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Lewis & Clark College

Portland, OR

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

“Explorare, Discere, Sociare”(To explore, to learn, to work together)

1867
Founded
Private liberal arts college
Type
2,167
Total Students
2,139
Undergrad
1,323
Graduate
$328M
Endowment
(2025)
$62K
Tuition (In-State)
$62K
Tuition (Out-State)
$36K
Avg Net Price
75%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Graduation Rate
6-year
82%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification

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

About Lewis & Clark College

Portland's premier liberal arts college, fostering exploration and community since 1867.

Nestled on a historic estate in beautiful Portland, Lewis & Clark College stands as a distinguished private liberal arts institution committed to intellectual exploration and community engagement. Guided by its motto, "Explorare, Discere, Sociare" (Explore, Learn, Connect), the college prides itself on a vibrant academic environment where students are encouraged to pursue their passions and contribute to a close-knit campus culture.

Lewis & Clark College boasts a rich and pioneering history. Founded in 1867 as Albany College, it emerged from the Presbyterian church's Albany Academy, established nearly a decade earlier. Uniquely, the institution has been co-educational since its very first graduating class in 1873, a testament to its long-standing commitment to inclusivity. The college underwent a significant transformation, relocating entirely to Portland in 1939 and subsequently acquiring the magnificent Lloyd Frank "Fir Acres" estate in 1942, at which point it officially became Lewis & Clark College.

Today, Lewis & Clark is known for its engaging student experience, supported by a substantial endowment and a dedicated community. The recent adoption of the River Otter as the college's new mascot, chosen through an extensive vote involving students, alumni, and employees, highlights the collaborative spirit and pride within the institution. Prospective students and their families will find a college that blends a deep historical foundation with a forward-looking approach to education, all set against the stunning backdrop of Portland, Oregon.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1867, Lewis & Clark College has a rich heritage rooted in the Willamette Valley.
  • ✦A distinguished private liberal arts college located on the scenic Fir Acres estate in Portland, Oregon.
  • ✦A pioneer in inclusivity, the college has been co-educational since its first graduating class in 1873.
  • ✦Supported by a substantial $0.3 billion endowment, ensuring resources for future generations of students.
  • ✦Home to 3,462 students, fostering a vibrant and engaged community.
  • ✦Guided by its inspiring motto: 'Explorare, Discere, Sociare'.
  • ✦Recently embraced the River Otter as its new mascot, chosen through a campus-wide community vote involving 6,400 participants.

Timeline

1858
Presbyterian church incorporated "Albany Academy."
1866
Changed name to the "Albany Collegiate Institution."
1867
Reincorporated as "Albany College," establishing the official founding date.
1873
Graduated its first co-educational class.
1934
Established a junior college in Portland.
1939
The entire school relocated to Portland.
1942
Acquired the "Fir Acres" estate and was renamed Lewis & Clark College.
2024
Initiated a search for a new college mascot.
2026
Officially changed its mascot to the River Otter.
🏛️
159 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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