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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: Historic roots, modern vision for student success since 1851.

Catawba College, a private institution founded in 1851, stands as a beacon of learning with its enduring motto, "Sit Lux" (Let there be light). Nestled in Salisbury, North Carolina, Catawba offers an intimate academic environment with a student body of 1241, fostering a close-knit community where individual growth is paramount. Affiliated with the United Church of Christ, the college blends its rich heritage with a forward-thinking approach to education, preparing students for impactful careers and lives.

The college's journey began with the North Carolina Classis of the Reformed Church, enduring the challenges of the Civil War which saw it operate as an academy before re-establishing itself as Catawba College in 1885. A pivotal moment came in 1890 when it embraced coeducation, and later, in 1925, it found its vibrant new home in Salisbury. This history of resilience and adaptation underscores Catawba's commitment to providing an accessible and evolving educational experience.

Academically, Catawba shines, particularly through its esteemed Ketner School of Business. Named after Ralph W. Ketner, co-founder and former CEO of Food Lion, the school offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students for the complexities of the modern business world. Prospective students can delve into diverse areas such as Accounting, Economics and Finance, Entrepreneurship, Integrated Marketing Communication, and Business Administration with various concentrations. The school further enhances learning through innovative resources like the Center for Entrepreneurship and Experimental Development (CEED) and the Institute of Business and Accounting, providing invaluable hands-on experience and professional development opportunities.

Beyond the classroom, Catawba encourages a holistic student experience, blending rigorous academics with opportunities for leadership, community engagement, and personal discovery. The focus on practical skills, entrepreneurial spirit, and strong communication, particularly within the Ketner School of Business, ensures graduates are well-prepared to make significant contributions in their chosen fields, embodying the college's legacy of excellence and innovation.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1851 by the North Carolina Classis of the Reformed Church.
  • A private college with a student body of 1241, offering a personalized academic experience.
  • The Ketner School of Business is named after Ralph W. Ketner, co-founder and former CEO of Food Lion.
  • Offers diverse business concentrations including Accounting, Economics, Entrepreneurship, and International Business.
  • Home to the Center for Entrepreneurship and Experimental Development (CEED) and the Institute of Business and Accounting.
  • Became coeducational in 1890, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to inclusive education.
  • Current affiliation with the United Church of Christ, a successor to its founding church.

Timeline

1851
Founded by the North Carolina Classis of the Reformed Church in the United States.
1865
Operated as Catawba High School during the Civil War era.
1885
Resumed operations under its original charter as Catawba College.
1890
Became coeducational, admitting women to the student body.
1923
Closed its campus in Newton.
1925
Re-opened its campus in Salisbury.
🏛️
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. Offers diverse curricula in Accounting, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Integrated Marketing Communication, and Business Administration with various concentrations. Houses the Center for Entrepreneurship and Experimental Development (CEED) and the Institute of Business and Accounting.

Leadership

David Nelson
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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