Oberlin College

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Oberlin College - Severance Hall

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Oberlin College football team, 1892

Oberlin Conservatory of Music - entry

Oberlin College is a private liberal arts college and conservatory of music located in Oberlin, Ohio, United States. It is known for its progressive student activism and its commitment to both the arts and sciences. Founded in 1833 by John Jay Shipherd and Philo P. Stewart, Oberlin holds the distinction of being the oldest coeducational liberal arts college in the United States and the second oldest continuously operating coeducational institution of higher learning in the world. The college is also renowned for its history of admitting African American students and women into its programs alongside white men, a rarity at the time of its establishment.

History

Oberlin was founded with the intention of creating a college that would be open to all, irrespective of race or gender. This was a radical idea in early 19th-century America. In 1835, Oberlin College admitted its first black student and, in 1837, it graduated its first female students, making it a pioneer in higher education for both African Americans and women. The college's progressive ethos was further solidified by its active role in the abolitionist movement, serving as a key stop on the Underground Railroad.

Academics

Oberlin College offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across the College of Arts and Sciences and the Conservatory of Music. The college emphasizes a liberal arts education, requiring students to explore a broad curriculum before specializing. Oberlin's Conservatory of Music is particularly well-regarded, known for producing a significant number of professional musicians and composers.

Campus Life

The college's campus in Oberlin, Ohio, is noted for its vibrant student life and its commitment to sustainability. Students at Oberlin are known for their progressive activism, engaging in social and environmental causes. The college also hosts a variety of student organizations, clubs, and events, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere.

Notable Alumni

Oberlin has produced a number of notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields, including politics, the arts, sciences, and social activism. These include John Mercer Langston, the first African American lawyer in Ohio and the first black man to be elected to public office in the United States; Lorenzo D. Turner, a pioneering African American linguist; and Liz Phair, an influential singer-songwriter.

Controversies

Throughout its history, Oberlin College has been involved in several controversies, often related to its progressive stances. These have ranged from debates over academic freedom to disputes over social justice issues on campus. Despite these challenges, the college remains a symbol of educational innovation and social progress.

Conclusion

Oberlin College stands as a testament to the power of education as a force for social change. With its rich history of inclusivity and activism, combined with a strong academic and musical program, Oberlin continues to be a leading institution among American liberal arts colleges.