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Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Abington

Abington, PA

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Quick Facts

1850
Founded
Commonwealth campus
Type
3,074
Total Students
2,710
Undergrad
5
Graduate
$15K
Tuition (In-State)
$25K
Tuition (Out-State)
$18K
Avg Net Price
92%
Acceptance Rate
22%
Graduation Rate
6-year
77%
Retention Rate
President: Neeli Bendapudi

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

About Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Abington

A dynamic Penn State campus with a rich legacy, from historic girls' seminary to modern academic hub.

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Abington offers an engaging and supportive academic environment rooted in a fascinating history. What began in 1850 as the Chestnut Street Female Seminary, a private girls' school with a classical curriculum, evolved through various stages, including its tenure as the esteemed Ogontz School for Girls. This heritage provides a unique backdrop for today's students, combining a sense of tradition with cutting-edge education.

Over the decades, the institution transformed. It relocated to the grand Ogontz estate in 1883 and later, under the leadership of Abby A. Sutherland, moved to its present Abington Township location in 1916. The school's past boasts notable figures, including aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart, who studied here before embarking on her legendary career. Her spirit of ambition and exploration resonates with the campus's commitment to student growth and achievement.

In 1950, a pivotal moment arrived when the property was generously donated to Pennsylvania State University, marking its new identity as Penn State Ogontz. This transition solidified its place within one of the nation's premier public university systems. Today, as Penn State Abington, it continues to serve 2,715 students as a vital Commonwealth campus, offering the comprehensive academic strengths and resources of Penn State within a close-knit community atmosphere. Prospective students and families will find a campus that blends historical significance with contemporary learning, preparing graduates for successful futures.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1850 as the Chestnut Street Female Seminary, making it one of the oldest institutions in its lineage.
  • ✦Originally a prestigious private girls' school, the Ogontz School, known for its classical curriculum.
  • ✦Currently serves 2,715 students as a vibrant Commonwealth campus of Pennsylvania State University.
  • ✦Counts aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart among its notable former students, who studied here in the early 20th century.
  • ✦Transformed into a Penn State campus in 1950 after the property was donated to the university.
  • ✦Offers the extensive academic resources and reputation of the Penn State system within a local, community-focused setting.

Timeline

1850
Founded as the Chestnut Street Female Seminary in Philadelphia.
1883
Moves to Jay Cooke's Ogontz estate and is renamed The Ogontz School for Girls.
1916
Abby A. Sutherland purchases the school and moves operations to Abington Township, building the Sutherland and Rydal Buildings.
1937
Former student Amelia Earhart disappears during her attempt to circumnavigate the globe.
1950
Abby A. Sutherland donates the property and facilities to Pennsylvania State University, becoming Penn State Ogontz.
1995
Renamed Penn State Abington-Ogontz to strengthen ties with the local community.
1997
Designated as a Penn State college and officially renamed Penn State Abington.
🏛️
176 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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