(AP)— A college in Maine that focuses on environmental studies and sustainability said it plans to permanently transition to a hybrid model of in-person and online learning.

Unity College announced the move by its board of trustees on Monday. The college said the board also authorized leadership to consider selling the main campus in Unity.

College president Melik Peter Khoury said the change is “a major stride toward Unity College’s mission to provide a more diverse, just, equitable, and sustainable education.” The college said the new model will allow students to continue their education during unforeseen events, such as the coronavirus pandemic.

Khoury said the financial impact of the pandemic expedited the plan to move to a hybrid model, but he added the change is “not simply a reaction to the pandemic.” He said eliminating the need for a centralized campus will allow the college to hold in-person and online courses in multiple locations.