VALPO ART COLLECTION UPDATE
September 12, 2023

Dear Campus Community,

Today I am writing to share some changes at the Brauer. As many of you know, the University announced in February that it is exploring the potential sale of three artworks from Valpo’s 5,000+ piece collection. The proceeds of the sale will be applied directly to long-overdue renovations of two student residential facilities, creating a greatly improved and competitive college experience for some 600 students who call those residences home. 

Beginning later this month, we are anticipating certain events including a legal hearing related to the possible sale. In light of this heightened activity, and in accordance with the University’s responsibility to safeguard these works, they have been relocated to a secure off-site location out of an abundance of caution. The off-site location is not that of an art broker. No final decision about their possible sale has been made and the works will remain relocated for their protection for the foreseeable future, including as the legal and due diligence process continues.

We recognize that there are those in our community who have differing viewpoints, and who may not agree with the steps we have taken to protect these works. Even as we respect their opinions, safeguarding the art must be paramount. As I have said from the outset, our priority and obligation is to act in the best interest of our students and the entire University. This commitment drives everything we do. 

Thank you for your ongoing support and for your help in preparing Valpo for a bright future.

Sincerely,

José D. Padilla, J.D.
President