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Kenyon College

Gambier, OH

private nonprofitbachelors

Quick Facts

“Magnanimiter Crucem Sustine (Latin)”("Valiantly bear the cross")

1824
Founded
Private liberal arts college
Type
1,753
Total Students
1,877
Undergrad
$627M
Endowment
(2024)
$69K
Tuition (In-State)
$69K
Tuition (Out-State)
$29K
Avg Net Price
31%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Graduation Rate
6-year
91%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Julie Kornfeld

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Kenyon College

Ohio's oldest private liberal arts college, set on a stunning rural campus.

Kenyon College stands as Ohio's venerable cornerstone of private higher education, established in 1824. This private liberal arts college, nestled in the picturesque rural landscape of Gambier, offers an intimate and enriching academic experience to approximately 1,800 undergraduate students. Known for its challenging curriculum and close-knit community, Kenyon provides a unique blend of historical gravitas and contemporary academic rigor, attracting students seeking a deep, engaging intellectual journey.

The college's roots trace back to Episcopal Bishop Philander Chase, who, recognizing the need for educated clergy on the Ohio frontier, secured significant donations from England to establish this institution. Incorporated in December 1824, Kenyon found its permanent home on Gambier Hill in 1825, acquiring 8,000 acres of land. Today, academically, Kenyon empowers students with choice, offering over 50 majors, minors, and concentrations, including the flexibility to design their own academic paths, fostering intellectual curiosity and personalized learning opportunities.

Life at Kenyon extends beyond the classroom into a vibrant and supportive campus environment. Its sprawling 1,000-acre campus, featuring a remarkable 700-acre nature preserve, invites exploration and reflection amidst seven distinct ecosystems. Students can immerse themselves in over 120 clubs and organizations, ensuring a rich tapestry of interests and activities. As the proud Owls, Kenyon athletes compete fiercely in NCAA Division III, embodying the college's spirit of dedication and community. This blend of rigorous academics, a beautiful natural setting, and a lively student culture creates a truly distinctive college experience for prospective students and their families.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1824, it is the oldest private institution of higher education in Ohio.
  • ✦Enrollment of approximately 1,800 undergraduate students ensures an intimate learning environment.
  • ✦Offers over 50 majors, minors, and concentrations, including self-designed majors.
  • ✦Boasts a 1,000-acre rural campus featuring a 700-acre nature preserve and seven ecosystems.
  • ✦Supports a vibrant student life with over 120 student clubs and organizations.
  • ✦The Kenyon Owls compete in NCAA Division III as part of the North Coast Athletic Conference.
  • ✦Holds an endowment of approximately $0.6 billion.

Timeline

1818
Philander Chase becomes the first Episcopal Bishop of Ohio, identifying a need for trained clergy.
1824
Kenyon College founded by Episcopal Bishop Philander Chase, securing donations from England.
1824
The college is officially incorporated in December.
1825
Philander Chase purchases 8,000 acres of land in Knox County, Ohio.
1825
Philander Chase arrives at Gambier Hill, the college's permanent location.
1975
Kenyon College is added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
🏛️
202 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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