Earlham College

Earlham College is a highly selective, private liberal arts college located in Richmond, Indiana. Rooted in the traditions of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), the college is defined by its commitment to peace, social justice, and global engagement. It serves a diverse and international student body, offering a rigorous academic environment where students and faculty often interact on a first-name basis to foster a community of equals. The college emphasizes collaborative learning and undergraduate research, aiming to prepare students to be agents of positive change in the world.

The college was founded in 1847 by the Religious Society of Friends as a boarding school for Quaker adolescents. It was named after Earlham Hall in Norfolk, England, the home of the influential Quaker activist Joseph John Gurney. In 1859, it became one of the first coeducational institutions of higher learning in the United States, reflecting the Quaker principle of equality. Throughout the 20th century, the college gained national recognition for its strong science programs and its early commitment to internationalism, particularly its long-standing exchange programs with Japan. This history of pioneer social values and academic excellence has solidified its reputation as a leading liberal arts institution with a distinct moral compass.

Earlham College stands as a distinguished liberal arts institution that successfully marries Quaker values with global academic leadership. By providing guaranteed funding for experiential learning and fostering a campus culture of mutual respect and social responsibility, the college produces graduates who are intellectually curious and ethically grounded. Its legacy of equality, combined with its high-impact research opportunities and international focus, ensures that it remains a premier destination for students seeking a purpose-driven and globally-minded education.