Elizabethtown College

Elizabethtown College, a distinguished private institution established in 1899, is built upon the enduring philosophy of its motto: "Educate for Service." This guiding principle shapes an academic experience dedicated to preparing students not just for careers, but for lives of meaningful contribution and community engagement. Under the leadership of President Elizabeth “Betty” A. Rider, the college continues its legacy of fostering impactful individuals.

The college's journey began at the close of the 19th century, founded by members of the Church of the Brethren. Visionary Jacob G. Francis championed Elizabethtown as the ideal location, strategically chosen for its proximity to vital railway connections. The inaugural classes commenced on November 13, 1900, originally held within the historic Heisey Building in downtown Elizabethtown. For its initial two decades, the college operated as an academy, laying foundational educational groundwork.

During these formative years, Elizabethtown College honed its academic focus, offering a specialized curriculum centered on four-year teaching degrees alongside high school-level courses. While evolving significantly since then, this early dedication to pedagogy and foundational learning continues to influence its commitment to comprehensive education and fostering service-minded individuals, drawing from its substantial $0.1 billion endowment to support its mission.