Introduction
When it comes to choosing the right college, it’s not just about the academics and campus life, but also the unique history and culture that each institution possesses. Dean College, located in Franklin, Massachusetts, is a small private college that is steeped in history and has many fascinating facts that make it stand out from other colleges. In this blog post, we will explore some of the fun facts about Dean College that you may not have known before.
The Origin of Dean College’s Name
Dean College was founded in 1865 as the Dean Academy, named after Dr. Oliver Dean, who was a local physician and philanthropist. Dr. Dean was a strong believer in education and established the school to provide a quality education for young men and women in Franklin and the surrounding areas. The school was originally an all-boys academy until 1894, when it became co-educational.
The Inspiration Behind Dean College’s Colors
Dean College’s colors are purple and white, but have you ever wondered why those colors were chosen? The purple represents loyalty and white represents purity, which are values that the college holds in high regard. However, the inspiration behind the colors actually comes from the purple and white lilacs that used to bloom on campus. The lilacs were a gift from the Class of 1891 and have been a beloved symbol of the college ever since.
The Famous Alumni of Dean College
Dean College has a long list of notable alumni who have gone on to achieve great success in their fields. Some of the most famous alumni include:
- Steven Tyler, the lead singer of the rock band Aerosmith, who attended Dean College for a short time before pursuing his music career.
- Kyle Chalmers, an Olympic gold medalist in swimming who attended Dean College for a year before returning to his home country of Australia to train.
- Meredith Vieira, a well-known journalist and television personality who attended Dean College before transferring to Tufts University.
The Haunted Mansion on Dean College’s Campus
Dean College’s campus is home to a historic mansion called the “Old Main” building, which was built in 1853 and served as the main academic building until 1965. However, the building is also rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a former teacher named Mrs. Dowd. According to legend, Mrs. Dowd was a strict teacher who died in the building and her ghost has been seen wandering the halls late at night.
The Annual Thanksgiving Dinner Tradition
One of the most beloved traditions at Dean College is the annual Thanksgiving dinner, which has been a part of the school’s history since 1905. Every year, students, faculty, and staff come together to share a traditional Thanksgiving meal with all the fixings. It’s a time to connect with one another and give thanks for all the blessings in their lives.
The Dean College Dance Company
Dean College has a renowned dance program that includes the Dean College Dance Company, which is a student-run dance company that performs contemporary and modern dance pieces. The company has performed at prestigious venues such as the Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival and the Boston Contemporary Dance Festival.
The Iconic Dean College Archway
The Dean College archway, located at the entrance to campus, is a well-known landmark that has been a part of the college’s history since 1904. The archway was built by the Class of 1905 and was designed to be a symbol of the college’s commitment to education and the pursuit of knowledge.
The Academic Programs Offered at Dean College
Dean College offers a wide range of academic programs for undergraduate students. These include majors in business, communication, criminal justice, dance, education, healthcare, liberal arts, and more. The college also offers a variety of minors and certificate programs to help students customize their education and pursue their interests.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dean College is a unique and fascinating institution that has a lot to offer students and visitors alike. Whether you’re interested in its history, academic programs, or traditions, there’s always something interesting to learn about this college. From its famous alumni to its commitment to sustainability and diversity, Dean College truly has something for everyone.
