Colby-Sawyer College

Colby-Sawyer College, rooted in the historic New London Academy founded in 1837, boasts a fascinating journey of evolution. Initially a coeducational secondary school championed by prominent New Hampshire citizens, its early years saw growth and a shift in patronage to the New Hampshire Baptists, leading to its renaming as the New London Literary and Scientific Institute in 1858. This early foundation established a commitment to education in a changing landscape, setting the stage for its future transformations.

A pivotal moment arrived in 1927 when trustees made the bold decision to transform the institution into a junior college and preparatory school exclusively for women. Renamed Colby School for Girls in 1928 and subsequently Colby Junior College for Women in 1933, it became a pioneering institution, conferring its first associate degrees in 1930. This era marked a significant dedication to women's education, shaping its identity and attracting notable figures like Eleanor Roosevelt, who visited and spoke at the college in 1941, highlighting its growing prominence.

The college continued its academic progression, with preparatory courses phased out as it focused on higher education. Its commitment to expanding opportunities culminated in 1943 when the New Hampshire General Court amended its charter, empowering Colby Junior College to grant baccalaureate programs. This strategic evolution underscores a forward-thinking approach to education, continuously adapting to meet the needs of its students and the broader academic landscape.