Broadview at Purchase College Celebrates First Anniversary

University Retirement Community on Purchase College campus is a reality after 20 years

Purchase, New York – (December, 2024) – It took more than 20 years for the vision of a senior retirement community on the campus of Purchase College to become a reality. But in one year, it has blossomed into a successful senior community, realizing the vision of its founders to foster intergenerational learning.

Broadview at Purchase College held its Founders Day event on December 8 to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the first residents to move in.

“It’s incredible how this community has coalesced in one short year and how it is even better than imagined,’’ said Broadview Executive Director Ashley Wade. “Just one year ago the first residents moved in and today we have a vibrant community of people learning from each other and from students on campus. It is truly a testament to intergenerational learning.’’

Approximately 180 residents, staff, and members of the Purchase Senior Learning Community, Inc. board gathered in the learning commons to commemorate this special milestone.

Marketing Director Amy Post described the space as “a winter wonderland, adorned with shimmering silver, white accents, and elegant pine cone details.”

“Broadview’s outstanding culinary team served a delicious and elegant brunch that was enjoyed by all. Guests reflected on cherished moments through community photos on display, while message boards provided an opportunity to express gratitude and share heartfelt sentiments. It was a truly memorable celebration, filled with warmth, connection, and appreciation for the vibrant community we have built together,’’ said Post.

The concept of a senior living community on the campus had been under discussion since 2003, but it wasn’t realized until 2011 when legislation was signed by Governor Andrew Cuomo allowing Purchase College to lease about 40 acres of land to create the community. Construction was completed in May of 2023 and the first residents moved in in December.

Set on 40 acres with walking and exercise trails, Broadview at Purchase College offers a full continuum of services including Independent Living, Assisted Living, Enhanced Assisted Living, and Memory Care. The community has 174 senior residential apartments, 20 percent of which are set aside for residents who meet certain median income requirements.

Broadview offers a wealth of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, movie theatre, spa and salon, dining venues, and on-site health center, among other features.  There is a flexible dining program with chef-prepared meals, weekly housekeeping and concierge service.

Broadview residents also enjoy the many amenities of the college including the renowned Neuberger Museum of Art, the Performing Arts Center, the academic and athletic facilities, and the park-like campus as well as formal and informal programming and collaborative opportunities designed to promote intergenerational engagement with students.

Kate Abate, Residential Director and Director of Intergenerational Learning, pointed to a host of programs offered to residents weekly, including musical performances and classes, many of them taught by students and residents themselves. Residents also give back to their Purchase hosts by running mentorship programs in pre-medicine, broadcast journalism, pre-law, and media studies. Broadview also supported 273 scholarships this year, and contributes over $2 million annually to enrich opportunities for students and faculty.