Alma College

Alma College
Name	Alma College
Established	1886
Type	Private liberal arts college
Endowment	$120.4 million (2020)
President	Jeff Abernathy
City	Alma, Michigan
Country	United States
Campus	Rural, 128 acres
Students	1,400 (approx.)
Faculty	85 full-time
Colors	Maroon and cream
Nickname	Scots
Mascot	Scotty
Affiliations	Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)

Alma College. A private liberal arts institution in Alma, Michigan, founded in 1886 by Michigan Presbyterians. The college is known for its intensive academic programs, distinctive January term schedule, and strong emphasis on undergraduate research and experiential learning. Its campus, characterized by a blend of historic and modern architecture, serves a student body of approximately 1,400, who compete in NCAA Division III athletics as the Alma Scots.

History

The college was chartered by the Synod of Michigan of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America with the mission of providing a "classical and scientific education." Early leadership from figures like Augustus W. Cowles and support from the local community, including lumber baron Amasa Stone, were instrumental in its founding. Throughout the 20th century, it evolved from a small academy into a modern liberal arts college, surviving challenges like the Great Depression and expanding its curriculum. Key developments included the introduction of coeducation, the construction of new facilities like the Tyler-Van Dusen Campus Center, and the establishment of its signature January term in 1969, a focused month of intensive study.

Academics

The college offers over 50 majors and programs, organized through divisions such as the Department of Biology, the Department of Psychology, and the Department of Music. It operates on a 4-4-1 academic calendar, featuring the distinctive January term for focused study, internships, and international travel. Alma is recognized for high undergraduate research participation, with students regularly presenting at national conferences like the National Conference on Undergraduate Research. Notable programs include the Prentiss M. Brown Honors Program, the Center for Student Opportunity, and strong pre-professional tracks in fields like pre-medicine and pre-law. The college maintains a chapter of the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa honor society.

Campus

The 128-acre campus is located in Alma, Michigan, featuring a mix of historic and contemporary buildings. The central Academic Quadrangle is anchored by the Masonic Temple-inspired Hamilton Commons and the modern Clack Art Center. Key facilities include the Alan J. Stone Center for Recreation, the Dow Science Center, and the Remick Heritage Center, home to the Alma College Theatre and Department of Dance. Residential life is centered around several halls, including Brumm Hall, Newberry Hall, and the suite-style Wright Hall. The campus also encompasses the Alma College Ecological Station, a 200-acre natural area for field research.

Student life

Student life is active with over 80 student-led organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups like the Black Student Union, and a vibrant Greek life system with several national fraternities and sororities. Major annual events include the Highland Festival and Games, which celebrates the college's Scottish heritage, and Homecoming festivities. The college's Office of Student Life oversees programming, while the Kiltie Marching Band and Alma College Choir are prominent performing groups. Community engagement is emphasized through programs like the Alma College Community Engagement initiative and partnerships with local organizations in Gratiot County, Michigan.

Athletics

Alma College teams, nicknamed the Alma Scots, compete in the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) of NCAA Division III. The college fields 22 varsity sports, including football, basketball, soccer, and lacrosse. The football team plays at Bahlke Field at the Hoenes Stadium complex, while basketball and volleyball competitions are held in the Art Smith Arena. Notable athletic facilities include the Hogan Center for athletics and the Alma College Pool. The school's Scottish identity is showcased through its mascot, Scotty, and the Kiltie Marching Band performs at major athletic events.

Notable alumni

Alma College alumni have achieved distinction in diverse fields such as politics, science, arts, and business. In public service, they include former United States Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld and Michigan Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth Weaver. The arts are represented by Tony Award-winning theatrical producer Alyson Cambridge and Emmy Award-nominated filmmaker Larry Rippel. Scientific contributions come from researchers like National Institutes of Health scientist Dr. Francis Collins (former director). Other prominent graduates encompass business leaders like former Dow Chemical Company executive William S. Stavropoulos and professional athletes such as Major League Baseball player John Mayberry.

Category:Liberal arts colleges in Michigan Category:Universities and colleges affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Category:Educational institutions established in 1886 Category:NCAA Division III institutions Category:Buildings and structures in Gratiot County, Michigan