Grace Hopper College

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Grace Hopper College is one of the fourteen residential colleges at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut. Originally established as Calhoun College in 1933, it was renamed in 2017 in honor of Grace Hopper, a pioneering computer scientist and United States Navy rear admiral.

History[edit | edit source]

Grace Hopper College was one of the original residential colleges created during the reorganization of Yale College in the early 1930s. The college was initially named after John C. Calhoun, a Yale alumnus and prominent 19th-century political figure. However, due to Calhoun's strong advocacy for slavery, the college was renamed in 2017 to honor Grace Hopper, a Yale alumna and a trailblazer in the field of computer science.

Architecture[edit | edit source]

The college's buildings were designed by John Russell Pope, a prominent architect known for his work on the Jefferson Memorial and the National Archives Building in Washington, D.C. The architecture of Grace Hopper College reflects the Collegiate Gothic style, characterized by its pointed arches, intricate stonework, and expansive courtyards.

Residential Life[edit | edit source]

Grace Hopper College provides a vibrant residential community for its students. Each residential college at Yale has its own dining hall, library, and common rooms, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere. The college also offers various student organizations, intramural sports teams, and social events.

Notable Alumni[edit | edit source]

Grace Hopper College has produced many distinguished alumni, including:

George H.W. Bush, the 41st President of the United States
Paul Krugman, Nobel Prize-winning economist
Jodie Foster, Academy Award-winning actress and director

Traditions[edit | edit source]

The college has several unique traditions, including the annual Grace Hopper College Tea, where students have the opportunity to meet and converse with prominent figures from various fields. Another tradition is the Grace Hopper College Day, a celebration featuring games, performances, and a formal dinner.

Renaming Controversy[edit | edit source]

The decision to rename the college was met with both support and opposition. Advocates for the change argued that honoring Calhoun was inappropriate given his pro-slavery stance, while opponents felt that renaming the college erased a part of Yale's history. Ultimately, the university decided to honor Grace Hopper, reflecting its commitment to diversity and inclusion.