Grinnell College

Grinnell College, a distinguished private liberal arts institution founded in 1846, stands as a beacon of intellectual rigor and social responsibility. From its earliest days as Iowa College, Grinnell championed progressive ideals, advocating against slavery and saloons, a commitment to justice that remains central to its identity. Today, Grinnell is renowned for its vibrant academic environment, fostering critical thinking, and empowering students to make a tangible impact on the world. Its motto, "Veritas et Humanitas" (Truth and Humanity), perfectly encapsulates its enduring mission.

The college's history is marked by remarkable resilience and pioneering spirit. After moving from Davenport to the town of Grinnell – named for abolitionist Josiah Bushnell Grinnell – the institution officially adopted its current name in 1909. Despite facing setbacks like the Civil War, which decimated its student body, and a devastating tornado in 1882, Grinnell rebuilt with determination, consistently expanding its curriculum. It was an early innovator, offering the first Bachelor of Arts degrees west of the Mississippi in 1854 and establishing one of the nation's first political science departments.

Grinnell's academic strengths are diverse, ranging from natural sciences with laboratory work to modern languages and quantitative studies. Beyond traditional disciplines, the college became a center for the Social Gospel reform movement and pioneered unique programs like the "5th year travel-service program" long before the Peace Corps. The Grinnell student experience is characterized by a strong emphasis on individual expression, social consciousness, and a commitment to innovation, exemplified by its annual $100,000 Innovator for Social Justice Prize. Graduates have gone on to shape national policy, including influential New Deal administrators, reflecting the college's deep-seated impact on society. Recent milestones, such as becoming the first fully unionized undergraduate school in the U.S. in 2022, further underscore its progressive ethos and commitment to its community.