Columbia College - San Diego

Columbia College - San Diego, established in 1851, carries a rich historical legacy originating from its earliest incarnation as the Christian Female College. This institution holds the significant distinction of being the first women's college west of the Mississippi River to be chartered by a state legislature, receiving its charter from the Missouri Legislature. The community of Columbia strongly supported female education, especially given that the University of Missouri had not yet admitted women, creating a unique environment for the college's foundational growth.

From its earliest days, student life at Columbia College was structured and rigorous. A typical day in 1851 commenced at 6 a.m. with a morning walk, followed by worship in the chapel. Students dedicated their time to classes until late afternoon, culminating in a daily composition session. Evenings included dedicated study, chores, and a Bible lecture, fostering a holistic and disciplined approach to learning. The curriculum was robust for its time, encompassing subjects like arithmetic, ancient history, grammar, ancient geography, philosophy, the five books of Moses, and composition, laying a strong academic foundation.

The college's physical infrastructure evolved rapidly, with the purchase of Dr. James Bennett's estate in 1852, which was then formally dedicated as the Christian College campus. By 1856, the institution had grown considerably, proudly serving 150 students, of whom 85 were boarders, reflecting its increasing influence and capacity for residential education. Under the current leadership of President David Russell, this private college continues its mission with a strong endowment of $0.2 billion and a vibrant student body of 6,046, embodying its motto: Magnanimiter Crucem Sustine.