Cottey College

Cottey College stands as a distinguished private women's college, dedicated to cultivating 'Creators of Incredible Futures.' This unique institution is notably owned and operated by the P.E.O. Sisterhood, an international organization committed to supporting women's education, ensuring a deeply supportive and empowering environment for its students.

The college's rich legacy began in 1884 with the visionary Virginia Alice Cottey, who founded it as Vernon Seminary. Demonstrating remarkable determination, Cottey invested her savings and secured additional funds from her sisters to establish a school that would evolve into Cottey College by 1886. A pivotal moment in its history occurred in 1927 when Ms. Cottey entrusted the college to the P.E.O. Sisterhood, securing its future with the condition of a $200,000 endowment for its long-term operation.

Since 1932, Cottey College has focused exclusively on higher education, offering a comprehensive two-year program designed to provide a strong academic foundation. Prospective students and their families will find an institution steeped in tradition yet forward-looking, offering a close-knit community where women can thrive academically and personally, preparing them for diverse pathways ahead.