Good Shepherd Sisters grant University of New England option to buy convent

The Good Shepherd Sisters of Québec and the University of New England have announced an agreement to transfer the ownership of the St. Joseph’s convent at 409 Pool St., Biddeford to UNE.

The agreement grants UNE the option to purchase both the convent building and the surrounding land, following the acquisition of an initial 4-acre parcel this past March, according to a press release from UNE .

Discussions began in 2017 when The Sisters began planning for the time they would vacate the property, according to the press release.

“When we recognized we could no longer sustain the property with our current population, we knew UNE would be the ideal choice,” said Sister Terry Gauvin of the Good Shepherd Sisters of Québec in a written statement. “Their commitment to both inclusive, innovative education and preservation of Biddeford’s local history aligns perfectly with our mission.”

The Good Shepherd Sisters declined further comment beyond the press release.

“I am delighted that UNE and The Sisters achieved this outcome, which was based on trust and mutual respect and provides both organizations tremendous opportunities,” said Jim Irwin, CPA, senior vice president of Finance and Administration at UNE in a written statement. “We are honored to be entrusted with this property and look forward to ensuring its care for future generations.”

Irwin responded to a press inquiry regarding what the University plans to do with the property.

“Given the convent’s current function, the space is ideal for student housing, study spaces, and common gathering areas,” he said in an email statement.

Saco Bay News Publisher Liz Gotthelf can be reached at newsdesk@sacobaynews.com.