Lewis & Clark College

Lewis & Clark College stands as a distinctive private liberal arts institution, nestled in the vibrant city of Portland, Oregon. With a rich legacy stretching back to the mid-19th century, the college is celebrated for its commitment to a holistic educational experience that encourages exploration, learning, and community engagement, aptly captured in its motto: "Explorare, Discere, Sociare." It offers a dynamic environment where intellectual curiosity is fostered, preparing students to be thoughtful and engaged citizens.

The college's intriguing history began in 1858 as Albany Academy, a Presbyterian institution in Oregon's Willamette Valley. Evolving steadily, it transformed into Albany College by its official founding in 1867 and made a pioneering move by being co-educational from its very first graduating class in 1873. Its journey culminated in 1942 with a strategic relocation to Portland's historic "Fir Acres" estate and a renaming to Lewis & Clark College, marking a new chapter for the institution in a stunning natural setting.

Academically, Lewis & Clark College provides a rigorous liberal arts curriculum designed to broaden perspectives and develop critical thinking skills across a wide range of disciplines. The student experience is further enriched by a highly engaged community, as evidenced by the recent, widely participated decision to adopt the River Otter as the college's new mascot – a choice driven by extensive student, alumni, and employee feedback. This spirit of collective participation underscores a campus culture that values inclusivity and shared identity.

With a substantial endowment of $0.3 billion, Lewis & Clark College continues to invest in its programs, faculty, and facilities, ensuring a high-quality educational journey for its 3,462 students. It remains dedicated to its foundational principles while embracing modernity, preparing its graduates to navigate and contribute meaningfully to a complex world.