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Randolph College

Lynchburg, VA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Vita Abundantior(Life More Abundant)

Wikipedia
1891
Founded
Private liberal arts college
Type
520
Total Students
634
Undergrad
93
Graduate
$197M
Endowment
(2022)
$29K
Tuition (In-State)
$29K
Tuition (Out-State)
$18K
Avg Net Price
95%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Graduation Rate
6-year
68%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Sue Ott Rowlands

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

About Randolph College

Randolph College: A historic women's college that boldly embraced coeducation and a vibrant future.

Randolph College, a private liberal arts institution rooted in a rich history, stands as a testament to evolving educational landscapes. Founded in 1891 by William Waugh Smith with the inspiring motto "Vita Abundantior" (A More Abundant Life), it began its journey as Randolph-Macon Woman's College, dedicated to empowering women through education. Nestled on 50 scenic acres in Lynchburg, Virginia, the college quickly established itself as a beacon of academic excellence in the South.

A significant milestone in its early history occurred in 1916 when it proudly became the first women's college in the South to earn a Phi Beta Kappa charter, underscoring its rigorous academic standards and commitment to intellectual inquiry. For decades, it fostered a unique environment where women could thrive, providing a comprehensive liberal arts education that prepared them for impactful lives and careers.

In a pivotal decision in 2006, driven by market realities and a desire to secure its future, the college announced its transition to coeducation. This bold move led to its renaming as Randolph College on July 1, 2007. While the transition brought challenges, it also marked the beginning of a new chapter, broadening its reach and continuing its legacy of dedicated liberal arts education to a diverse student body. Today, Randolph College remains committed to its core mission, offering a vibrant and engaging student experience within its historic setting.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1891 as Randolph-Macon Woman's College, a pioneering institution for women's education.
  • Achieved the distinction of being the first women's college in the South to earn a Phi Beta Kappa charter in 1916, signifying academic rigor.
  • Transitioned to a coeducational institution and was renamed Randolph College on July 1, 2007.
  • Operates with an endowment of $0.2 billion, supporting its educational mission.
  • Historic Main Hall, built in 1891, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • Dedicated to a private liberal arts college model, offering a comprehensive educational experience.

Timeline

1891
Founded as Randolph-Macon Woman's College; Main Hall built.
1916
Became the first women's college in the South to earn a Phi Beta Kappa charter.
1953
Governed by a separate board of trustees from Randolph-Macon College.
1979
Main Hall listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
2006
Announced the decision to adopt coeducation and change its name.
2007
Renamed Randolph College and officially became coeducational.
2010
The last class with the option to receive diplomas from Randolph-Macon Woman's College graduated.
🏛️
135 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

via Wikipedia
Sue Ott Rowlands
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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