Elizabethtown College

Nestled in Pennsylvania, Elizabethtown College stands as a distinguished private institution guided by its enduring motto: "Educate for Service." For over a century, this college has fostered an environment where students are prepared not just for careers, but for lives of purpose and contribution. Under the leadership of President Elizabeth “Betty” A. Rider, Elizabethtown continues to build on its rich heritage while looking forward to innovative educational approaches.

The college's origins trace back to a visionary initiative in 1899 by members of the Church of the Brethren, specifically spurred by Jacob G. Francis. His strong advocacy for Elizabethtown, strategically chosen for its proximity to vital railway lines, laid the groundwork for the institution. This foundational decision ensured accessibility and connectivity, vital for a burgeoning educational center at the turn of the 20th century.

The academic journey at Elizabethtown College officially commenced on November 13, 1900, with the first classes taking place in the Heisey Building in downtown Elizabethtown. During its formative two decades, the college operated primarily as an academy. Its curriculum was initially focused, offering four-year teaching degrees and high school-level courses, directly reflecting its mission to serve the educational needs of its community and prepare individuals for practical, impactful service.