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The future of the former Marylhurst University campus in Lake Oswego will be the topic of a series of focus group meetings held by the religious organization that owns the property.

The Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) are holding the meetings to gather input as they consider possible future uses for the 50-acre campus.

The property at 17600 Pacific Highway (Oregon Route 43) is within the city of Lake Oswego, about 2 miles south of its downtown. The university closed last fall after the Board of Trustees announced previously that it could not continue. Enrollment had dwindled to 324 students.

A first round of meetings was held with SNJM, its lay affiliates, and Marylhurst alumni and former staffers. Residents and management of the adjacent Mary’s Woods continuing care community have also been consulted on the property’s future.

鈥淚n their comments, many of the participants emphasized the value (of) the site’s natural beauty, historical significance and long-standing connection to the Sisters,鈥� the organization stated in a news release. 鈥淚n addition, many talked about the importance of continuing the Sisters’ commitment of service to disadvantaged and marginalized people.鈥�

If SNJM were to make available some or all of the property for development, it would likely be highly valued for its proximity to Lake Oswego and a major highway.

SNJM is working with Ankrom Moisan Architects and R&H Construction on The Village at Mary’s Woods. The $100-million-plus project, nearly completed, includes 198 units of independent living space, 48 assisted-living residences, three retail buildings, a community center and significant site improvements.

Most of the property is zoned as Campus Institutional, although the front portion of the lot has a more flexible Campus Institutional and Office Commercial zoning, according to the city of Lake Oswego

Lake Oswego officials could not immediately be reached for comment on Wednesday.