Colby-Sawyer College

Colby-Sawyer College is a private, not-for-profit liberal arts college located in New London, New Hampshire. It was founded on July 4, 1837, as a coeducational academy. The college is situated on a 200-acre (0.81 km²) campus, featuring 35 buildings.

History

Colby-Sawyer College has a rich history, initially operating as a coeducational institution. In the 1970s, the college faced a legal challenge over its proposed name changes, ultimately settling on Colby-Sawyer College to honor H. Leslie Sawyer, a former president who passed away in 1972. After being women-only for a period, it resumed coeducation in the fall of 1990.

Academics and Programs

Colby-Sawyer offers a wide range of academic programs, including 19 majors and 27 minors across liberal arts, health, social, and natural sciences. It is known for its small class sizes, with an average of 19 students per class, and a student-faculty ratio of 11:1. Every undergraduate student completes an internship as part of their educational experience, while also working on a Capstone project in their senior year. Additionally, all undergraduates earn a Liberal Education & Professionalization (LEAP) minor upon completing the general education requirements, reflecting their attainment of interdisciplinary skills.

Special Programs and Services

• Internships: All students engage in experiential learning through internships, enhancing their professional skills and networking opportunities.
• Capstone Projects: Each student completes a Capstone project in their senior year to demonstrate advanced knowledge in their major.
• Learning Portfolios: Students maintain electronic portfolios to track their progress and achievements throughout their college career.
• Honors Societies: Includes membership in honor societies such as Alpha Chi and Sigma Beta Delta.

Campus Life and Athletics

Colby-Sawyer College participates in NCAA Division III sports, with teams referred to as the Chargers. The campus offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports for both men and women.

Accreditation

Colby-Sawyer College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), among other bodies. It also holds specialized accreditations for programs in nursing and business administration.

Employment and Graduate School Outcomes

97% of graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation, with a significant number working directly in their field of study. The college supports a strong track record of career placement and further education.

Financials

As of recent years, the college's annual budget was approximately $58.5 million, with an endowment of about $55.6 million. The Colby-Sawyer Fund supports various initiatives and scholarships for students.

Facilities

The college boasts 35 buildings, including state-of-the-art facilities like the Curtis L. Ivey Science Center and the Windy Hill School, a child study lab that supports teacher education.

Partnerships

Colby-Sawyer maintains strategic partnerships, including a significant alliance with Dartmouth Health for nursing students, providing comprehensive clinical training opportunities.