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The College of Wooster

Wooster, OH

private nonprofitbachelors

Quick Facts

Ex Uno Fonte / Independent Minds, Working Together

1866
Founded
Private liberal arts college
Type
1,876
Total Students
$437M
Endowment
(2024)
$60K
Tuition (In-State)
$60K
Tuition (Out-State)
$26K
Avg Net Price
54%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Graduation Rate
6-year
81%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Anne E. McCall

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

About The College of Wooster

Wooster champions independent minds, fostering liberal arts excellence with a rich Scottish heritage.

Nestled in Ohio, The College of Wooster stands as a distinguished private liberal arts institution, renowned for cultivating independent thinkers and fostering a vibrant community. Founded in 1866 with the inspiring motto 'Ex Uno Fonte / Independent Minds, Working Together,' Wooster has consistently prioritized a personalized undergraduate experience under the leadership of President Anne E. McCall. Its commitment to a comprehensive liberal arts education prepares students not just for careers, but for lives of purpose and impact.

From its inception as the University of Wooster, the institution quickly distinguished itself with a pioneering spirit. Opening its doors in 1870, it broke barriers early on, granting its first Ph.D. to a woman, Annie B. Irish, in 1882, and welcoming its first Black student, Clarence Allen, shortly thereafter. This dedication to inclusivity laid the groundwork for a legacy of academic freedom, famously defended by President Charles F. Wishart in the 1920s when he championed the teaching of evolution against significant opposition. The institution's dedication to undergraduate studies was solidified in 1915 when it was formally renamed The College of Wooster.

Beyond its academic rigor, Wooster boasts a unique and cherished Scottish heritage. Adorned in the black and old gold of the MacLeod tartan, the college's 'Fighting Scot' mascot is a testament to this vibrant tradition. Football games are transformed into cultural spectacles, featuring both a traditional marching band and an energetic Scottish pipe band with Highland dancers, all proudly wearing the tartan. This rich cultural identity is further supported by the 'Scottish Arts Scholarship,' encouraging students to contribute their talents as pipers, drummers, or dancers, enriching the campus experience for all.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1866 as the University of Wooster, evolving into a dedicated liberal arts college.
  • A private liberal arts institution with an endowment of $0.4 billion and 1,876 students.
  • Pioneered inclusivity, granting its first Ph.D. to a woman in 1882 and welcoming its first Black student in the same decade.
  • Defended academic freedom, notably against opposition to the teaching of evolution in the 1920s.
  • Embraces a unique Scottish heritage, featuring a pipe band, Highland dancers, and Scottish Arts Scholarships.
  • Motto: 'Ex Uno Fonte / Independent Minds, Working Together,' reflecting its collaborative and individualistic approach.
  • Led by President Anne E. McCall, who was inaugurated in October 2023.

Timeline

1866
Founded as the University of Wooster by the Presbyterian Synod of Ohio.
1870
Opened its doors with a faculty of five and a student body of thirty men and four women.
1882
Granted its first Ph.D. to a woman, Annie B. Irish.
1915
Renamed The College of Wooster, dedicating itself to undergraduate liberal arts education.
1923
President Charles F. Wishart defeats William Jennings Bryan for Moderator of the General Assembly on the evolution issue.
1939
Received a donation to purchase kilts, establishing the MacLeod tartan and strengthening Scottish heritage.
1944
Howard F. Lowry begins his presidency, serving until 1967.
2015
Sarah Bolton named its twelfth president and first female president.
2023
Anne E. McCall inaugurated as the current president.
🏛️
160 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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