Alma College: A Legacy of Liberal Arts Education in Alma, Michigan
Alma College, a private liberal arts institution nestled in the city of Alma, Michigan, has been a cornerstone of higher education for over 135 years. Founded in 1886 by Michigan Presbyterians, the college has a rich history and a strong commitment to providing personalized education. This article explores the college's location, its history, academic offerings, campus life, and its role in the broader community.
Historical Context and Founding
The story of Alma College begins with the vision of the Presbyterian Synod of Michigan, who sought to establish a college within their bounds. On October 26, 1886, their vision materialized when Ammi W. Wright, a lumber magnate from Alma, generously offered thirty acres of land and two buildings. Adding to this, Alexander Folsom of Bay City contributed a gift of $50,000. The Synod formally resolved to establish and endow a college. A charter was granted by the state of Michigan on April 15, 1887, and classes commenced on September 12, 1887. The initial cohort comprised 95 students and nine faculty members.
Location and Accessibility
Alma College is situated in a small-town setting in the city of Alma, Michigan, which has a population of slightly fewer than 10,000 residents. The college is easily accessible by air, with Capital City Airport in Lansing (50 miles from campus) and MBS International Airport in Saginaw (35 miles from campus) providing convenient service. By car, the college can be reached via M-46, either east of US-131 (40 miles) or west of Saginaw (35 miles). From the north or south, take US-127 to the M-46 West exit. At Alger Rd., continue south on Business 127, which becomes Wright Avenue. Turn right onto Superior Street at the third stop light.
Campus Environment and Facilities
The college's primary academic buildings, characterized by a red brick motif, are centered around McIntyre Mall, a large square that serves as the heart of the campus. The majority of buildings are located on North Campus, north of Superior Street. This area houses the major dormitory residences, as well as the academic and student life buildings. South Campus features suite-style residences, including the "New Dorms" and Wright Hall, an environmentally friendly apartment-style residence inaugurated in 2005. South Campus is also home to "Fraternity Row" (Center Street) and "Sorority Row" (Superior Street), along with several other themed houses.
Many of the buildings on Alma's campus were constructed during the tenure of Robert D. Swanson (1956-1980). The Dow Science Center, renovated in 2018, includes the Gerstacker Science and Technology Suite and the Dow Digital Science Center (DDSC). These spaces offer academic student study space, 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 that had been gutted by a fire almost a decade earlier. The college also has a chapel to be named after Andison.
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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. The degree program or major you pursue is major. Psychology, General, is known as one of its top majors. 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. The college also offers a Master of Arts in Special Education with Learning Disabilities Endorsement. The student-to-faculty ratio at Alma is 12 students for every one faculty member.
The college operates on a 4-4-1 academic calendar, with 14-week terms in the fall and winter, and a four-week term in May. This May Term is often used for internships or travel classes. Alma College offers a number of domestic off-campus and internship programs in cities including Chicago, New York City, Philadelphia and Washington DC.
Student Life and Activities
Alma College provides a vibrant student life with a variety of activities and organizations. Alma athletics teams are nicknamed the Scots. In December 2021, the college announced the addition of women's wrestling, 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. The mascot of Alma College is Scotty. There is an "active Greek life" at Alma that "interacts heavily with the community and on campus." Everyone at Alma "tends to be over-involved" and participates in at least two school organizations or clubs.
Commitment to Accessibility and Support
Alma College remains committed to making higher education accessible, and provides personalized education. SAT/ACT scores are neither required nor recommended to apply. The best way to get to know Alma is to visit the campus and see the community in action. At Alma, it is easy to apply for admission. The college provides support, solutions, and encouragement every step of the way. Support systems such as a wellness center, tutoring, and a writing center guide students toward graduation, and a First-Year seminar course gives students a chance to take a class outside of their major.
Alma College and Michigan
Alma College plays a crucial role in advancing Michigan’s educational standards by offering a rigorous liberal arts curriculum combined with personalized attention and real-world experiences. Alma College offers a wide range of degree programs designed to meet the needs of Michigan’s evolving industries. The college’s programs are built with an emphasis on practical experience, ensuring students are ready to contribute to Michigan’s workforce upon graduation. Through the Center for College and Community Engagement (3CE), Alma College offers hands-on learning opportunities, such as internships, research projects and community engaged scholarship. As a result, Alma produces graduates who not only excel in their fields but also remain dedicated to enriching the communities they serve across the state.
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