STATEN ISLAND, NY – On the morning of May 12, St. John’s announced that it had finalized a deal with Wagner College to sell the property that was once home to the Staten Island campus for $35 million. 

The University announced it would be phasing out the Staten Island campus in 2022, citing significant enrollment challenges as the cause. The campus was originally consolidated by St. John’s in 1971 from Notre Dame College, a small independent women’s college founded in the 1930’s. The Torch has reported that between 2000 and 2022, enrollment decreased by 63%. 

The deal, which has been in the works since late March, will allow Wagner to expand their campus by 16.5 acres, adding 10 new buildings. Wagner’s pre-existing campus is located adjacent to the former St. John’s campus with only a quarter mile separating the two institutions. 

In April, the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) issued Wagner College the $35 million to fund the acquisition, allowing the deal to take place on Tuesday. 

According to statements from both St. John’s University and Wagner College, the sale will ensure that the facilities will continue to serve as an institution of higher learning for the Staten Island community.

“This agreement reflects a strategic decision that aligns with St. John’s long-term priorities while preserving the educational legacy of the Staten Island campus,” University President Rev. Brian Shanley said. 

Those feelings were echoed by government officials in Staten Island, who vocalized their support for the sale in Tuesday’s press release. 

“Wagner College is a cornerstone of Staten Island education and shares a rich history with St. John’s University of providing the best for their students. It always made sense that the next chapter in the story of the St. John’s campus would unfold with Wagner at the helm,” Staten Island Borough President Vito Fosella said. 

Officials from Wagner College have said they are preparing to open the expanded campus by the fall semester. 

“We will be teaching classes, holding office hours, eating, practicing and hanging out on this expanded ‘one campus’ starting this fall. Fall 2026 classes are already being scheduled with an eye to ensure we facilitate students moving between classes — a one-minute car or shuttle ride away,” reads a press release from Wagner’s President, Dr. Jeffrey A. Doggett. 

Wagner College will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony on May 20, marking the end of a long era for St. John’s.