Message from the President

As a friend of Hillsdale College, you know its old history.  You know the connection between its original mission and the founding principles of America.  You also know our recent history—how the College ran afoul of the federal government in the 1970s and how Hillsdale launched an unprecedented campaign to preserve its independence by promoting principles of freedom nationwide.  Today Hillsdale stands as a national beacon of independence.  It is hard work, but we have shown it can be done.  Now it is time to aim higher.

Beginning in January 2001, the College launched with its $400 million Founders Campaign an ambitious plan for Hillsdale’s future.  It is to be the finest liberal arts college in the land.  The reason for this is simple: above all other colleges in America, Hillsdale has remained true to its high mission.

Hillsdale’s Articles of Association, written in the decade before the Civil War, set for all of us a goal.  The first part of the goal is to provide out students “sound learning.”  Today we accomplish this, training not only our students’ minds, but also their characters.  The second part of the goal is to provide instruction in a way to perpetuate the “blessings of civil and religious liberty” and “intelligent piety” in the land.  I believe it is here, in the area of influence, that we are in a unique position to serve our country.  And I believe it is our duty to try.

Our 1844 mission statement sets forth a high standard.  Now, as then, the argument is the same: the continued success of the American experience in liberty requires education in the principles of liberty.  Today this argument is pressed upon us by necessity.  Principles detrimental to freedom and independence have become powerful in government and society, promoted above all in the American academy.  Hillsdale must rise to the challenge.

The Founders Campaign marks a critical juncture in the College’s 163 years of service to the nation.  Since its announcement, many on and off campus have contributed to our progress.  My gratitude is theirs.  I ask your help as we move forward in safeguarding the College’s independence, advancing “sound learning” for students of all ages, and serving the founding principles of our great country.

With warmest regards,

Larry P. Arnn