The academic buildings are empty of people but not of old furniture at Goddard College following its closure in 2024. The once-thriving experimental school cited "looming" financial insolvency when it announced it was shutting down. Steve Osemwenkhae/Federal Reserve Bank of Boston
The former Goddard College campus has been purchased by developer Mike Davidson’s company, Ledgeworks. He’s planning new housing – an acute need in this flood-stricken area – as well as various arts and cultural offerings. Steve Osemwenkhae/Federal Reserve Bank of Boston
The library at the former Goddard College was once a resource for playwright David Mamet and singer Trey Anastasio, two of the school's best-known alumni. Goddard closed in 2024 after years of declining enrollment and financial struggles. Steve Osemwenkhae/Federal Reserve Bank of Boston
Ben Koenig came to Goddard College in Plainfield, Vermont, as a student in 1968, and he ended up making a life there. The New York City native loved the vibrant community and cultural scene that developed around the school, which closed in 2024. Steve Osemwenkhae/Federal Reserve Bank of Boston
Koenig has run The Country Bookshop in Plainfield since 1974. He says it was no secret around town that the school was struggling financially before it closed in 2024. But he says the new plans for the former campus have brought a fresh energy and life to Plainfield. Steve Osemwenkhae/Federal Reserve Bank of Boston