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DePauw University

Greencastle, IN

private nonprofitbachelors

Quick Facts

Wikipedia
1,804
Total Students
$57K
Tuition (In-State)
$57K
Tuition (Out-State)
$25K
Avg Net Price
54%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Graduation Rate
6-year
89%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification

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

About DePauw University

DePauw: Where history, innovation, and a strong liberal arts tradition shape tomorrow's leaders.

DePauw University, a distinguished private liberal arts college nestled in Greencastle, Indiana, offers an enriching experience where a vibrant history meets modern innovation. Founded in 1837 as Indiana Asbury College, it quickly established itself on "the most liberal principles," welcoming students from all denominations and backgrounds. This commitment to an inclusive and broad-based education remains a cornerstone of DePauw's identity today, fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking in its close-knit academic community.

DePauw's historical significance is profound. It was a pioneer in coeducation, admitting women in 1867, and in 1870, became the birthplace of Kappa Alpha Theta, the world's first Greek-letter sorority. The university also boasts the two longest continually running fraternity chapters globally, underscoring its deep-rooted tradition in student life. Furthermore, it's the proud home of the Society of Professional Journalists, founded in 1909, an organization dedicated to upholding journalistic integrity and freedom.

Today, DePauw continues its legacy of leadership and impactful contributions. With a robust endowment of over $930 million and a history of significant philanthropic support, including recent record-breaking gifts, the university is well-positioned to offer exceptional resources. Students benefit from a residential campus spanning 655 acres, including a dedicated nature park, providing ample opportunities for both academic pursuit and personal growth within a supportive small-town environment. The appointment of Lori S. White as its first woman and African American president in 2020 further highlights DePauw's ongoing commitment to diversity and forward-thinking leadership.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1837 as Indiana Asbury College, evolving into a leading private liberal arts institution.
  • Boasts a substantial $932.6 million endowment as of 2024, supported by a history of significant donations, including a recent $200 million gift.
  • Pioneering history includes admitting women in 1867 and founding Kappa Alpha Theta, the world's first Greek-letter sorority, in 1870.
  • Home to the Society of Professional Journalists (originally Sigma Delta Chi), founded by DePauw students in 1909.
  • Led by Lori S. White, the university's first woman and African American president, appointed in 2020.
  • A close-knit community of 1,819 students (Fall 2023) on a beautiful 655-acre campus in Greencastle, Indiana.

Timeline

1837
Founded as Indiana Asbury College.
1867
Began admitting women.
1870
Kappa Alpha Theta, the world's first Greek-letter sorority, was founded.
1884
Name changed to DePauw University in honor of Washington C. DePauw.
1884
The School of Music was established.
1909
Sigma Delta Chi (now Society of Professional Journalists) was founded by student journalists.
Participated in the V-12 Navy College Training Program during World War II.
2002
Received a $128 million gift, the largest-ever to a liberal arts college at the time.
2020
Lori S. White became the 21st President, the first woman and African American to hold the position.
2024
Received a $200 million gift, combining an anonymous donation and matching funds.

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within DePauw University

🏫

School of Music

Established in 1884 through a substantial donation from Washington C. DePauw.

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