Bard College is a private liberal arts college located in Annandale-on-Hudson, New York. Founded in 1860 as St. Stephen's College, it later became Bard College in 1935. The college is known for its innovative approach to liberal arts education, emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, and commitment to social and civic engagement.
Here's an overview of key information about Bard College:
1. Academics: Bard College offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various disciplines, including arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The college is organized into divisions rather than traditional departments, encouraging interdisciplinary study and collaboration. Bard is particularly well-regarded for its programs in literature, creative writing, music, and performing arts.
2. Campus: The 1,000-acre campus in Annandale-on-Hudson is situated in the picturesque Hudson River Valley, offering a serene and inspiring environment. The campus features a mix of historic and contemporary architecture, with various facilities to support student life, including residence halls, libraries, and recreational centers.
3. Enrollment: Bard has a diverse student body, with around 2,000 undergraduate students and a small number of graduate students. The college is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse learning environment.
4. Athletics: Bard's athletic teams, known as the Raptors, compete in the NCAA Division III level and are members of the Liberty League. The college offers a variety of sports, including basketball, soccer, lacrosse, and volleyball.
5. Mascot: The college's mascot is the Raptor, symbolizing the spirit and pride of the Bard community.
6. Notable alumni: Bard College has produced numerous accomplished graduates over the years, including business leaders, artists, and writers. Some notable alumni include writer and journalist Ta-Nehisi Coates, musician and composer Steely Dan's Donald Fagen, and filmmaker Gia Coppola.
7. Community engagement: Bard College is dedicated to serving the local and global community through various outreach programs, public lectures, and cultural events. The college also partners with businesses and organizations for research, economic development, and community initiatives. Bard places a strong emphasis on social responsibility, sustainability, and community involvement as part of its mission.
8. Traditions: Bard College has a rich history and vibrant traditions, including the annual Spiegeltent Festival, which brings together music, theater, dance, and cabaret performances in a unique mirrored tent on the college's campus. Another significant tradition is the Senior Project, where undergraduate students are required to complete a substantial, original piece of work in their chosen field under the guidance of faculty advisors.
9. Bard College Conservatory of Music: The Bard College Conservatory of Music is a renowned music school offering undergraduate and graduate programs in various areas of music, including performance, composition, and conducting. The conservatory emphasizes the importance of a broad liberal arts education in addition to rigorous musical training.
10. Affiliated institutions: Bard College has partnerships with several other institutions, including the Bard Graduate Center for Studies in the Decorative Arts, Design, and Culture in New York City, and the Central European University in Budapest, Hungary. Bard also operates international programs, such as the Program in International Education (PIE) and the Bard Prison Initiative, which offers college courses and degrees to incarcerated individuals in the United States.
