Loss of Mount Saint Mary Desmond Campus a shame

Dear Editor:

A study in 2019 found that nearly one of every three older Americans lives alone. This has resulted in loneliness and isolation and can be as damaging to health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

The Desmond Campus for Adult Enrichment, part of Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh, has been a thriving educational environment, with 2,000-plus registrations per year. People were able to take classes in the beautiful home that Alice Curtis Desmond bequeathed to the Mount. The diverse offerings, the educational quality of the classes, and the social exposure provided a unique, exciting and fulfilling experience for all who attended classes and took trips, and for those who taught there.

The atmosphere at Desmond was fantastic, with adults vibrant and engaged and wanting to continue to learn. Not only were great classes offered with something for everyone, but great friendships were formed (even a marriage!) at a time of life when it can be hard to make friends.

When Jason Adsit was hired as the new president of the Mount, an article said that what made him stand out among the candidates was he seemed truly concerned about the community and how the Mount interacts with it. There was hope among Desmond students that Adult Enrichment would be appreciated and preserved. But this was not the case, and it’s a shame. Not long ago, the decision was made to close and probably sell the Desmond Campus, leaving a huge void in the community and in the lives of all who attended classes.

Joan McAdam

Wallkill