Introduction
Hastings College is a small, private, liberal arts college located in Hastings, Nebraska. It was founded in 1882 and has a rich history of providing quality education to its students. Over the years, Hastings College has become known for its strong academic programs, outstanding faculty, and supportive community. However, there are also many fun facts about Hastings College that you may not know. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the interesting and quirky facts about Hastings College that make it such a unique and special place.
Famous Alumni
Hastings College has a long list of accomplished alumni who have made their mark in various fields. Some of the most notable ones include:
Katharine “Kay” Orr – the first woman to be elected governor of Nebraska Cory Booker – U.S. Senator from New Jersey and former mayor of Newark John M. Ackerman – former CEO of PepsiCo Marg Helgenberger – Emmy Award-winning actress best known for her role on CSI: Crime Scene Investigation John Stamos – actor best known for his role on Full House
These are just a few of the many Hastings College alumni who have gone on to achieve great success in their careers. The college takes pride in the achievements of its alumni and encourages current students to follow in their footsteps.
Campus Traditions
Hastings College has several traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation of students. These traditions are an important part of the college’s culture and help to build a sense of community among students. Here are a few examples of some of the most popular campus traditions:
Bronco Bash – This is a campus-wide event held at the beginning of each academic year. It includes food, games, music, and other activities designed to welcome new students and help them get to know their classmates.
Homecoming – Hastings College has a long-standing tradition of celebrating homecoming each fall. The weekend includes a parade, football game, and various other events that bring together current students, alumni, and members of the community.
J-Term – Hastings College offers a unique January Term (J-Term) that allows students to take a single course for three weeks. During J-Term, students have the opportunity to study a subject that may not be offered during the regular academic year and to explore new areas of interest.
May Day – This is an annual celebration held on the first Saturday in May. It includes a parade, games, and other activities designed to celebrate the arrival of spring and the end of the academic year.
Academic Programs
Hastings College is known for its strong academic programs, which cover a wide range of subjects. Some of the most popular majors include:
Biology – Hastings College has a strong biology program that prepares students for careers in healthcare, research, and other related fields.
Business – The college’s business program offers a variety of courses in areas such as accounting, finance, marketing, and management. Many graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers in business and entrepreneurship.
Education – Hastings College has a well-respected education program that prepares students to become teachers in elementary and secondary schools. The program emphasizes hands-on experience in the classroom and provides students with the skills they need to be effective educators.
Music – Hastings College has a long tradition of excellence in music. The college offers a variety of music programs, including vocal and instrumental performance, music education, and music composition.
Campus Facilities
Hastings College has a beautiful campus that is home to many state-of-the-art facilities. Here are a few examples:
Fleishman Center for Digital Learning – This center is home to the college’s technology resources, including computer labs, multimedia production studios, and a video production suite. It provides students with access to the latest technology and equipment to support their academic work.
Lynn Farrell Arena – This arena is the home of the Hastings College Bronco basketball and volleyball teams. It has a seating capacity of 2,200 and is a popular venue for college and community events.
Hazelrigg Student Union – This building serves as the hub of campus life. It includes a dining hall, student lounge areas, meeting rooms, and offices for various student organizations.
Wilson Library – The college’s library houses over 250,000 volumes of books, periodicals, and other resources. It also includes a computer lab, study rooms, and a coffee shop.
Sustainability Initiatives
Hastings College is committed to sustainability and has implemented several initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and promote environmental stewardship. Here are a few examples:
Solar Panels – In 2019, Hastings College installed over 1,300 solar panels on campus. These panels generate enough electricity to power approximately 10% of the college’s total energy needs.
Bike Share Program – The college has a bike share program that allows students to rent bikes for free. This encourages students to use sustainable transportation and reduce their carbon footprint.
Green Roof – The Lynn Farrell Arena features a green roof, which is covered in vegetation that helps to reduce the building’s energy use and stormwater runoff.
LEED Certification – Several buildings on campus have been certified by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program, including the Hazelrigg Student Union and the Fleishman Center for Digital Learning.
Conclusion
Hastings College is a unique and special place that is known for its strong academic programs, supportive community, and rich history. The college’s famous alumni, campus traditions, academic programs, campus facilities, and sustainability initiatives all contribute to its vibrant and dynamic culture. Whether you are a current student, alumni, or just interested in learning more about Hastings College, there is no doubt that this small liberal arts college has much to offer.
