The Evergreen State College

The Evergreen State College, founded in 1967 in Olympia, Washington, stands out as a unique public liberal arts institution dedicated to a non-traditional educational philosophy. Unlike many universities, Evergreen foregoes traditional grades, instead offering students substantive narrative evaluations of their work. This innovative approach fosters a learning environment where curiosity and deep engagement are prioritized over conventional metrics, aligning with its Latin motto, "Omnia Extares" – "Let it all hang out."

Evergreen was envisioned as an "experiment" in higher education, one of many alternative colleges launched in the 1960s and 70s that chose a distinct path. Its enabling legislation in 1967 ensured a sprawling 1,000-acre campus, making it the largest in the state at its inception and providing a rich, natural setting including a saltwater beach on Puget Sound. This commitment to an unconventional curriculum has allowed Evergreen to adapt and endure, maintaining its unique identity even as many of its contemporaries shifted to more mainstream models.

Academically, Evergreen empowers students with the option to design their own study path toward a degree or engage in predetermined, interdisciplinary academic programs. These programs are designed to explore several disciplines in a coordinated manner, encouraging a holistic understanding of complex subjects. The college offers Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees, alongside specialized Master's programs including Environmental Studies, Teaching, and Public Administration.

While the college faced enrollment challenges in the late 2010s, it has demonstrated remarkable resilience and is now experiencing a significant resurgence, with four consecutive years of enrollment growth as of the 2024-2025 school year, including a 23% increase in 2023. This resurgence highlights the enduring appeal of Evergreen's distinct educational model and its commitment to fostering a vibrant, adaptable, and forward-thinking academic community.