Earlham College welcomes the Class of 2029 and a new academic year

Earlham College opened its doors to a new academic year today, welcoming the Class of 2029, a group of accomplished, diverse, and motivated students from around the world.

With an average grade point average of 3.68 and nearly 30 percent in the Top 10 of their high school classes, among those students reporting on their application, this entering class is marked by both academic excellence and an impressive range of experiences.

“It is a privilege to welcome this remarkable class to Earlham,” said Jeff Perkins, Earlham’s new vice president of enrollment management, marketing, and communications. “They are joining a community that believes in them and in their potential to make an impact in the world. The possibilities here are extraordinary — from global study to research to real-world internships — and our commitment is to ensure they have the support and guidance to take full advantage of them.”

Students hail from 33 states and 14 countries. Forty-five percent of the class identifies as student-athletes, 39 percent are the first in their families to attend college, and 7 percent of the new class represent Earlham legacies, continuing the rich tradition of multiple generations choosing to study at Earlham.

President Paul Sniegowski called the day “one of the most joyful and inspiring moments of the year,” noting the energy that new students bring to campus.

“Each fall, I am reminded of how extraordinary our students are,” Sniegowski said. “The Class of 2029 has already demonstrated academic talent, leadership, and a commitment to their communities. I am excited to see how they will grow, discover, and contribute to the Earlham community — and how Earlham will, in turn, shape their journeys.”

Major renovations to Runyan Center and campus landscapes

Exciting renovations are underway at Runyan Center that will transform the student experience with completion expected before Homecoming and Reunion Weekend in October.

This project, which is supported by a $1 million major gift from Jeff May ’75 and Karen Crossen ’76, will serve as a catalyst for new points of connection for the Earlham community. It will result in dynamic, inviting outdoor spaces where current students, faculty, and staff can gather and bring greater vibrancy to campus, while also strengthening Runyan’s role as a welcoming first stop for prospective students and their families.

Richmond’s public radio station, WECI 91.5 FM, will also bring new energy to Runyan with the addition of a second studio on the building’s main lobby. The 61-year-old station, operated by Earlham students and employees and community members, will give visitors a front-row seat to live broadcasts — complete with a speaker streaming the station’s programming.

Former entry signs back on display

Two of Earlham’s historic stone gateway markers, which once framed the main entrance to campus, have been restored and placed in prominent locations: one at the end of the front circle and the other at Chase Stage, a revitalized gathering space for major outdoor events, including concerts, new student matriculation and commencement.

The front drive enhancements are supported by Ray ’84 and Sharon Ontko, while the redevelopment of Chase Stage is funded by Georges ’63 and Shorty Birenbaum ’61.

“These gifts make our campus more beautiful, more functional, and more inviting—creating spaces where connection and community can flourish,” said Kim Tanner, vice president for institutional advancement. “They are a powerful reminder that when alumni and friends invest in Earlham, they are helping today’s students thrive and shaping an experience that will inspire generations to come.”

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About Earlham College 

Earlham College and Earlham School of Religion foster a collaborative learning community that inspires and motivates students with transformative opportunities and experiences so they can become catalysts for good in a changing world. Located in Richmond, Indiana, Earlham is one of U.S. News & World Report’s Top 75 national liberal arts colleges and offers one of the top 20 classroom experiences in the nation, according to the Princeton Review.