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Catawba College

Salisbury, NC

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

“Sit Lux”

1851
Founded
Private college
Type
1,127
Total Students
1,153
Undergrad
88
Graduate
$33K
Tuition (In-State)
$33K
Tuition (Out-State)
$18K
Avg Net Price
78%
Acceptance Rate
52%
Graduation Rate
6-year
73%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: David Nelson

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Catawba College

Catawba College: A historic institution fostering modern business leaders with a vibrant community.

Step into a legacy of resilience and innovation at Catawba College, a private institution founded in 1851. From its humble beginnings rooted in the Reformed Church to its current dynamic campus in Salisbury, Catawba has consistently adapted and thrived. It’s a place where history meets modern ambition, creating a supportive environment for students to grow both personally and professionally.

After facing the profound challenges of the Civil War, during which it temporarily operated as an academy, Catawba College re-emerged with renewed vigor, becoming coeducational in 1890. Its pivotal move to Salisbury in 1925 marked a new era of expansion and opportunity. Today, affiliated with the United Church of Christ, the college continues its tradition of nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared for the complexities of the contemporary world.

Academically, Catawba shines, particularly through its esteemed Ketner School of Business. Named after Ralph W. Ketner, the visionary co-founder of Food Lion, the school offers a robust curriculum spanning Accounting, Economics and Finance, Entrepreneurship, Integrated Marketing Communication, and various Business Administration concentrations. This focus ensures students gain practical, relevant skills that employers seek.

Beyond traditional coursework, the Ketner School of Business boasts innovative resources like the Center for Entrepreneurship and Experimental Development (CEED) and the Institute of Business and Accounting. These centers provide invaluable hands-on experience, mentorship, and real-world insights, empowering students to transform ideas into impact and confidently launch their careers.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1851, boasting a rich history of over 170 years.
  • ✦A vibrant student body of 1,241, fostering a close-knit community.
  • ✦Home to the distinguished Ketner School of Business, named after Food Lion co-founder Ralph W. Ketner.
  • ✦Offers comprehensive business programs including Accounting, Entrepreneurship, and Integrated Marketing Communication.
  • ✦Features the Center for Entrepreneurship and Experimental Development (CEED) for hands-on innovation.
  • ✦Affiliated with the United Church of Christ, building on a strong historical foundation.
  • ✦Motto: "Sit Lux" (Let There Be Light).

Timeline

1851
Founded by the North Carolina Classis of the Reformed Church in the United States.
1865
Operated as Catawba High School during and after the Civil War.
1885
Resumed operations under its original charter as Catawba College.
1890
Became coeducational, admitting women to the student body.
1923
Closed its original campus in Newton due to post-war struggles.
1925
Re-opened in Salisbury, establishing its modern campus.
🏛️
175 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Catawba College

💼

Ketner School of Business

Named after Ralph W. Ketner, co-founder of Food Lion, this school offers a diverse curriculum in Accounting, Economics and Finance, Entrepreneurship, Integrated Marketing Communication, Communication Arts, and Business Administration with various concentrations. It features the Center for Entrepreneurship and Experimental Development (CEED) and the Institute of Business and Accounting, providing practical experience and fostering innovation.

Leadership

David Nelson
President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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