Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago Announces Sale of Remaining Residential Properties in Hyde Park
July 17, 2025
CHICAGO, IL — As part of its ongoing commitment to financial sustainability and faithful innovation in theological education, the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC) is preparing to sell its remaining three residential buildings in the Hyde Park neighborhood.
The decision—approved by LSTC’s Board of Directors in May 2025—builds on the seminary’s 2023 relocation to a newly renovated, shared ecumenical campus at 5416 S. Cornell Avenue. That move significantly reduced operational costs and positioned LSTC to better support hybrid and online learning models, while fostering collaboration and modernizing the learning environment.
“We’re reimagining our use of space to remain faithful to our mission and responsive to the future of theological education,” said the Rev. Dr. Shauna Hannan, President of LSTC.
“This decision reflects thoughtful stewardship by the Board and a clear commitment to LSTC’s future,” added Larry Tietjen, Chair of the Board’s Housing Task Force. “By aligning our physical footprint with today’s educational realities, we are ensuring that the seminary remains financially sound and mission-focused for generations to come.”
Throughout this process, LSTC remains fully committed to its student residents. A condition of any sale will be that new owners honor existing housing agreements to ensure a smooth and stable experience for all current occupants. “We are committed to providing housing for students and taking steps to inform and support students throughout this process,” said President Hannan.
LSTC’s transition mirrors broader trends in graduate theological education, where residential housing is no longer central to student life. Across the country, other seminaries are making similar decisions: Luther Seminary in St. Paul—the largest in the ELCA—recently announced the sale of its entire campus, and Gettysburg Seminary has released most of its residential properties to make way for new community-focused initiatives.
The residential portfolio is being marketed by real estate firm Avison Young, with public listing activity beginning this week.
About the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago
The Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC) is a leading institution of theological education and a seminary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Located in the heart of Chicago, LSTC forms visionary leaders who are rooted in the gospel, committed to academic excellence, and prepared to serve in diverse ministry contexts around the world. Through its degree programs, certificate offerings, and innovative initiatives like Project Starling, LSTC equips students for transformative ministry, public leadership, and lifelong faith formation. Learn more at www.lstc.edu