History
By the early 1800s, the majority of Quakers in North Carolina were living in and around Guilford County. In 1837, they opened New Garden Boarding School, a coeducational institution intended to serve the children of the Religious Society of Friends. Over the years, it evolved into an institution that served young people of every religious affiliation or those with none at all. In 1888, New Garden Boarding School officially became Guilford College, making it the fourth-oldest degree-granting institution in NC. While it remains the only Quaker-founded college in the southeastern United States, Guilford is independent of formal ownership by any Quaker body. The school, its customs, administration and even its curriculum continue to be profoundly shaped and influenced by Quaker values, principles and testimonies. However, Guilford College looks beyond its North Carolina roots and Quaker heritage to welcome students from all regions and nations, faith traditions and life experiences.
Specialties
Our mission is to provide a transformative, practical and excellent liberal arts education for every student.