Transylvania University

Transylvania University, affectionately known as "Transy," stands as a beacon of liberal arts education in Lexington, Kentucky. Founded in 1780, it holds the distinction of being Kentucky's oldest university, its very name, "across the woods," echoing its frontier origins in the historic Transylvania Colony. This private institution offers a rich and intimate academic environment, deeply rooted in its enduring motto: "In That Light, We Pass on the Light."

With a history as vibrant as the Commonwealth itself, Transylvania has played an outsized role in shaping American leadership. Long before Kentucky achieved statehood, it was chartered as Transylvania Seminary, becoming the first college west of the Allegheny Mountains. Over centuries, it has produced an astonishing array of statesmen, including two U.S. Vice Presidents, two Supreme Court Justices, 50 U.S. Senators, and numerous governors and ambassadors. This remarkable legacy underscores its enduring impact on both regional and national stages, even contributing to the foundation of the University of Kentucky.

Today, Transylvania continues its tradition of academic excellence, offering 46 diverse major programs alongside robust dual-degree engineering options. Its historical medical program has notably graduated 8,000 physicians since 1859, a testament to its long-standing commitment to professional preparation. With a close-knit student body of 1,007, Transylvania fosters a personalized learning experience. Students, known as the Pioneers and cheered on by mascot Raf, engage in a dynamic campus life within Lexington, balancing rigorous academics with a strong sense of community.