St. Rose residence halls close for the last time

This weekend marks the end of an era for the College of Saint Rose in Albany, a school that has helped educate New Yorkers and their teachers for generations.

The College of the Capital Region’s residence halls closed for the final time Thursday after more than 100 years.

Officials cited declining enrollment as one of the reasons for the college’s closure, along with a projected $11.3 million deficit for this year.

Several neighboring colleges have partnered with Saint Rose to facilitate student transfer.

“I thought I was going to be here at least one more year, but things happen and I’m ready for change,” Saint Rose junior Erin Duffy said.

The school’s final commencement ceremony is scheduled for this weekend.

“My sister graduated from Sage a few years ago. My mom also went to Russell Sage…I’m grateful to be able to go there,” Duffy said.

They say they will miss the sense of community on campus the most.

“Everyone is very nice to everyone,” Duffy said. “You say ‘hi’ and everyone responds. You can create a big community of friends.

Sainte Rose is one of 11 colleges to have closed their doors since 2020.

Wells College was the latest to announce its closure.

Conversations about what’s happening next to the infrastructure that makes up the college have continued since its closure was announced last year.

Albany County Executive Dan McCoy wants to buy the majority of the properties, contingent on the state creating a new public redevelopment authority.