Siena Heights University (SHU) and the Adrian Dominican Sisters today announced the formation of a joint committee to consider proposals for optimal transformed use of the University’s campus, buildings, facilities and educational programs, following its academic closure in June 2026.
Co-Chaired by SHU Chairman Harry “Dusty” Steele and Adrian Dominican Prioress Elise D. García, OP, the “Phoenix Committee” carries the metaphor of new life and renewal that members of the committee hope will arise through the idea-vetting and review process they are initiating. The 12-member Phoenix Committee includes representatives of the Board of Trustees, the Adrian Dominican Sisters, Siena Heights University and the larger Adrian/Lenawee County community.
The Phoenix Committee has engaged the services of the Consulting Corps of the Counselors of Real Estate (CRE), a nonprofit organization of 1,000 worldwide commercial property professionals, to assist the exploration. The Consulting Corps is a public service program of CRE enlisting a small and impartial group of volunteers whose expertise is tailored to the needs of the client. The Consulting Corps team for this effort will make a site visit to Adrian within the next two months, coordinated by the Phoenix Committee.
Team members will interview dozens of diverse community members to obtain varied perspectives on needs and opportunities in Adrian and Lenawee County. The team will also conduct a comprehensive real estate analysis, assessing challenges, best uses and avenues for innovation. Their final report to the Phoenix Committee will include findings and suggested next steps in alignment with the mission and values of Siena Heights University and the Adrian Dominican Sisters.
In tandem with the Consulting Corps’ evaluation process, members of the Committee will invite proposals from educational institutions, community organizations, and other interested parties. Priority will be given to proposals that 1) are in alignment with the mission and values of Siena Heights University and the Adrian Dominican Sisters, 2) are financially viable, and 3) will serve the common good of the Adrian and Lenawee County communities for generations to come.
The fruits of the work of the Phoenix Committee will be sent to the Trustees of Siena Heights University for consideration. Per the University’s bylaws, the Trustees have the authority to make recommendations to the General Council of the Adrian Dominican Sisters, the institution’s founding sponsor, which has final approval. For details on criteria and deadlines for submitting a proposal, interested parties should contact Phoenix Committee Coordinator Jennifer Hunter at phoenix@adriandominicans.org.
