Fun Facts About Westminster College

Introduction

Westminster College is a private liberal arts college located in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1852 and is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. Westminster College is known for its small class sizes, rigorous academic standards, and commitment to student success. With a student body of just over 1,500, Westminster College is the perfect place for students to get the individual attention they need to succeed. In this post, we will explore some of the fun facts about Westminster College that make it such a unique and special place.

Fun Facts About Westminster College

History

Westminster College was founded in 1852 by the Reverend William Watson Smith and his wife, Martha. Reverend Smith was a Presbyterian minister who wanted to create a college that would provide a quality education to students of all backgrounds. The college was originally located in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania and was known as the New Wilmington Seminary. In 1855, the school was renamed Westminster College and began to offer a four-year curriculum. Since then, the college has grown and expanded, offering a variety of programs and degrees to its students.

Campus

Westminster College’s campus is located on a beautiful 200-acre wooded hillside in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania. The campus features a variety of buildings, including the Old Main building, which is the oldest building on campus and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The campus also features a chapel, library, student center, and several residence halls. Westminster College is also home to the world’s only college-owned observatory, which is located on the roof of the Old Main building.

Student Life

Westminster College is committed to providing its students with a well-rounded college experience. The college offers a variety of student activities and organizations, including Greek life, intramural sports, and student government. The college also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as the annual Westminster College Homecoming and the Westminster College Music Festival. Students can also take advantage of the college’s many recreational facilities, which include a fitness center, tennis courts, and a swimming pool.

Academics

Westminster College is known for its rigorous academic standards and commitment to student success. The college offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in the liberal arts, sciences, and professional studies. The college also offers a number of online programs for students who are unable to attend classes on campus. The college is home to a number of research centers and institutes, including the Center for Political and Economic Thought and the Institute for Faith and Learning.

Notable Alumni

Westminster College has produced a number of notable alumni, including former U.S. Senator and presidential candidate Rick Santorum, former U.S. Congressman and Ambassador to the United Nations John E. Porter, and former U.S. Senator and presidential candidate John Heinz. The college has also produced several successful business leaders, including former Procter & Gamble CEO Bob McDonald and former National Football League Commissioner Paul Tagliabue.

Conclusion

Westminster College is a private liberal arts college located in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1852 and is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. Westminster College is known for its small class sizes, rigorous academic standards, and commitment to student success. With a student body of just over 1,500, Westminster College is the perfect place for students to get the individual attention they need to succeed. In this post, we explored some of the fun facts about Westminster College that make it such a unique and special place. From its historic campus to its impressive alumni, Westminster College is a place where students can grow and learn in a supportive and nurturing environment.