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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: Where a rich history meets personalized education.

Simpson College stands as a vibrant private college in Iowa, boasting a rich heritage that dates back to its founding in 1860. With a close-knit community of 1151 students, Simpson offers a personalized educational experience rooted in its deep history and commitment to academic excellence. As a private institution, it provides a distinctive environment designed to foster intellectual growth and prepare students for impactful careers and lives.

The college's journey began as the Indianola Male and Female Seminary. It evolved significantly, becoming the Des Moines Conference Seminary before achieving college status in 1867. This transformation marked its renaming to Simpson Centenary College, a tribute to the eminent Methodist Bishop Matthew Simpson and a celebration of American Methodism's centennial. Over the decades, it refined its identity, becoming simply Simpson College in 1885, a name now synonymous with quality education in the region.

Students at Simpson College benefit from an intimate learning environment where faculty can provide dedicated attention, a hallmark of a private institution. This focus on individual development allows for robust academic programs and a supportive community ethos. With a significant endowment of $0.1 billion, the college continues to invest in resources that enhance the student experience, ensuring a valuable and enriching collegiate journey. Under the leadership of President Susan Stuebner, Simpson College is poised to continue its legacy of nurturing future leaders and engaged citizens.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1860, boasting over 160 years of educational history.
  • A private college known for its personalized learning environment.
  • Serves a vibrant community of 1151 students.
  • Operates with an endowment of $0.1 billion, supporting its mission and programs.
  • Led by current President Susan Stuebner, who began her tenure in 2025.
  • Originally established as the Indianola Male and Female Seminary.

Timeline

1860
Indianola Male and Female Seminary opened.
1865
Name changed to Des Moines Conference Seminary.
1867
Upgraded to a college and renamed Simpson Centenary College.
1885
The name simplified to Simpson College.
2025
Susan Stuebner began her tenure as President.
🏛️
166 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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