Feb 14The School Sisters of Notre Dame Central Pacific Province (SSND) and the Southwest Minnesota Housing Partnership (SWMHP) are pleased to announce a joint effort to shape the future of the Our Lady of Good Counsel campus. For decades, SSND’s mission at Good Counsel has served as a cornerstone of the Mankato community, providing education, outreach, and sustainability efforts that have left an indelible mark on the region. Now, with a shared commitment to education, community engagement, environmental sustainability, and service to those in need, SSND and SWMHP have entered into a purchase agreement for the campus. Together, they will ensure a thoughtful transition and responsible reimagining of the site’s future.
“We, School Sisters of Notre Dame, are very grateful to enter into this purchase sale agreement with Southwest Minnesota Housing Partnership, with whom we have had a relationship for many years,” said Debra M. Sciano, SSND, Provincial Leader, Central Pacific Province of SSND. “Our mission, values, and vision for the future of the Mankato community and beyond are closely aligned, and we look forward to seeing how our sacred space on the Hill will be developed to provide for the needs of many in the years to come. It is reassuring to know that our SSND legacy will be remembered and our commitment to the care of all creation will be honored.”
SWMHP, a nonprofit community development corporation serving 30 counties in Southwest and South Central Minnesota, is dedicated to partnering with communities to create places for people to call home and envisions a region where everyone has access to a welcoming home and every place has a thriving and equitable community. SWMHP provides a wide range of community services including community planning, technical assistance, commercial and housing development, and homeownership education and counseling. With a robust history of impactful work in Mankato, including community and housing development and the expansion of homeownership opportunities with Partnership Community Land Trust, SWMHP is uniquely positioned to steward the transformation of the Good Counsel campus.
Vision for the Campus
Preliminary plans for the site include three key uses:
- Community Space Preservation and Revitalization – Maintaining public access to cherished amenities like the chapel and Good Counsel steps, while exploring new possibilities for arts, workforce support, education, and nonprofit collaborations.
- Lifecycle Housing – Introducing diverse housing opportunities, including cooperative living, apartments, and private homeownership options designed to complement the surrounding neighborhood.
- Healthcare and Wellness – Reviving assisted living or similar healthcare-focused programming to support the community’s needs.
SWMHP is committed to working collaboratively with existing partners on the Hill, including Loyola Catholic School and the Living Earth Center, ensuring a seamless transition and enhancement of their ongoing contributions to the community.
Engaging with the Community
Recognizing the importance of community involvement, SWMHP is eager to engage with neighbors and stakeholders throughout this process. By hosting open forums, workshops, and dialogue opportunities, SWMHP will ensure that the future of Good Counsel reflects the aspirations and values of the Mankato community.
“This project isn’t just about repurposing buildings; it’s about honoring the legacy of the School Sisters of Notre Dame, while crafting a vibrant, inclusive vision for the future,” said SWMHP Chief Executive Officer, Chad Adams. “We aim to create a space where innovation, sustainability, and community connection thrive.”
A Legacy to Preserve, A Future to Build
As SWMHP embarks on this multi-year effort, the organization remains dedicated to rehabilitating existing structures, fostering sustainability, and ensuring the project reflects the values and mission of its historical stewards. Through thoughtful planning and collaboration, the Good Counsel campus will continue to serve as a beacon of community outreach for generations to come.
To stay informed about the project or share your input, please fill out our Good Counsel Communications webform, https://bit.ly/GoodCounsel_Contact.