Photo: Knox College. Retrieved from: myanchorhold.com
If there is one aspect of Knox College that every student can agree upon, it is that the College encourages free inquiry and the true meaning of higher learning. This is showcased in the vigorous program courses, the challenging curriculum and the assortment of seminars and workshops available throughout the school year. Both students and faculty maintain a strong community within the campus walls that enables them to become a powerful force in the outside world. Students uphold a strong tradition of maintaining a free-thinking environment that accepts and encourages students to challenge and question as they desire. Since each student has an individual learning style, the College strives to maintain this environment to ensure each student optimizes their college experience as much as possible.
Both inside or outside the classroom, Knox College students are surrounded by a strong community that inspires independent thinking and development. Many students pursue majors such as Business and Commerce Development – many even pursuing double majors to incorporate the infamous Psychology program into their studies as well. Knox College also maintains a high value for the Egalitarian spirit in honor of the founders – showcasing a strong sense of unity and a Zero Tolerance policy for anti-discrimination on campus.
School History
Founded in 1837, Knox College was established by social reformers that believed in the potential of all mankind, regardless of race, creed, religion or financial status. The founders shared a common opposition to slavery and intended to create the College in order to establish a stronger resource for students to obtain a quality education, making it easier for them to benefit their communities. The mission, goals and policies of the College were based on the Circular and Plan, originally written by George Washington Gale, later implemented by the founders.
Knox College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of colleges and Schools.
Providing social justice to local members of the community as well as attending students has always been a main priority at Knox. The history of the College’s involvement in community service stretches back to Abraham Lincoln, who denounced slavery for the first time right on the Knox college campus in 1858, during his 5th U.S. Senate debate. Since then, the debate team at Knox has developed into a nationally recognized achievement for students. However, the community involvement on and off-campus has been one of the main priorities at Knox, showcased by the active involvement that covers over 8,0000 community service hours each year.
Campus Life
Knox College offers students an eclectic assortment on campus activities and community involvement. The Distinctive Knox Programs enable students to excel in their social and academic achievements. First-year students are required to participate in the first-year preceptorial, which includes an extensive class discussion – opening the minds of young students to prepare them for their journey. Each of the programs and activities held on campus provide students with a supporting environment to truly flourish, incorporating skills such as communication, impartial judgment and freedom of thought.
Traditions at Knox College run deep from the roots of the foundation. Many students enjoy traditions such as the Bad Movie Night held on campus or the live performances held each year, avant-garde style. With over 100 student clubs and organizations to choose from, including academic interest groups such as the Chemistry and Physics teams. In addition to these academic based groups, Knox also offers a wide variety of programs such as the Model United Nations, Ultimate Frisbee team and the nationally known allied Blacks for Liberty and Equality.
Almost all of Knox College students live on campus, with the remaining students housing just outside the grounds in off-campus apartment and private housing complexes. Each of the housing facilities offers students a community-like setting and support system that is maintained by members of the Residence Life staff that remain in each building. Students are also invited to live in the fraternity houses available on campus, as well as the various theme houses such as Casa Latina, the Peterson House and the International House. Despite which facility you choose, all students that live on campus are entitled to free unlimited use of Internet connection directly from the Knox Ethernet Network.
Financial Aid
Financial aid is held at a high priority on campus, as over 98% of students receive funding assistance. The Office of Financial Aid is available to help students qualify for the various funding options including traditional Knox College Scholarships that are based on high school achievement and talent. Students are encouraged to also apply for scholarships awarded by third-party sources such as community and charity organizations. State grants such as the MAP program offers extensive funding opportunities for students. All students are encouraged to apply for the FAFSA funding application to ensure that all eligible funding sources are well utilized.
Many Knox students also take advantage of federal grants such as the Federal Pell Grants, more commonly referred to as FSEOG that enables low-income and need based students funding that does not require repayment. In honor of the founders, Knox College strives to ensure that all students are given the opportunity to attend college regardless of financial status. The College also offers individual funding based on Veteran and disability status as well. Students are encouraged to visit the Office of Financial aid before the start of each semester to ensure proper funding and assistance options.
