago). I don't know any kids. I would've talked to interested students or hosted admissions personnel- if I⤙d been asked. I am proud of the students and alumni protesting the decision, they represent the true spirit of Wells Women.
I would support Wells if the administration changed. I would support Wells if it stayed all women. But crucial to the success of Wells at this point is a NEW ADMINISTRATION.
Wells is one of my top priorities. As I can increase my support, I will. Not willing to put my money into an institution that has gutted its mission nor to an escrow account without condition that all donations be returned, in total, to each contributor if the decision is not reversed. Not all of us have funds to lightly throw away.
HAD DIFFICULTY SUBMITTING- REPLY WAS SENT SEPERATELY TO EMAIL
I feel that Wells made a serious mistake in not publicly offering an organized forum for students, faculty and alumnae to voice their opinions on the coeducation issue. Even if the decision reached would have remained the same -- to go coeducational -- at least these constituencies would have felt that the College cared about and considered their input. Instead, a grassroots alumnae petition, sit-ins by students, etc., resulted and people are angry, hurt and feeling vengeful.
I have no faith in this administration to either successfully navigate the transition process or to adequately market the college as is.
I am in complete support of the students actions. The Wells I attended was jointly governed by students, alumnae, faculty and the administration/board of trustees. It has become a dictatorship by the administration and board (whose membership has been chosen by the administration) which gives lip service to participation by the remainder of the community. I was told by a close friend that Wheaton called every alumnae prior to that change by phone a number of times
If money is the issue & it takes more students to fill the gap - I'm not sure what they would do wil 2,000 students, 1,000, or even 750?
I wonderif this move would generate fewer students, and less support from alumni and other sources."
Of all of the options considered and tried over the years, I believe that this is the least likely to save the college - I truly believe that it is the writing on the wall" leading to a pathetic and sad physical and academic demise - I have watched this process at another institution whose circumstances were similar.
I believe that if the administration had been more honest with the alums this may not have been necessary. I firmly believe that had more alums known how bad the situation had become they would have been more willing to contribute in whatever way possible to ensure Wells stands on HER own feet. I feel that what is happening is exactly what Henry Wells did not want. I think that the administration should be held more accountable for its actions that led to this situation.
"I support the students in their protest and have no doubt that I would be among them if this decision had come down during my own time on campus. I would have -- without question -- TRANSFERRED to another women's college.
I would rather see Wells close instead of going co-ed. Wells will now be just another regular choice amongst the hundreds of small liberal arts colleges struggling to survive. Many factors will work against us ⤓ this is not the ⤜cure�. To ask alumnae to fund special accounts for its survival is not appropriate. Wells belongs to the students there now.
I think the process has been undemocratic and I would give a vote of no confidence" to the present administration. If an escrow account is established
I don't think co-education is going to solve everything. I hope there are other measures being taken. I'd like to see the science building built, for example, and have something _positive_ to promote; Wells as a leader in science, investing in education. Not focused on the social life of shallow high school girls. Because that's what it sounds like now.
I give to Wells but I don't give to my graduate school. The education that I received at Wells is worth so much more than I could ever repay financially. The thought that students who attend co-ed Wells will never have that experience and maintain the fierce loyalty that I and my fellow graduates display is desperately disturbing to me. I am now shopping around for another Women's college to support financially as co-ed Wells College will never see another dime from me.
this desion goes against the very reason the college was created. I think henry wells would rather see wells close than go co-ed.
In recent years, I've seen large funds invested in campus beautification. Insufficient funds have been set aside to develop curriculm and educational programs that meet the needs of women for the 21st Century.
While I was at Wells, I felt confident that Dr. Plane was setting the school on a course for success -- I observed an increase in contributions, enrollment and a path was being set for the development of solid programs.
Unless a complete cultural overhaul is achieved for Wells College's Trustees and administration I believe that Wells will eventually close in doors in the next ten years
Unnecessary. Recognizing the fiscal crunch the I believe that a concentrated, professional recruiting effort should be undertaken and has not been. Fire Lisa. Replace the Trustees with business-oriented people with common sense. Hire the best professional admissions person available, pay him/her well, dangle a carrot.
Wells College needs to survive. No one wants to say they graduated from their beloved college but, oh well, it died. The school needs to move forward. People who do not accept co-education and the fact that Wells is battling a very isolated, lonely location have to wake up. All the marketing in the world hasn't turned the school around. To survive they need to increase enrollment. Wells can still be a good school but changes have to be made. Better co-ed than closed.
I am extremely angry that the imminence of coeducation was not communicated with the alumnae and that we were not involved in the process. Should Wells become a coeducational school, it will no longer be the college that I attended because the principles that were in place when I was a student will no longer be adhered to. As a consequence, I will not make any contributions, whether monetary or otherwise.
I was VERY upset when I found out that Wells had gone co-educational...a part of me changed. I have always looked back at my years at Wells fondly. But I hate to have our future sisters lose out on the experience I enjoyed. I was able to be part of the student government, which I might have been intimidated to do if there were men on campus. I just wonder what Henry Wells would think about what is going on right now....
I loved Wells, and worked so hard to make it a good place. I am upset and saddened about how Wells went to co-education and how they decided upon this huge change. As a member of the FARGO board, I did not feel engaged at all concerning this decision and I think that it is terribly wrong not to engage Wells College community members. Are they afraid we will disagree with them? Perhaps there is a reason most of us disagree. I feel there could have been at least three alternate courses of action.
I have the impression that in the end the decision to go coed happened quickly. Were other options aggressively pursued first? I am not sure the move to coeducation which worked for places like Vassar years ago can work for Wells in the 21st century. Where is the careful analysis in support of that argument? I am also disappointed that I have not yet heard our president speak about how she feels AS AN ALUMNA in making this decision.
The idea that so many alumni came forward to stop this and were completely disregarded and not informed of the decision making process for such a change is reprehensible. I highly value my women's education and had planned to contribute financially to Wells as much as I was able once I had gotten established. If Wells goes forward with this decision to become coed, the college will never receive a dime from me. I support the students in their protest and pray for their continued perseverance.
Please know this decision has caused me not to give my $1000 a year , plus the match by my company, meaning $2000. This is a good finacial reason for thinking again. I am personally willing to help approach possible key donors, if that would be needed.
The board of trustees's previously pledged commitment to women's education has evaporated. They claim that the foundation of the institution, which has held strong for over a century, rather than mismanagement, is to blame for financial decline, and so they opt to abandon the history and tradition of Wells, despite opposition, in favor of constructing in its place a dime-a-dozen coeducational college, therein implying that the existing Wells College and her students are not worth trying to save.
I was shocked by the Trustees' decision. I was never notified about any discussions/panels about the reasons and/or necessity for going coed and can only assume that there were none. I am proud of the students' efforts and only wish I could be with them.
If the students were NOT protesting it would mean Wells had failed. Book Arts, Int'l Studies, and Grad programs do not inhibit our classroom and residential experience. After all the discussion in regards to implementing these three options, the trustees seem to have skipped right over them. I do not claim to have all the financial facts, but I think the college owes it to the current students to allow them to graduate from the Wells they applied to.
I transferred to Wells from a large SUNY campus. At Wells I found my voice, my confidence, and my academic stride. For whatever reason, I was unable to develop these while in a coeducational setting. Gender defined roles are so heavily ingrained, especially for the under - 30 group, that it is hard to recognize the influence until you are in a situation that removes those messages and constraints.
"If we were told that there would be a three year time period of testing new strategies prior to a co-education decision, this would have rallied support immeasurably.
There are also action items that the college must undertake, including:
1. Creating a change in the Admissions Director.
2. Updating the college website.
3. Allowing free application.
Thank you again for compiling this important feedback!
I would give anything for Wells to remain all women. All of my available time, talent, and monies I would be willing to spend on Wells. The thought of Wells changing in such a vast was saddens me deeply.
We need to foster grass-roots community and college and business partnerhips across the nation and the globe to attract a diversity of woman and seek capital to support Wells uniqueness!! I wish I had the financial resources to catalyze such an extensive revitalization of our marketing and public relations campaigns. We need to operate with a consciousness of 'abundance' and foster enrollment based on the theory of attraction rather than desperation (scarcity.)"
I am so proud of the students for taking a stand against the trustees' decision. They have made me proud to be an alum of Wells College and to me, represent the ideals that Wells has always stood for.
The current enrolled students have every right to be upset by the trustees decision. I wouldn't be surprised if many of them transfer - and then what will Wells College do? Those students are at Wells to get an all women's education. Having men join the equation before they graduate is extremely unfair to them. I would suggest waiting at least 2 years.
Enrollment is down because Wells is virtually unknown and fault lies with this administration. Why is a strong countrywide college fair network not in place to inform perspective students about Wells? Since Wells boasts successful career women, why not ask alumnae on a periodic basis to share their career experiences? If Wells is not a well known college, how can the group responsible for the coed decision reasonably deduce that enrollment will suddenly increase with the admission of men?
I hope Wells continues in its traditions of listening to her students and educating strong women. Be she a woman's college or coed I will always financially support Wells. I will however in the short future have trouble encouraging my students to consider Wells. It seems to me she doesn't know who she is anymore and for that I am sad. Wells served me well. I am sad to see this change.
I think the communication of this decision was poorly timed. I would have preferred the intital establishment of a coed graduate program followed by a conversion to coed education. As a parent I see no interest in, even an aversion to, women's colleges among the young women I know. I would rather have a vibrant, larger, coed Wells than an ever fragile, second rate women's college, a school my daughter would consider. Sorry to disappoint but this is how I feel.
Though I understand the passionate emotions the decision has provoked, this QA seems badly timed. The college, perhaps, would add to its plagued condition if it were to reverse its decision. What then if it had to re-reverse? Withal, I sympathize with opposing views to coeducation, though it seems as if 40 years of fiscal problems have plagued the school. Is coeducation worse than closure of college?
I got the impression from Express things were going well, there has been plenty of money to tear down libraries and refinish buildings that (I thought) were fine, and lower tuition.So, this announcement has caught me off guard.I graduated in 1987 and there's a picture in our yearbook of a vigil we held to keep Wells single-sex.I don't think this is a new question/threat.I don't think time to transition is an answer.
I am proud to call those girls who are protesting my sisters. They are the embodiment of what Wells teaches every women who passes through her. You cannot attend that college without walking away having been touched by her. The decision to go co-ed is a mistake, Wells will surely lose her identity in the process and I cannot help but feel sorry for the generations of women who will not experience the comraderie Wells instills if the decision to go co-ed is not reversed.
I believe that mention of the possibility has been offered to alumnae but that it has not been presented in a way to encourage feedback during the decision making process. Now that a decision has been made by a few representatives it is time that those they represent Alumnae and current students have the opportunity to dispute and insist that this process become transparent and contributory before a binding decision is made.
"I applaud the actions of current Wells women, who made the choice of attending not just any single sex institution but Wells to ask that the process be slowed down.
Wells will no longer be Wells with the addition of men. I would not be the woman I am today The only GOOD to come out of it would be that my son could apply to Wells since my daughter is pursuing a career in Music and Wells no longer offers that major.
I will answer under separate e-mail (What Wells woman can express her opinion in 500 characters or less??)
I feel there has been, and continues to be a lack of communication between all of the constituencies of the college. As an alum who reads EVERYTHING the college puts out, I really thought the college was going to explore the revenue of expanding certain programs for Wells, not make the entire school co-educational in a short time frame. I honestly, don't think I can give financial support to a co-education Wells College.
The decision has been a long time coming. I am not thrilled with the process. Wish there had been more communication with the alumnae, but I believe in the Board of Trustees and support their decision.
Returned from vacation to news of the vote & was stunned & completely surprised. How will they suddenly accommodate men on campus next year? How many men will even apply, considering that admissions deadlines are rapidly approaching? Pres Ryerson has touted the value of women's ed for yrs, & suddenly Wells needs men to fix it. I realize that Wells can't exist in stasis, that it must continually grow & adapt, but this isn't adaptation or even evolution. Coeducation will ruin Wells, not save her.
I fully support the students' action and applaud their courage and conviction. I think the entire administration should be fired, and that Wells needs a strong, qualified president who can lead her to greatness. The administration is smug, disrespectful, and insensitive to the many people in the College community who question this decision.
I truly believe if you change the college to co-ed you will be losing most of Wells importance and the whole purpose why women attend the college. I had a wonderful experience there full of fun and traditions and I don't see those traditions being up held if it goes co-ed. There is history there and I'd like to see it stay as it is.
I have not been a faithful contributor to Wells College - putting my philanthropic dollars toward other groups - however, now seeing the imminent danger of losing this rare opportunity for women, I would be willing to add it to my supported groups
I truly believe that women's education is not a popular option for most women of the 21st century. To get the best students, the school should go coed. While I regret this in some ways, I think it is the best decision overall. Enrollments will probably go up and so will the quality of the applicants. I also think that linking up with programs at Cornell (those not offered at Wells) is a good idea for those students able to handle the rigor of Cornell's engineering courses, etc.
I am more dismayed each day by the lack of respect for the students, alumnae and parents on the part of the administration and Trustees. By making this decision the Trustees and administration have effectively murdered someone who was incredibly influential in my life and was dearly loved.
I am saddened that the trustees feel this is the best solution to keep Wells College open. I do not know the extent of marketing etc. that has been done to increase enrollment. I feel helpless in assisting in increasing enrollment. Here in the midwest most students choose a public college or university.
I have always made Wells a philanthropic priority, but I can tell from the annual list of donors that many other alumnae do not.
I will continue to support Wells finanacially, and feel that coeducation has been the inevitable outcome of discussions which have been going on for at least since I attended Wells in the 60s. I'm sad to see it come to this, but would choose a future with men over closing the school, a real possibility, I believe.
That said, I fully understand the frustration and anger expressed by the current students, and feel that the administration has been unfair to them."
I don't have a lot of spare money to give away, but for the past few years I've been so disgusted with Wells that I haven't given at all, I've given to the school were I went to graduate school instead, I would certainly reconsider my decision to give money to Wells if they remain single sex, they won't see a dime if they go co-ed
I'm unconvinced students, alumnae, faculty and staff had a voice. I am deeply disappointed and distressed over the lack of feedback and communication sought from the alumnae. If alumnae were so treated so were current students, faculty and staff. If Wells College goes coeducational they should change the name as it will NO LONGER be Wells College. I haven't always been able to support Wells - but when I have Wells was a priority over other schools. My financial contributions will stop.
I do NOT support a coed Wells. I am disappointed in the lack of responsibility shown by the administration and the Trustees. The lip service given to alumnae, students and parents is appalling. The decisions of the past few years have only harmed Wells’ reputation. I hope that administration and Trustees will remember why Henry Wells founded his college: it was not for his greater glory, not as a corporation, but to invest in the education, accomplishments, and the future of young women.
If there is truly no longer a need for single sex education, and young women today feel like it is no longer a desirable option, then Wells has fulfilled its mission and the closure of the college is the right thing to do. At any rate, the Wells that I attended is dead, with male matriculated undergraduate students.
Due to Wells' abyssmal record of its treatment towards lesbian students, I have never contributed to Wells College. I MAY consider to do so, IF they reversed this coed decision and had better fiscal management. I have little reassurance that things are any better there on campus today as they were in the early 70's. So, I cannot commit
I met some of the student protesters this weekend and was so proud of their determination and leadership. I hope that we can support their efforts and convince the trustees to overturn this decision. I will not financially support a coeducational institution.
Wells has lost its focus. The current administration and admissions office staff have been in place much longer than they should be for a college that is not having success. New professionals need to be brought into both the President's office and the Admissions office and a major marketing move needs to take place. The Presidents office requires a bigger name and network ability and Lisa Marsh Ryerson can provide in order to improve fundraising.
I think it was a very brave, bold decision to go coed and I strongly support it.
Wells College is not a transparent organization. The problems at Wells are similar to the problems we've been reading about with many corporations - a lack of transparency, lack of oversight, and a lack of honesty. Something needs to change.
This decision probably became inevitable in the 70's/80's when men's colleges started accepting women.
The efforts to sustain Wells as a totally women's college have been many and have not achieved the necessary results.
It was a very difficult decision, but clearly one in the best interest of sustaining the spirit of Wells.
To my knowledge no student/alumnae surveys have been done to identify the weaknesses. Also, there haven't been many changes in administration---perhaps this could offer different ideas. Also, according to admissions stats in 1997-98, the current enrollment IS up. By going co-ed the school will lose it's marketability while turning away alumnae support. I think the administration and the board should rethink what is best for Wells and not worry about their stand against the students.
I'm basically opposed to co-education, I feel that it defeats the purpose of providing a space for women and contradicts the message that such a space is valuable. However, since my mother and grandmother are also Wells women, and we are all saddened at this turn of events, we will endeavor to support the college as best we can. It will take me quite sometime to come round to giving my support though. My other granmother went to Vassar, and she still won't forgive them for going co-ed.
I totally agree with the students and if I could I would be there to support their decision and help them in any way I could. I would be there out on that lawn under those tents with them. The decision that was made was ludacris and should definitely be overturned!
The board of trustees have acted on their own volition and have no regard for any dissenting opinions. Lisa Ryerson is a failure and the board is in violation of the by laws of the state of New York.
I don't think that going coed will fulfill the board's desire to improve the fiscal outlook. I think we would lose more students than we gain.
I think the decision to go coed is long overdue. The things I loved about Wells as an all-women's institution are just not viable in today's market. I feel that the communications we have received from the administration in the years leading up to this decision have been thoughtful and practical. There may have been some financial mismanagement---I don't know---but I think Wells is not viable the way it is and has been. Change is not easy but we have to go for it.
I think this decision has an enormous emotional impact on many of us. I feel that Wells is giving up THE MISSION for woman.
Educational research supports that females perform much more strongly, especially in the sciences and technical fields, when attending female-only classes. These fields are still overwhelmingly dominated by males, and, teachers/faculty continue to favor (many times unconsciously) the males in their classes.
Hence, I definitely see the need for an all-female setting.
I would be happy to elaborate and you may contact me at my email address
I think the college made a big mistake not advising current students - particularly incoming freshmen and their parents - that there was a strong possibility that Wells would become co-educational in the very near future. I would only go along with the decision to become co-ed if that was absolutely the only possible way to save the college.
I have no idea how to answer these questions, as I don't think Wells has shared all the information necessary to make them. I know enrollment has not been where it needs to be, but I have no idea what Wells has really tried to rectify the situation. I do know I'd rather see Wells go co-ed and survive than close altogether.
Has Wells done focus groups with young women to determine what, if anything, would get them to go to an all-women's college?
As things stand, I wholeheartedly support the protesters and the petitioners, and am ashamed that the board of trustees and administration could not bring themselves to go about this in an open and sensible manner. Had they gone about this decision with any forethought at all, they would not be dealing with the response they now have. A gradual switchover, if they honestly believed it best, would have been far better.
Many alumnae have become disenfranchised from Wells and its mission over the past 20 years for a number of reasons (Ryerson being named to the presidency without a formal search; the concerted effort by college administration to bring the alumnae office under the aegis of the college administration rather than leave it as an independent operation; the influence of one alumna's ” beneficence" on Wells operations and the town.).
I have been deeply disappointed in the administrative's actions and processes. This administration seems to be unilaterally making decisions without a great deal of forethought or research.
On the other hand, the efforts and dedication of students and alumnae have reawakened in me a keen sense of pride and commitment to my old alma mater. Should Wells remain a woman's college, I will rededicate myself to her well-being. Should the college go coed, I will consider the college deceased.
I understand the financial issues the college is facing but we made the wrong decision a few years ago when we lowered academic standards. We need to actually do the opposite. Women will come if we are preceived as highly competitive". We should be looking at who our competition is among the highly competitive women's colleges
Make the curriculum a year-round program for more efficient use. This could be accomplished in several ways: accelerated undergraduate possibilities, graduate studies for students and workforce candidates, Elderhostel and corporate advancement programs, etc.
I do not have much money to give. However if well's goes co-ed, I will no longer give the little I've been able to so far.
If wells goes co-ed, I will probably withdraw all financial support.
I feel as an alumnae on the West Coast, I am not privy to the had facts of how hard the management" has deeply tried every avenue to keep up funding and enrollment. What I have read suggests they have tried sufficient avenues. Given Wells location and isolation
Wells is currently managed by both an administration and Board of Trustees lacking in sufficient academic credentials and experience. The co-education decision is just the worst of several recent decisions.
I will not support Wells as a coed institution.
I have sent more than 500 words by separate email.
I feel betrayed. I am proud of the young women currently at Wells and honored to share a tradition of strong convictions.
I would like to see the ENTIRE Wells community involved in discussions about how to take Wells into the future without turning it into something it was never supposed to be.... an average co-ed college and a loss of strong female traditions."
Wells women are the brightest I've known. They deserve the environment they signed up for, and past and future Wells Women deserve a stronger Wells, as a single-sex institution. This survey is a phenomenal contribution, and you can not know how much your efforts are appreciated. People and movements are subordinated every day in this world, but I will help ensure that now and future Wells Women will thrive.
The decision is made. Lets go forward and make it work.
The female only environment allowed my daughter to become the vibrant, capable and wholly competent person she is today. She knew she needed the freedom provided in such a setting in order to focus entirely on her stated goal -- a high quality education. Her sister with a BS and Masters from Penn State had a far less satisfactory experience on every level.
The co-ed option only guarantees a further slide into mediocrity.
This administration and board of trustees is dismissed. It is clear that they have lost sight of what Wells stands for, how to nurture and grow her tenderly and caringly, and how to effectively communicate with the broader Wells community. It has been time for a change since that fateful snowstorm some years back in which an incompetent president was hired. THAT'S the decision that really needs to be reversed!!!
The difference between the decision made at Wells and the decisions made at other formerly single-sex colleges is one of openness. In all the times the college contacted me over the last six months for contributions and referrals, there was never an indication that I would be sending money or student referrals to a coeducational institution. I feel that communications from Wells have been misleading if not thoroughly dishonest.
As an alumna who will be certified as a guidance counselor in 2005 I have communicated my intention with SOS and Wells administration that I will never support Wells as a coeducational institution and will never refer any students to it. The college's recruitment efforts have been an abysmal failure and their retention rates are horrible. Perhaps they should start there.
The school has not communicated enough to the Wells community to deserve its support. If the research has been done, release all of the findings. I am willing to support the school, if they prove they did all possible to protect the mission. Going coed quickly is a mistake. There is work to do for this change. The school is setting itself up to fail. Do they know what high school boys look for in a college? Can Wells differentiate itself from the countless other coed schools in Upsate NY?
I stongly support the mission of the students. The Admin simply haven't tried hard enough at the other options that may increase enrollment. Also, the decision should have been made so rash. I would have probably given to the college and help recruit more if the trustess had said on October 2, if we don't see enrollment increase by *date* then we will have to start admitting men. This whole event could have been much more proactive than reactive."
Wells College has always prided themselves on helping to create strong, determined women. We were encouraged to be leaders and to speak our opinion. However, this encouragement seems hypocritical because anytime we speak out against decisions that are made by the administration, without even consulting the student body or the alumnae, we are pushed down. The administration needs to listen to the voices that they helped to create and revoke the decision to make Wells College coed.
At the heart of it, I'd rather have a co-ed Wells than a dead Wells, but the administration did not tell us the truth about this. We weren't kept informed as alums. In a way, I feel as if I were treated like a child: if you can't donate millions of dollars, you don't count.
My greatest anger and disappointment is around the administration's lack of communication with the alums and current students. "
Renamed, we can be clear about the college that existed for the education of women and the new version designed to honor women" and "maintain financial stability". Ironic that a women's college embraces men for financial security. I think that unhappy students should contact alternative women's colleges and begin the transfer process. Perhaps a further declining enrollment would send a message. If women's colleges are truly in such dire straights
The issue here is the lack of communication and participation in the decision to go co-ed. The students have every right to be angry, I commend their actions. If my daughter was at Wells I would be extremely upset that her college career was in jeopardy due to a lack of communication by the administration. The school and alum have wasted money in areas that could have helped prevent this (Pleasant Rowland's millions could have done a lot more good than buying over priced furniture and drapes).
Wells has tried several changes in past 5 years-i.e. decrease tuition, change in curriculum to attract more students, cross enroll with Cornell.
do not think alumnae thought Wells would ever take action to go co-ed so they did not do all they could to get students there.
cannot provide quality education, social, experience with only 300 girls there.
articulate passionate student body-they are there because it is a women's college
I do not believe Wells' greatest asset was truly informed or given a chance to express views regarding such a drastic change on campus - the Alums. We are still very much in the dark about what is going on on campus, none of the official" news from the college about this has mentioned any opposition by the students. As my mother says
The administration has endorsed women's education, outlining its many benefits.To open the college to coeducation is hypocritical and makes me question the reliability of the administration.It is unacceptable that current students enrolled expecting a particular type of education and will now have to look elsewhere for it.Parents paying for their daughters to recieve this education were given no information.I think that was completely irresponsible on the part of the administration.
Wells's board has made some good recommendations along with the decision to go co-ed. They need to give these other plans time to work before drastically changing the college is such a fundamental way.
see email
Ideas:promote the benefits of women's only education - i think high school girls and parents have no idea about the value of an all women's school.
Wells should try to get more women transfers and older students -- they tend to appreciate the differences between what coed schools offer, and how the wells experience (women only).
if it must be coed, can there be a majority % of women students to keep campus makeup primarily women?
Too large of a decision to have been made with so little involvement of all interested parties! It seemed like it was a remote possibility -- just a rumor -- and then it happened.
I am against Wells EVER being coeducational.
I am appalled at the SPEED management took to decide to change and that they decided not to have EVERYONE involved in the discussion - faculty who teach - alumnae who financially support - current students who expect 4 years of a women's education. If ""management"" had asked alumnae for new ideas to become fiscally independent I'm sure the alumnae who have had excellent Wells' educations would have come up with something besides co-education!
I think it is possible for Wells to refocus its markieting campaign to increase enrollment.
Perhaps Wells could focus on one area of education, like the sciences, for women and market itself with admission rates into medical schools, engineering graduate programs, bio-technology, etc. In other words, create a niche educational environment in an area that is not traditionally welcoming to women in co-educational institutions."
Thank you for taking action. I support the students whole-heartedly.
I don't believe that co-education is the only solution, and I am disgusted that the administration has convinced themselves that it is.
Let me know what I can do to help.
Empowering the smallest Board of Trustees in recent years to make this life changing decision for Wells is wrong. The financial mismanagement of not bringing tuition increases back to national standards over the past 3-5 years is mismanagement. There will never be a coed Wells for me so I hope if they don't rescind the decision, they change the name. I am sad to lose my alma mater, but I will not support this action ever.
as I am sure many others have shared, it is heartbreaking to hear that Wells would violate its core, it's foundation- educating women. I find it terribly ironic that a week before I heard about the decision, I received a mailing reiterating the importance and value of womens education. If the college will remain single sex, I will pledge to give my personal financial support, as much as possible.
The process did not involve the stakeholders of the college. I felt uninformed as an alumnae and would like the administration to know that I will no longer contribute financially to Wells as long as this decision stands.
I believe the administration and trustees need to re-examine their decision. They have not followed those processes that they taught us. I ask you to explore other means to stay solvent. Remain true to your history and educate Women!
Additional Comments Sent by Email
HOMEPAGE