DePauw University

Nestled in Greencastle, Indiana, DePauw University stands as a distinguished private liberal arts college, a beacon of learning since its founding in 1837 as Indiana Asbury College. Guided by its historical Methodist heritage, the university was established to be an ecumenical institution, welcoming all denominations and serving the broader community. Today, DePauw fosters a close-knit, vibrant residential campus experience for its approximately 1,800 students, blending rigorous academics with a rich social environment across its 655-acre campus, conveniently located just 45 miles west of Indianapolis.

DePauw boasts a remarkable history marked by significant milestones. It was among the early institutions to open its doors to women in 1867 and was renamed in 1884 to honor Washington C. DePauw, whose substantial donations profoundly shaped its future. The university continues to attract extraordinary support, exemplified by the $200 million gift received in 2024, reinforcing its strong financial foundation and commitment to future generations of students. This enduring generosity underscores DePauw's dedication to providing a high-quality liberal arts education.

The university's pioneering spirit is evident in its legacy of "firsts." It is the birthplace of Kappa Alpha Theta, the world's first Greek-letter sorority, founded in 1870, and proudly hosts the two longest continually running fraternity chapters globally. DePauw also played a pivotal role in the world of journalism, being the founding home of the Society of Professional Journalists (originally Sigma Delta Chi), an organization dedicated to fostering ethical journalism and protecting the freedom of the press. Under the leadership of President Lori White, the first woman and African American to serve in the role, DePauw continues to champion a forward-thinking approach while honoring its deep historical roots.