Lewis & Clark College

Lewis & Clark College is a distinguished private liberal arts institution, nestled amidst the natural beauty of Portland, Oregon. Guided by its inspiring motto, "Explorare, Discere, Sociare" (Explore, Learn, Connect), the college is dedicated to cultivating a spirit of discovery, intellectual curiosity, and strong community bonds among its students. Under the leadership of President Robin Holmes-Sullivan, it continues its legacy of providing a comprehensive and engaging educational experience.

The college's rich history began long before it became Lewis & Clark. Founded in 1867 as Albany College (and even earlier as Albany Academy in 1858), it proudly stands as one of Oregon's pioneer colleges, notably championing co-education from its very first graduating class in 1873. The institution embarked on a significant journey, eventually relocating to Portland and, in 1942, acquiring the magnificent "Fir Acres" estate, which became its permanent home and inspired its current, iconic name.

Today, Lewis & Clark College offers an vibrant student experience within its intimate community of 3,462 students. The college recently demonstrated its commitment to student voice and tradition, undergoing a comprehensive process to select a new mascot. In 2026, after a wide-reaching survey garnering 6.4k votes from students, alumni, and employees, the River Otter was enthusiastically adopted, symbolizing the college's connection to its Pacific Northwest environment and its dynamic spirit.