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Centre College

Danville, KY

private nonprofitbachelors

Quick Facts

Doctrina Lux Mentis (Latin)(Learning is the Light of the Mind)

1819
Founded
Private liberal arts college
Type
1,346
Total Students
1,356
Undergrad
$399M
Endowment
(2024)
$51K
Tuition (In-State)
$51K
Tuition (Out-State)
$21K
Avg Net Price
54%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Graduation Rate
6-year
88%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification

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

About Centre College

Historic Centre College: A liberal arts powerhouse that twice hosted US Vice Presidential Debates.

Centre College, established in 1819, stands as a distinguished private liberal arts institution, renowned for its rigorous academics and a rich history deeply intertwined with national events. Located in the "centre" of Kentucky, Centre has consistently fostered intellectual growth, maintaining a strong commitment to its students and academic excellence. Its legacy includes navigating financial hardships and wars, all while developing a vibrant learning environment.

Throughout its history, Centre College has overcome numerous challenges, from its founding amidst the state's most prominent citizens to enduring occupation by both Confederate and Union troops during the Civil War. It boasts a unique connection to American history, with an alumnus, John Todd Stuart, mentoring Abraham Lincoln. This enduring spirit is reflected in its consistent growth, fueled by remarkable alumni support—setting national records for participation, demonstrating a deeply engaged and loyal community.

Today, Centre College continues to evolve, with a modern campus featuring state-of-the-art facilities like the College Centre and new residential commons, all while preserving its historic roots. With approximately 1,300 students and nearly 150 faculty members, it offers a close-knit and supportive academic experience. The college is also celebrated for its strong tradition of continuity, proudly maintaining classes even through significant historical events and severe weather, a testament to its unwavering dedication to learning. Furthermore, Centre made history by twice hosting national Vice Presidential Debates, cementing its place on the national stage as a platform for critical discourse.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1819, making it one of the oldest colleges west of the Allegheny Mountains.
  • Smallest college ever to host a national election debate (2000 & 2012 Vice Presidential Debates).
  • Achieved a national record 75.4% alumni giving participation rate in 1988, a mark that remains unbroken.
  • Boasts a $0.4 billion endowment, supporting its robust academic programs and campus development.
  • Classes rarely cancelled, even during events like the Civil War or severe weather, a point of pride among its community.
  • Enrollment of approximately 1,300 students, fostering a close-knit and engaging learning environment.

Timeline

1819
Established by the Kentucky General Assembly
1820
Classes began in Old Centre, the oldest college administration building west of the Allegheny Mountains
1862
Occupied by both Confederate and Union troops during the Civil War, classes temporarily held elsewhere
1901
Merged with Central University in Richmond, Kentucky; renamed 'Central University of Kentucky' until 1918
1930
Merged with Danville's Kentucky College for Women
1961
First African-American students admitted
1988
Set national record for alumni giving participation at 75.4%
2000
Hosted a national Vice Presidential Debate between Dick Cheney and Joe Lieberman
2009
New campus center opened
2012
Hosted a second national Vice Presidential Debate between Joe Biden and Paul Ryan
🏛️
207 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Centre College

⚖️

Law School at Centre College

Operated as a law school at Centre from 1894 until 1912, with J. Proctor Knott serving as its dean.

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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