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College of the Atlantic

Bar Harbor, ME

private nonprofitgraduate
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About College of the Atlantic

Pioneering human ecology education in Maine, born from a unique community vision.

The College of the Atlantic stands as a truly distinctive institution, celebrated for its singular focus on the academic major of Human Ecology. This interdisciplinary approach delves into the complex relationships between humans and their natural and social environments, offering a rich and focused educational experience. Prospective students seeking an intimate, purpose-driven education where they can deeply engage with critical global issues will find College of the Atlantic's unique curriculum highly appealing.

Born from an innovative vision by Mount Desert Island residents, the College of the Atlantic was conceived in 1968 by James Gower and Les Brewer, with the aim of invigorating the island's off-season economy by establishing a year-round higher education institution. Supported by other local residents like Bernard K. "Sonny" Cough, Richard Lewis, and Robert Smith, the school was officially founded in 1969, receiving temporary approval from the Maine State Board of Education. This strong community foundation underscores the college's deeply rooted commitment to its surroundings and practical impact.

The college opened its doors to its first class of just 32 students in 1972, quickly establishing its innovative Human Ecology major – a curriculum largely crafted by co-founder James Gower himself. With a significant portion of its campus acquired for a symbolic $1 from the Oblate Fathers of Mary Immaculate Seminary, the College of the Atlantic's history is one of resourceful, community-driven development, evolving into an institution that had approximately 300 students by the 2012-13 academic year, all dedicated to understanding and improving the human condition within ecological contexts. It offers an unparalleled opportunity for students who thrive in a close-knit, environmentally conscious academic community.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Conceived in 1968 by Mount Desert Island residents to boost the local economy.
  • ✦Founded in 1969 by James Gower and Les Brewer.
  • ✦Offers only one academic major: Human Ecology.
  • ✦Began offering classes in 1972 with an inaugural class of just 32 students.
  • ✦The majority of its campus was purchased for $1 from the Oblate Fathers of Mary Immaculate Seminary.
  • ✦Curriculum for the Human Ecology major was co-created by founder James Gower.
  • ✦Enrolled approximately 300 students during the 2012–13 school year.

Timeline

1968
James Gower and Les Brewer conceive the idea for the College of the Atlantic.
1969
The school of human ecology is granted temporary approval by the Maine State Board of Education.
1969
Les Brewer and James Gower found the school, with assistance from other Mount Desert residents.
1970
Edward Kaelber becomes the first president of the college.
1972
College of the Atlantic begins offering its first classes with 32 students.
2012–13
The institution enrolls approximately 300 students.

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