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Simpson College

Indianola, IA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1860
Founded
Private college
Type
1,130
Total Students
1,127
Undergrad
24
Graduate
$79M
Endowment
$46K
Tuition (In-State)
$46K
Tuition (Out-State)
$22K
Avg Net Price
89%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Graduation Rate
6-year
76%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Susan Stuebner

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

About Simpson College

Simpson College: Over 160 years of private education and Methodist tradition in Iowa.

Simpson College stands as a testament to enduring educational commitment, with a history spanning over 160 years. Founded in 1860 as the Indianola Male and Female Seminary, it quickly evolved, becoming the Des Moines Conference Seminary before achieving college status in 1867. Renamed Simpson Centenary College to honor the esteemed Bishop Matthew Simpson and celebrate a century of American Methodism, it later simplified its name to Simpson College in 1885, cementing its identity.

Today, this private college continues its mission under the leadership of President Susan Stuebner, serving a vibrant community of 1,151 students. Its rich heritage provides a strong foundation for a student experience rooted in tradition while embracing modern educational approaches. The close-knit campus environment, typical of a private college of its size, fosters personal growth and strong connections among students and faculty.

With an endowment of $0.1 billion, Simpson College offers a robust educational setting. Prospective students and their families will find a college dedicated to providing a comprehensive experience within a supportive and historic framework, carrying forward a legacy of academic pursuit and community engagement.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1860, boasting over 160 years of educational heritage.
  • A private college serving 1,151 students, fostering a close-knit academic community.
  • Currently led by President Susan Stuebner, who began her tenure in 2025.
  • Maintains an endowment of $0.1 billion, supporting its mission and programs.
  • Originally founded as the Indianola Male and Female Seminary, demonstrating a long tradition of co-education.

Timeline

1860
Indianola Male and Female Seminary opened.
1865
Name changed to the Des Moines Conference Seminary.
1867
School upgraded to a college and renamed Simpson Centenary College.
1885
Centenary dropped from the name, becoming simply Simpson College.
2025
Susan Stuebner begins tenure as President of Simpson College.
🏛️
166 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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