Ithaca College

Ithaca College, rooted in a rich legacy of musical excellence, has blossomed into a dynamic private institution where students pursue a wide array of passions. With a motto of "Commitment to Excellence," it fosters an environment where creativity, critical thinking, and a diverse curriculum prepare students for impactful careers and lives. Nestled in the vibrant city of Ithaca, the college offers a unique blend of tight-knit community and broad academic opportunity.

The story of Ithaca College began modestly in 1892 as the Ithaca Conservatory of Music. Visionary violin teacher William Grant Egbert rented four rooms and welcomed just eight students, laying the foundation for what would become a cornerstone of higher education. This early dedication to the arts set the stage for its remarkable growth.

For nearly seven decades, the institution expanded its offerings dramatically beyond music, incorporating studies in elocution, dance, physical education, speech correction, radio, business, and a robust liberal arts curriculum. This comprehensive expansion led to its rechartering as a private college under its current name, Ithaca College, in 1931, solidifying its commitment to a holistic educational experience. The original Boardman House, its founding site, even gained recognition on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971, marking its historical significance.