Aquinas College has officially turned the page on a significant chapter of its history. In an announcement shared with faculty and staff, the college confirmed that the sale of the historic Brookby Estate was finalized on February 27, 2026, concluding a process that began when the property first hit the market in April 2025.
The estate has been purchased by Whitmore Custom Homes, a prominent Grand Rapids–based builder. The sale marks a strategic pivot for the college as it seeks to streamline its physical footprint and double down on its primary mission: the student experience.
Preservation Meets Development
For those worried about the fate of the historic mansion, the news brings a sigh of relief. Whitmore Custom Homes reportedly intends to:
- Preserve the historic mansion in its entirety, maintaining its architectural integrity.
- Utilize the main house as a private residence.
- Develop the surrounding acreage into four individual sites for new custom homes.
This plan strikes a balance between modern residential needs and the preservation of a local landmark that has stood as a testament to Grand Rapids' rich history.
A Strategic Reinvestment
The decision to sell was not made lightly. Sister Maureen Geary, O.P., president of Aquinas College, noted that while the transition is "bittersweet," the sale is a vital move for the college’s long-term financial health.
"This was a strategic decision — one that would reduce long-term maintenance costs and allow us to focus our resources on students and the heart of our campus," Sister Geary stated.
By offloading the high-maintenance costs associated with the 15-year-old college asset, Aquinas aims to redirect those funds toward campus infrastructure and academic programming.
Closing a 15-Year Chapter
Brookby has been an integral part of the Aquinas narrative since 2011. While the college community says goodbye to the estate, leadership remains optimistic. The move is framed as a proactive step in a broader plan to "think, plan, and invest strategically for the future."
As construction begins on the four new home sites, the Brookby mansion will remain a fixture of the neighborhood—though its days as a college venue have officially come to an end.
