Founded in 1819, Colgate is a small, highly selective residential liberal arts college for students of talent who are preparing for lives of leadership and productive citizenship. Drawing on centuries of tradition, Colgate is a distinctive, leading American university known for its intellectual rigor, world-class professors, a campus of stunning beauty, and alumni famously loyal to their alma mater. Colgate is an inclusive institution with diverse students, faculty, and staff. With a mission to nurture leaders who come from all societal groups, Colgate is committed to educating students about virtue and encouraging them to respond openly and sensitively to those different from themselves.