Keuka College

Nestled on one of the most beautiful locations on Keuka Lake, Keuka College was founded in 1890 by George Harvey Ball with a pioneering vision: to provide a high-level education to all deserving students, regardless of their economic background. From its very first academic building, a "firm-looking" structure of brick and stone, Keuka College embarked on a journey to empower students, with an inaugural freshman class of eighty.

After facing financial challenges that led to a temporary suspension of instruction, Keuka College made a remarkable comeback in 1921, reopening as Keuka College for Women. This revival was spearheaded by the indefatigable Arthur H. Norton, whose dedication included personally writing thousands of letters and giving numerous speeches. A pivotal factor in the college's resurgence was the generous support from the Ball brothers, founders of what would become the S&P 500 company, Ball Corporation. They expressed their gratitude to their uncle, George Harvey Ball, by donating land and funds, leading to the renaming of the first academic building to Ball Hall.

Keuka College distinguished itself through an early emphasis on experiential learning, a cornerstone of its academic strength. This was particularly evident in its nursing program, which expanded significantly during World War II. Driven by a personal correspondence between Keuka President J. Hillis Miller and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, the college provided professionally trained nurses for the war effort, seamlessly blending rigorous academic study with crucial clinical work at the hospital. This innovative approach ensures that Keuka students are not just learners, but active participants in their fields, prepared for real-world impact.