Introduction
Fort Lewis College is a public liberal arts college located in Durango, Colorado. The college was founded in 1911 and has since then become an important educational institution for the region. With a campus spanning over 247 acres, Fort Lewis College offers a unique learning experience to its students. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about Fort Lewis College that you might not have known before.
The History of Fort Lewis College
Fort Lewis College has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1911. The college was originally established as a boarding school for Native American children. The school was founded by the Presbyterian Church and was named the Fort Lewis Indian School. The school was named after General William Lewis, who was instrumental in establishing Fort Lewis in Durango.
The school continued to operate as a boarding school until the 1930s, when it was converted into a junior college. In 1948, Fort Lewis College became a four-year institution, offering baccalaureate degrees in various fields. Today, the college continues to offer undergraduate and graduate programs to students from all over the world.
Fort Lewis College’s Unique Campus
Fort Lewis College is located in a beautiful and unique setting. The campus is situated on a mesa overlooking the town of Durango and the surrounding mountains. The campus is also home to several unique buildings and landmarks that are worth exploring.
One of the most unique buildings on campus is the Berndt Hall. The building was designed by architect Antoine Predock and is an example of postmodern architecture. The building is made of concrete and has a unique shape that resembles a mesa. The building houses the Geosciences and Physics departments and is a popular spot for students to study and hang out.
Another landmark on campus is the Clock Tower. The tower is located at the heart of the campus and is a popular gathering spot for students. The tower also serves as a symbol of the college’s history and legacy.
Fort Lewis College’s Sports Programs
Fort Lewis College has a strong sports program that is highly regarded in the region. The college’s mascot is the Skyhawk, and the sports teams are known as the Fort Lewis Skyhawks. The college offers a wide range of sports programs, including basketball, cross country, soccer, softball, and volleyball.
One of the most successful sports programs at Fort Lewis College is the men’s soccer team. The team has won several NCAA Division II championships and has produced many successful professional soccer players. The team is known for its high level of play and is respected by soccer fans around the country.
The Native American and Indigenous Studies Program
Fort Lewis College has a strong commitment to Native American and Indigenous studies. The college offers a variety of programs and courses that focus on the history and culture of Native American and Indigenous people. The college also has a Native American Center, which serves as a hub for Native American and Indigenous students on campus.
One of the most unique programs offered by Fort Lewis College is the Native American and Indigenous Studies Program. The program offers students the opportunity to explore the culture, history, and traditions of Native American and Indigenous people. The program is highly regarded in the region and is a popular choice for students who are interested in this area of study.
The Fort Lewis College Observatory
Fort Lewis College is home to an observatory that is open to the public. The observatory is located on a hill overlooking the campus and offers a stunning view of the night sky. The observatory is equipped with several telescopes and is staffed by knowledgeable astronomers who are happy to answer questions and offer guidance to visitors.
The observatory is a popular spot for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts. Visitors can attend public observing nights, where they can look through telescopes and observe the planets, stars, and other celestial objects in the night sky. The observatory also hosts educational events and lectures, making it a great resource for students and the local community.
Sustainability Efforts at Fort Lewis College
Fort Lewis College is committed to sustainability and has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The college has a Sustainability Action Plan that outlines its goals and strategies for achieving sustainability. Some of the initiatives include energy efficiency upgrades, sustainable transportation options, and waste reduction programs.
One of the most unique sustainability initiatives at Fort Lewis College is the Solar PV System. The college has installed a 250 kW solar photovoltaic system on the roof of the Student Union Building. The system generates clean energy and helps the college reduce its carbon footprint.
The college also has a Zero Waste Program, which aims to divert waste from landfills and incinerators. The program includes composting, recycling, and waste reduction efforts. The college has also implemented a sustainable transportation program, which encourages biking, walking, and carpooling.
The John F. Reed Honors Program
Fort Lewis College has an Honors Program that offers challenging and engaging courses to high-achieving students. The John F. Reed Honors Program is named after the college’s first president and is one of the most prestigious programs at the college. The program is designed to provide students with a challenging and rigorous academic experience.
The program offers a variety of courses in different disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Students in the program also have the opportunity to participate in research projects and attend conferences and other academic events. The program is highly selective and admits only the top students at the college.
The Durango Experience
Fort Lewis College is located in the town of Durango, which offers a unique and exciting experience for students. The town is located in the Four Corners region and is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The town is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking, skiing, and rafting.
Durango also has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with many galleries, museums, and theaters. The town is home to the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a historic train that runs through the San Juan Mountains. The train is a popular tourist attraction and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Conclusion
Fort Lewis College is a unique and vibrant institution that offers students a high-quality education in a beautiful and inspiring setting. With its rich history, unique campus, strong sports programs, commitment to sustainability, and challenging academic programs, Fort Lewis College has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are a student, a faculty member, or a member of the local community, Fort Lewis College is a place where you can learn, grow, and thrive.
