Centre College

Centre College, established in 1819, is a distinguished private liberal arts institution nestled in the geographic "centre" of Kentucky. Renowned for its vibrant academic community and a history steeped in American heritage, Centre offers an engaging educational experience. It has garnered national attention as the smallest college ever to host not one, but two Vice Presidential Debates (in 2000 and 2012), showcasing its unique capacity for significant national dialogue and its impressive logistical capabilities.

Academically, Centre College prides itself on a rigorous liberal arts curriculum supported by approximately 150 dedicated faculty members serving around 1,300 students. The college's history is marked by resilience, navigating financial hardships, disputes, and even Civil War occupation of Old Centre, yet maintaining a steadfast commitment to education—classes were rarely cancelled, a point of enduring pride. This spirit of perseverance extends to its alumni, who hold a national record for participation in giving, fueling continuous campus growth and modernization, including recent state-of-the-art academic and residential facilities.

Prospective students and families will discover a college that values tradition while embracing the future. From its historic Old Centre building, the oldest college administration building west of the Allegheny Mountains, to its modern facilities like the Norton Center for the Arts and Brockman Residential Commons, Centre provides a dynamic environment for learning and personal growth. The institution's enduring motto, "Doctrina Lux Mentis" (Knowledge is the Light of the Mind), perfectly encapsulates its dedication to fostering enlightened and engaged citizens.