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Columbia College - Redstone Arsenal

Redstone Arsenal, AL

private nonprofit

Quick Facts

Magnanimiter Crucem Sustine (Latin)(Valiantly bear the cross)

Wikipedia
1851
Founded
Private college
Type
6,046
Total Students
$155M
Endowment
(2025)
$8K
Tuition (In-State)
$8K
Tuition (Out-State)
President: Toby Arquette

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

About Columbia College - Redstone Arsenal

Experience a legacy of pioneering education at Columbia College - Redstone Arsenal.

For students seeking a rich academic tradition and a supportive learning environment, Columbia College - Redstone Arsenal offers a unique opportunity. As a vital part of the larger Columbia College system, this campus benefits from a legacy that began with pioneering educational innovation, providing a pathway for modern learners.

The roots of Columbia College stretch back to 1851, when it was chartered as the Christian Female College – a landmark achievement as the first women's college west of the Mississippi River chartered by a state legislature. Born out of a strong community desire for female education, especially before the University of Missouri admitted women, its early days were marked by a rigorous curriculum. Students in 1851 experienced a structured daily routine, blending academic subjects like arithmetic and philosophy with daily compositions and Bible lectures, all aimed at comprehensive intellectual and moral development.

Today, Columbia College, a private institution, continues to uphold its commitment to academic excellence under the leadership of President Toby Arquette. With a significant student body of 6,046 across its various locations and an endowment of $0.2 billion, the institution provides a robust educational experience. While the specific offerings of the Redstone Arsenal campus cater to contemporary learners, they are built upon this venerable foundation, providing an engaging and informative path for prospective students and their families.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1851 as the first women's college west of the Mississippi River to be chartered by a state legislature.
  • Began as Christian Female College, a trailblazer in higher education for women.
  • Serves a robust student population of 6,046 (institution-wide).
  • Operates as a private college with a rich history and a forward-looking approach.
  • Guided by the Latin motto: "Magnanimiter Crucem Sustine."
  • Supported by a significant endowment of $0.2 billion.

Timeline

1851
Christian Female College received its charter, becoming the first women's college west of the Mississippi River chartered by a state legislature.
1852
The college purchased the estate of Dr. James Bennett and formally dedicated it as the Christian College campus.
1856
Enrollment grew to 150 students, including 85 boarders, reflecting early success and demand.
🏛️
175 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

via Wikipedia
Toby Arquette
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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