Introduction
Located on the shores of beautiful Keuka Lake in upstate New York, Keuka College is a small, private, liberal arts college that has been providing students with an exceptional education since 1890. While its size and location may make it easy to overlook, this hidden gem of a college is home to a vibrant community of scholars, artists, and athletes who are all dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and personal growth. In this post, we’ll explore some fun facts about Keuka College that you may not have known before.
Keuka College was the first college in the US to offer a degree in social work
In 1946, Keuka College became the first college in the United States to offer a degree in social work. At the time, social work was a relatively new field, but Keuka College recognized the growing need for trained professionals who could help address social problems such as poverty, homelessness, and addiction. Today, the College’s Division of Social Work offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in the field, and has a strong reputation for producing graduates who are well-prepared for careers in social services, counseling, and advocacy.
The College’s mascot is the Storm Petrel
The Storm Petrel is a small seabird that is known for its ability to weather even the fiercest storms. It’s also the mascot of Keuka College. The College’s athletic teams are known as the Storm, and the Storm Petrel can be found on everything from t-shirts to coffee mugs. While the choice of mascot may seem unusual at first, it actually reflects the College’s commitment to resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
Keuka College has a unique “field period” program
One of the most distinctive features of Keuka College’s academic program is its “field period” program. This program requires all students to complete three 140-hour internships or field experiences before they graduate. These experiences can take place anywhere in the world, and are designed to give students hands-on experience in their chosen fields. The program has been a huge success, and is often cited by alumni as one of the most valuable aspects of their Keuka College education.
The College has a strong commitment to sustainability
Keuka College is committed to reducing its environmental impact and promoting sustainability in all aspects of campus life. The College has implemented a number of initiatives to achieve this goal, including a comprehensive recycling program, a community garden, and a LEED-certified building. In addition, the College has made a commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, and has set a goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
The College’s founder was a pioneering educator
Keuka College was founded in 1890 by George Harvey Ball, a visionary educator who believed that a college education should be accessible to all, regardless of their background or financial means. Ball was also a pioneer in the field of coeducation, and Keuka College was one of the first colleges in the United States to admit women on an equal basis with men. Today, Ball’s legacy lives on at Keuka College, where students of all backgrounds and identities are welcomed and supported.
The College is home to a unique glass museum
The Corning Museum of Glass is located just a few miles from Keuka College, and the College has a strong connection to this world-renowned institution. In fact, Keuka College is home to a unique glass museum of its own, the Lightner Library’s World of Glass Museum. This museum features an impressive collection of glass objects from around the world, including antique glassware, contemporary art glass, and rare specimens from ancient civilizations.
The College has a strong tradition of community service
From its earliest days, Keuka College has been committed to serving its community and making a positive difference in the world. Today, that tradition continues through a wide range of community service and civic engagement programs. These programs include service-learning courses, volunteer opportunities, and community partnerships that allow students to apply their skills and knowledge to real-world problems. Keuka College students are known for their dedication to service, and many go on to pursue careers in fields such as education, social work, and public service.
The College is home to a thriving arts scene
Keuka College may be small, but it has a big presence in the arts. The College’s Division of Humanities and Fine Arts offers a range of programs in fields such as music, theatre, and visual arts. In addition, the College hosts a variety of arts events throughout the year, including concerts, art exhibitions, and theatre productions. Keuka College’s commitment to the arts is reflected in its beautiful campus, which features a number of sculptures, murals, and other works of art.
The College is located in one of the most beautiful regions of New York State
One of the best things about attending Keuka College is its location. The College is situated on the shores of Keuka Lake, one of the Finger Lakes region’s most beautiful and scenic destinations. The area is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and thriving wine industry. Students at Keuka College have access to all of this and more, making it an ideal place to live and learn.
The College has a strong sense of community
Perhaps the most important thing to know about Keuka College is that it has a strong sense of community. Students, faculty, and staff are all committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment where everyone can thrive. This sense of community is reflected in the College’s small class sizes, personalized attention, and emphasis on experiential learning. Students at Keuka College are not just numbers; they are valued members of a close-knit community that is dedicated to helping them achieve their goals.
Conclusion
Keuka College may be small, but it is full of surprises. From its pioneering programs in social work and coeducation to its commitment to sustainability and community service, there is much to admire about this hidden gem of a college. Whether you’re a prospective student, a current student, or an alum, Keuka College is a place where you can learn, grow, and make a difference in the world.
