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About
Haverford College is a private liberal arts college located in Haverford, Pennsylvania, United States. Founded in 1833 by members of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) as a men's college, it was established to provide a Quaker education emphasizing moral and intellectual development. The college began admitting non-Quakers in 1849 and became coeducational in 1980, marking significant expansions in its inclusivity. Governed by the Corporation of Haverford College, which was formed in 1833 to administer Quaker education, the institution has evolved through internal restructurings to maintain its academic and administrative integrity while fostering a commitment to social justice, community engagement, and its Quaker heritage.
Haverford is renowned for its rigorous academic programs, small class sizes, and emphasis on the Honor Code, which promotes self-governance and ethical behavior among students. The college offers undergraduate degrees in over 30 majors across humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, with a strong record of graduates pursuing advanced degrees; from 2013 to 2023, Haverford ranked 6th among liberal arts colleges and 10th overall for the percentage of alumni earning doctorates (15.6%). Its Quaker heritage influences a curriculum and campus culture focused on peace, equality, and service, including initiatives like the 8th Dimension community service organization, which runs programs such as the Serendipity day camp for diverse children aged 6-13 from local areas, Philadelphia, and New Jersey.
The campus spans 216 acres and features the Haverford College Arboretum, established in 1974 based on an original 19th-century design, which includes a 2.2-mile nature trail, a pinetum with 300 conifer species, a duck pond, historic trees, sculptures, flower gardens, and Asian gardens. As a nonprofit educational institution, Haverford's operations are documented through IRS tax filings, highlighting its financial transparency and executive compensation details. The college's library origins trace back to 1833 with donations of key Quaker texts, underscoring its enduring historical roots.