Vassar College

Portrait of Matthew Vassar by Charles Loring Elliott

Vassar College ca 1862 edit1

Catharine Bond Hill graduation 2008

Vassar College Observatory, March 2014

Thompson Library (Vassar College)

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Vassar College is a private liberal arts college located in Poughkeepsie, New York, United States. Founded in 1861 by Matthew Vassar, it was the second degree-granting institution of higher education for women in the United States. It became coeducational in 1969. Vassar is often praised for its beautiful campus, a 1,000-acre area that includes over 100 buildings designed by many notable architects.

History

Vassar College was established with the intention of providing women with an education equivalent to that available to men at the time. The college's founding was a significant milestone in the history of higher education and women's rights in the United States. Over the years, Vassar has maintained its commitment to liberal arts education while expanding its curriculum to include a wider range of subjects.

Academics

Vassar offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in more than 50 majors, including but not limited to psychology, biology, history, and film and drama. The college operates on a semester system, with a highly flexible curriculum that encourages students to explore various disciplines. Vassar is known for its undergraduate research opportunities, small class sizes, and a faculty comprised of leading scholars and researchers.

Campus

The Vassar campus, often referred to as the Vassar College Arboretum, features a mix of historic and modern buildings. Notable facilities include the Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center, one of the first college art museums in the country, and the Adriance Memorial Library, which houses an extensive collection of books and manuscripts. The campus is also home to the Vassar Farm and Ecological Preserve, a 400-acre area dedicated to environmental research.

Student Life

Vassar College has a vibrant student life with over 100 student organizations, including cultural clubs, sports teams, and volunteer services. The college is part of the Liberty League for NCAA Division III athletics, with teams in sports such as basketball, cross country, and lacrosse. Vassar's commitment to inclusivity and diversity is evident in its various programs and initiatives aimed at supporting students from all backgrounds.

Notable Alumni

Vassar College has produced a wide range of distinguished alumni, including Meryl Streep, an acclaimed actress; Elizabeth Bishop, a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet; and Grace Hopper, a pioneering computer scientist. These individuals exemplify the college's tradition of fostering talent that contributes significantly to society.

Admissions

Admission to Vassar is highly competitive, with the college seeking students who demonstrate academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to community. The admissions process considers a variety of factors, including academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal essays.

Conclusion

Vassar College remains a leading institution in liberal arts education, known for its rigorous academic programs, beautiful campus, and commitment to social responsibility. Its history as a pioneer in women's education and its ongoing dedication to inclusivity and diversity make it a unique and respected college in the United States.