Lafayette College

Easton, PA

private nonprofitbachelors

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Quick Facts

2,746

Total Students

$63K

Tuition (In-State)

$63K

Tuition (Out-State)

$32K

Avg Net Price

31%

Acceptance Rate

88%

Graduation Rate

6-year

92%

Retention Rate

Baccalaureate Colleges

Classification

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

About Lafayette College

Lafayette: A premier liberal arts and engineering college dedicated to research and D1 athletics.

Lafayette College, a distinguished private liberal arts institution nestled in Easton, Pennsylvania, offers an exceptional educational journey for aspiring students. Renowned for its unique blend of robust programs in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering, Lafayette fosters an environment where intellectual curiosity thrives. With a strong emphasis on small class sizes and hands-on undergraduate research, students are empowered to delve deep into their chosen fields, guided by dedicated faculty.

Founded in 1826 by forward-thinking citizens of Easton and named in honor of the Marquis de Lafayette, a hero of the American Revolution, the college carries a rich legacy. Its early days even saw an innovative mission to educate free African Americans for missionary work in Liberia. This enduring spirit of pioneering thought and commitment to service continues to shape Lafayette's vibrant community and its dedication to educating well-rounded global citizens.

Beyond academics, Lafayette boasts a spirited student experience, competing as the Leopards in NCAA Division I athletics within the Patriot League. The picturesque campus, perched on College Hill overlooking the Delaware River, provides a stunning backdrop for both academic pursuits and personal growth. Supported by an impressive endowment of over $1.125 billion, Lafayette ensures abundant resources and opportunities, preparing graduates not just for careers, but for lives of impact and leadership.

Key Highlights

✦Established in 1826 and named after the Marquis de Lafayette, a hero of the American Revolution.
✦A private liberal arts college offering comprehensive programs in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering.
✦Boasts an impressive endowment of over $1.125 billion as of 2024, providing substantial resources for student success.
✦Serves approximately 2,700 undergraduate students with a strong focus on small class sizes and undergraduate research.
✦Competes in NCAA Division I athletics as the Leopards, a proud member of the Patriot League.
✦Pioneered by electing its first female president, Alison Byerly, who took office in 2013.
✦Strategically located in Easton, Pennsylvania, on a scenic campus overlooking the Delaware River, approximately 70 miles west of New York City.

Timeline

1824

Easton residents, led by James Madison Porter, met to discuss founding a college.

1826

College chartered by Pennsylvania Governor John Andrew Shulze; named after Marquis de Lafayette.

1829

Lafayette College opened its doors, initially with four students.

1832

Classes officially began with 43 students in a rented farmhouse.

1839

College acquired property on what is now known as "College Hill".

1849

Lafayette College became formally affiliated with the Presbyterian Church.

1857

First Greek-letter fraternities were secretly established at the college.

2013

Alison Byerly was announced as Lafayette's 17th and first female president.

2021

Nicole Hurd succeeded Byerly as president of the college.

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