Local college closes leaving small town in crisis, creativity needed

Small College closes leaving small town in crisis. Seeking creative visionaries to inspire hope, collaborate with locals, and create new ways of learning and living.

On June 29, 2007, Sheldon Jackson College closed its doors, terminating its employees with less than a day's notice. The 130 year old historic campus is at risk of being demolished to make way for new development, and dedicated students, faculty and staff are searching for a new ways to teach and learn.

The College was an integral part of the community, providing the town's only recreation center, a childcare center for 40 children, a library with historic archives, and a student-run salmon hatchery. James Michener lived on campus while writing "Alaska". Last year, students took second place in Recyclemania, recycling more per capita than hundreds of schools across the country.

In Sitka, the environment is our classroom. Faculty and students teach and learn outside. Imagine kayaking around an island in the 17 million acre Tongass National Rainforest for credit!

Sheldon Jackson exemplified the notion that big things come in small packages. So many folks gave so much to this place. We aren't willing to let it go without a fight.

As an avid reader of Ode, I am often inspired by the amazing work folks are doing around the world. I believe that all that collective wisdom can bring about change here in my home town.

Ode readers and contributors are exactly the sort of folks capable of turning this loss into a success. We good folks of Sitka, AK welcome your thoughts and ideas. We're listening at www.sitkaprogress.blogspot.com

"Let us not become the evil that we deplore." - Barbara Lee