Introduction
Nestled in the lush greenery of Philadelphia’s Chestnut Hill neighborhood, Chestnut Hill College is a private, coeducational Catholic liberal arts college. Founded in 1924 by the Sisters of Saint Joseph, the college boasts a rich history and an impressive campus that sits on a 75-acre arboretum. With a focus on academic excellence, Chestnut Hill College offers more than 35 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a variety of fields, including business, education, healthcare, and the arts. But Chestnut Hill College is more than just a school – it’s a vibrant community that fosters personal growth, intellectual curiosity, and spiritual development. In this blog post, we’ll explore some fun facts about Chestnut Hill College that you may not have known before.
The Campus is Home to a 150-Year-Old Tree
One of the most impressive features of Chestnut Hill College’s campus is its arboretum, which boasts more than 50 species of trees and shrubs. But one tree, in particular, stands out – the 150-year-old dawn redwood. This towering tree was planted on the campus in the 1970s and has since become a beloved symbol of the college’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. In fact, the college has implemented a number of green initiatives over the years, including a campus-wide recycling program and the installation of solar panels on several buildings.
The dawn redwood, which is native to China, is known for its towering height and its striking red-brown bark. It’s also a deciduous tree, meaning that it sheds its needles every fall, providing a colorful display of foliage. Visitors to the Chestnut Hill College campus can often be found admiring the beauty of this remarkable tree.
Chestnut Hill College is Home to a Haunted Mansion
If you’re a fan of ghost stories and the paranormal, you’ll be intrigued to learn that Chestnut Hill College is home to a haunted mansion. The Stotesbury Mansion, which is located on the college’s campus, was built in the early 1900s and was once the home of one of Philadelphia’s wealthiest families. According to local legend, the mansion is haunted by the ghost of Edward “Ned” Stotesbury, who died in 1938. Visitors and staff members have reported seeing apparitions, hearing strange noises, and feeling a general sense of unease when inside the mansion.
Despite its spooky reputation, the Stotesbury Mansion is a beautiful example of Beaux-Arts architecture and is often used for special events, including weddings and conferences. If you’re brave enough, you can even take a guided tour of the mansion and learn more about its fascinating history and eerie past.
Chestnut Hill College Offers a Unique Study Abroad Experience
Studying abroad is a popular option for college students who want to broaden their horizons and experience new cultures. But at Chestnut Hill College, students have the opportunity to do something truly unique – participate in a semester-long study abroad program in Rome, Italy. The Rome Program, which is offered in partnership with the Augustinian College of Rome, allows students to immerse themselves in Italian culture and history while earning college credit.
During the program, students live in a residence hall in the heart of Rome and take classes on a variety of subjects, including art history, theology, and Italian language. They also have the opportunity to travel throughout Italy and other parts of Europe, visiting historical sites, museums, and cultural landmarks. The Rome Program is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students who want to expand their academic and personal horizons.
Chestnut Hill College Boasts an Impressive Art Collection
Chestnut Hill College is home to an impressive collection of artwork, with more than 2,500 pieces on display throughout the campus. The collection includes works by both established and emerging artists, representing a wide range of styles and mediums. Some of the most notable pieces in the collection include a series of large-scale tapestries by artist John Nava, a bronze sculpture by Auguste Rodin, and a collection of works by local Philadelphia artists.
The college also has a dedicated art gallery, the Dwight and Lucille Beeson Center for the Arts, which hosts rotating exhibitions and events throughout the year. In addition to showcasing the college’s own collection, the gallery features works by visiting artists and curators, making it a vibrant hub of artistic activity in the Chestnut Hill community.
Chestnut Hill College has a Strong Athletics Program
While Chestnut Hill College is known for its academic rigor and commitment to the arts, it also has a strong athletics program that includes 16 NCAA Division II teams. The Griffins, as the college’s sports teams are known, compete in a variety of sports, including basketball, soccer, lacrosse, and cross-country. The college also has a coed equestrian team that competes in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association.
Despite its relatively small size, Chestnut Hill College has had considerable success in athletics, with several teams earning conference championships and competing in national tournaments. The college’s commitment to athletics is reflected in its state-of-the-art facilities, including a recently renovated fitness center and an on-campus track and field complex.
Chestnut Hill College is Committed to Social Justice
As a Catholic institution, Chestnut Hill College has a long-standing commitment to social justice and community engagement. The college’s mission statement emphasizes the importance of serving others and working for the common good, and this commitment is reflected in a variety of initiatives and programs on campus.
One of the most notable examples is the college’s partnership with the nearby Norwood-Fontbonne Academy, a K-8 Catholic school. Chestnut Hill College students work as tutors and mentors to Norwood-Fontbonne students, providing academic support and fostering positive relationships between the two schools. The college also hosts a variety of events and speakers focused on issues of social justice, including a recent lecture by civil rights leader Angela Davis.
Conclusion
Chestnut Hill College is a dynamic and multifaceted institution that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in the arts, athletics, social justice, or academic excellence. From its impressive art collection to its haunted mansion, from its commitment to sustainability to its unique study abroad program, the college is full of surprises and delights. Whether you’re a current student, an alum, or just a curious visitor, there’s always something new to discover at Chestnut Hill College.