Introduction
Central College, located in Pella, Iowa, is a private liberal arts college with a rich history and vibrant present. Established in 1853, Central College has been educating students for over 150 years. With a student body of around 1,000, Central College offers a personalized educational experience that is hard to find at larger universities. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about Central College that you may not have known before.
The Campus
Central College is known for its beautiful campus that spans over 70 acres in the heart of Pella, Iowa. The campus is home to a variety of unique features that make it stand out from other college campuses.
The Vermeer Mill
The Vermeer Mill, located on the west side of campus, is a must-see for anyone visiting Central College. The 100-foot-tall windmill was built in the Netherlands and transported to Iowa in the 2000s. The windmill serves as a symbol of the Dutch heritage of the area and is a popular spot for taking pictures.
The Maytag Student Center
The Maytag Student Center is the hub of student life at Central College. The center features a student lounge, game room, and several dining options, including a Starbucks. The Maytag Student Center is also home to the Central College bookstore, which offers a wide variety of Central College merchandise.
Academics
Central College offers a wide variety of academic programs, ranging from business and education to science and the arts. With a student-faculty ratio of 11:1, Central College provides a personalized educational experience that is hard to find at larger universities.
Dutch Studies Program
Central College is known for its Dutch Studies Program, which offers students the opportunity to study the Dutch language, culture, and history. The program includes a semester abroad in the Netherlands, where students can immerse themselves in Dutch culture and language.
Study Abroad Programs
Central College offers study abroad programs in over 20 countries, including China, Ghana, and France. The programs range in length from a few weeks to a full semester, and students have the opportunity to earn credit towards their degree while experiencing different cultures and ways of life.
Athletics
Central College is a member of the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and offers a variety of sports programs for both men and women.
Football
Central College is known for its football program, which has won 30 conference championships and made 17 appearances in the NCAA Division III playoffs. The Central Dutch football team plays its home games at Ron and Joyce Schipper Stadium, which has a seating capacity of over 6,000.
Track and Field
Central College is also known for its track and field program, which has produced several Olympic athletes, including Jeremy Wariner, a gold medalist in the 400 meters at the 2004 Athens Olympics. Central College hosts the annual Dutch Invitational track and field meet, which attracts teams from all over the Midwest.
Conclusion
Central College is a unique and vibrant institution that offers a personalized educational experience that is hard to find at larger universities. With its beautiful campus, wide variety of academic programs, and successful athletics programs, Central College has something for everyone. We hope you enjoyed learning some fun facts about Central College and encourage you to visit the campus to experience it for yourself.