Alma College: A Blend of Tradition, Innovation, and Athletic Excellence in NCAA Division III
Alma College, a private liberal arts college rooted in Scottish heritage and nestled in the heart of Michigan, offers a unique educational experience that combines tradition with modern innovation. Founded in 1886 by Michigan Presbyterians, Alma College stands out with its forward-thinking philosophy, integrating academic excellence, real-world experience, and personal development. As an NCAA Division III institution, Alma College provides a comprehensive environment where students can excel both academically and athletically.
A Foundation of History and Heritage
On October 26, 1886, the Presbyterian Synod of Michigan accepted an offer by Ammi W. Wright of Alma of thirty acres of land, containing two buildings, and a gift of $50,000 from Alexander Folsom of Bay City, for the purpose of establishing Alma College. The Synod had resolved: "We will, with God's help, establish and endow a college within our bounds." A charter was granted by the state of Michigan, April 15, 1887. Classes began September 12, 1887. In the first year there were 95 students and nine faculty members. The college's 14th president, Joseph L. Odenwald, continues to uphold the college's mission. In 1931, the college hosted a contest to replace their current mascot at the time, the Fighting Presbyterians, and "the Scots"-a nod to the Presbyterian Church's roots in Scotland-was chosen.
The college's Scottish roots are celebrated through various campus traditions, including a renowned Highland Arts program. This unique aspect of Alma College enriches the student experience and fosters a sense of community and pride.
Academic Programs and Opportunities
Alma College offers more than 45 undergraduate academic programs, and two graduate programs, leading to Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Music, Master of Fine Arts and Master of Arts. In addition to the academic majors, numerous concentrations, academic institutes, and special programs are offered, including the Honors Program and the Center for College and Community Engagement.
Alma College is committed to providing a tailored education. The college offers residential undergraduate degrees, as well as low-residency and online graduate degrees. Students benefit from a close-knit, supportive learning environment with a global perspective. With a student-centered approach, Alma College ensures that students graduate prepared for success in their chosen careers.
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The college emphasizes real-world experience through various off-campus and internship programs in cities such as Chicago, New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. These opportunities allow students to apply their knowledge in professional settings, enhancing their skills and preparing them for future careers.
The 4-4-1 academic calendar, featuring 14-week terms in the fall and winter and a four-week term in May, allows for focused study and unique learning experiences. This structure enables students to engage in intensive courses, travel programs, and specialized projects.
Campus Life and Facilities
Alma College is situated in the small-town setting of Alma, Michigan, a city with slightly fewer than 10,000 residents. The campus is centered around McIntyre Mall, with primary academic buildings featuring a distinctive red brick motif. Most buildings are located on North Campus, including major dormitory residences, academic facilities, and student life centers. South Campus offers suite-style residences, environmentally friendly apartment-style housing at Wright Hall, and "Fraternity Row" and "Sorority Row."
Significant investments have been made in campus facilities, including the Dow Science Center, renovated in 2018, which features the Gerstacker Science and Technology Suite and the Dow Digital Science Center (DDSC). These spaces provide academic student study areas, large screen monitors for showing remote projects in real time, dedicated computer work stations, a large conference room designed for distance room and a seminar room. In 2019, the college dedicated the Wright Leppien Opera House Block, a historic structure in downtown Alma renovated after a fire.
NCAA Division III Athletics at Alma College
Alma College's athletic teams, known as the Scots, compete in the NCAA Division III. The college offers 12 men's and 12 women's NCAA sports, along with co-ed esports and women's bowling, competitive cheer, dance, and STUNT. The mascot of Alma College is Scotty. Alma athletics teams are nicknamed the Scots. In December 2021, the college announced the addition of women's wrestling [22] bringing the total number of sports offered up to 12 men's NCAA and 12 women's NCAA, plus co-ed esports and women's bowling, competitive cheer, dance, and STUNT.
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Alma College is part of NCAA Division III, which comprises 424 schools across 36 states with over 186,000 student-athletes. Division III emphasizes a balance between academics and athletics, allowing students to pursue their passions in both areas. While Division III schools may not offer athletic scholarships, they provide a competitive environment for student-athletes who are dedicated to their sports and academic pursuits.
Alma College competes in the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA), one of the oldest conferences in the nation. This affiliation ensures competitive matchups and opportunities for student-athletes to excel within a regional context.
Recent Athletic Achievements
The Alma College Scots have achieved significant success in recent years. For the second consecutive year, the Scots finished the regular season undefeated, going 10-0 and winning the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) championship. Thanks to an incredible, come-from-behind victory on the road against highly favored Mount Union (Ohio) University, Alma reached the third round of the playoffs for the first time in program history.
Football Success in 2023
In 2023, the Scots excelled in all facets of the game. During the regular season, Alma averaged more than 50 points per game. Quarterback Carter St. John was named the MIAA Offensive Most Valuable Player. In total, 11 players were named to the All-MIAA First Team: St. John, Devon Frenchko, Nate Webb, Reese Townsend, Jerome Roberson, Hunter Sanderson, Eli Jackson, Odin Soffredine, Drew Humm, Bryce Fredenburg and Zach Poff. Jason Couch picked up accolades, too.
The team's success garnered significant media attention, with coverage from major outlets such as the Detroit Free Press, Detroit News, and MLive. Bahlke Field was filled with enthusiastic students and alumni, creating an electric atmosphere.
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Comprehensive Wellness and Support
Alma College integrates wellness into every aspect of college life. The college offers a comprehensive whole-body scan located right on campus that evaluates bone density, lean muscle, and fat mass. This commitment to student well-being ensures that athletes and all students have access to resources that support their physical and mental health.
The "Evergreen" Plan: A Vision for the Future
Alma College is guided by "Evergreen," a dynamic plan that represents a commitment to a future-focused vision. This blueprint outlines the college's strategies to meet the evolving needs of its students, community, and the world. The Board of Trustees plays a crucial role in guiding Alma College and ensuring that it adheres to its mission and strategic goals.
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