Galvan Donates Dozens of Hudson Properties to Bard

In a move that could reshape Hudson’s future, the Galvan Foundation, the city’s largest private property owner, is donating dozens of properties to Bard College, a private liberal arts institution known for its arts and humanities programs. The donation, confirmed Monday, comes as Bard works to raise $500 million to secure a matching gift from hedge fund investor George Soros.

The donated properties, which include a mix of residential homes, commercial buildings, and public-use spaces, are part of Galvan’s nonprofit portfolio. While exact details remain private, Bard officials confirmed that “nearly all” of Galvan’s Columbia County holdings will be transferred. The college is now in the process of appraising the properties to determine their contribution toward the $500 million campaign. According to Bard, there are no plans to sell the properties, nor to use them for student housing.

Galvan’s influence in Hudson is significant. Public records show the organization owns more than 60 properties in the city, including at least 40 held by the Galvan Initiatives Foundation, its nonprofit division. Among its holdings are residential units, including one rented by Mayor Kamal Johnson, and others leased to organizations like Camphill Hudson, which supports people with developmental disabilities. Galvan also owns properties used by the local Salvation Army, the public library, and senior center, and the offices of the city’s newspaper.

Jennifer Strodl, assistant director of communications at Bard, noted that the college aims to respect the current uses and tenants of the buildings “where possible.” Though Bard has not outlined any specific plans for the properties, the institution views the donation as a long-term investment in the region’s stability and growth.

The name “Galvan” is derived from founders T. Eric Galloway and the late Henry van Ameringen. Over the past 15 years, the organization has had a strong, often controversial presence in Hudson’s politics and development. Galvan has both faced legal disputes and earned praise for contributions like saving the city’s annual Winter Walk festival.

Incoming mayoral candidate Joe Ferris, who recently defeated incumbent Mayor Johnson in the Democratic primary, described the donation as “the opportunity for a new chapter in Hudson.” He emphasized the potential of partnering with an institution like Bard that can work “in good faith” with the community.

Dan Kent, Vice President of the Galvan Initiatives Foundation, echoed that sentiment, stating the donation ensures the foundation’s mission will continue well into the future under Bard’s stewardship.

As Bard approaches its $500 million goal, having already raised $440 million, the college’s expanding role in Hudson will be closely watched. For a city shaped in many ways by Galvan, this change signals the start of something new.