Lewis-Clark State College

Lewiston, ID

publicgraduate

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Quick Facts

1893

Founded

Public college

Type

2,277

Total Students

$7K

Tuition (In-State)

$21K

Tuition (Out-State)

$13K

Avg Net Price

90%

Acceptance Rate

45%

Graduation Rate

6-year

64%

Retention Rate

Baccalaureate Colleges

Classification

President: Cynthia Pemberton

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

About Lewis-Clark State College

From historic normal school to a dynamic state college, evolving for Idaho's future.

Lewis-Clark State College, soon to be Lewis-Clark State University, stands as a testament to educational resilience and adaptability in Idaho. From its founding in 1893 as the Lewiston State Normal School, LCSC has consistently evolved to meet the state's most pressing needs, initially focusing on equipping a new generation of teachers with practical, hands-on training and vocational skills. This legacy of practical education continues to shape its programs today, preparing students for real-world success.

Throughout its extensive history, LCSC has navigated significant challenges, including a devastating fire in 1917 and multiple legislative efforts to close its doors. Yet, it persevered, playing a vital role during World War II by expanding its nurse-training program and contributing to the Navy Air School. This spirit of service and determination underscores the institution's deep commitment to its community and its students.

The college's journey reflects a broader evolution in American education. Transitioning from a two-year normal school to a four-year teachers college in 1943, and eventually becoming an independent, comprehensive state college in 1971—the last normal school in the nation to make this transformation—LCSC has consistently broadened its academic offerings. This expansion culminates in its upcoming rebranding as Lewis-Clark State University in April 2025, a move that formally recognizes its diverse range of bachelor's and associate degree programs and its forward-looking vision for higher education in the region.

Key Highlights

✦Established in 1893 as Lewiston State Normal School, dedicated to training Idaho's teachers.
✦Pioneered hands-on teaching and vocational education ('manual training') in its early years.
✦Demonstrated remarkable resilience, surviving a devastating fire (1917) and multiple legislative closures.
✦Played a crucial role during WWII, expanding nurse training and producing Navy Air School fliers.
✦Evolved from a two-year normal school to a full four-year institution by 1963.
✦Officially became Lewis-Clark State College in 1971, the last normal school in the U.S. to make this change.
✦Approved to rebrand as Lewis-Clark State University in April 2025, reflecting broader academic offerings.

Timeline

1893

Authorized as Lewiston State Normal School.

1896

Opened for classes.

1917

Administration Building severely damaged by fire.

1943

Achieved full four-year status as North Idaho Teachers College.

1951

Closed by state legislature due to budget cuts.

1955

Reopened as Lewis-Clark Normal School, a two-year institution.

1963

Elevated to independent, four-year institution.

1971

Name officially changed to Lewis-Clark State College.

2025

Approved to rebrand as Lewis-Clark State University.

🏛️

133 Years

of Excellence

Leadership

Cynthia Pemberton

President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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