About
Distinctly Davidson
Davidson's primary purpose is to help students develop humane instincts and disciplined, creative minds for lives of leadership and service in an interconnected and rapidly changing world.
Davidson's Purpose
Davidson's Statement of Purpose drives everything we do. We believe that a Davidson education fosters humane instincts and disciplined and creative minds. We believe students flourish in our distinctively supportive community, where peers and mentors act with integrity and practice academic rigor. We believe education should not be tethered to economic circumstance. We strive to create an environment where each student lives this experience.
Curious, Passionate and Kind The Davidson Community
At Davidson College, you will be surrounded by an inclusive community of scholars who are smart, driven and kind. It is a community that encourages critical thinking, dignifies hard work, and cultivates enduring relationships. The heart of our community is our campus, which serves as home to 95 percent of our students. Our students explore their curiosities and passions in and outside of the classroom. Guided by a vital Honor Code, our community prides itself on respect and trust.
History & Traditions
Established in 1837 by Presbyterians of North Carolina, Davidson is a liberal arts college with a rich history and heritage. We've preserved the traditions that make the Davidson experience unique, while evolving to meet the needs of learners in an interconnected and rapidly changing world.
Our Campus, Our Town & Our Surroundings Imagine Yourself Here
Our students live with, hang out with, and share experiences with fellow students who have different backgrounds, beliefs and perspectives. They build relationships with engaged and inspiring professors who are leaders in their fields of study, all in a place worthy of its own acclaim. With beautiful greenery and a vibrant downtown, Davidson provides an intimate setting just a short drive from Charlotte—North Carolina’s largest city. Brick walkways and towering trees line our campus, while the Lake Campus, located on the largest man-made lake in North Carolina, offers recreational activities for the entire college community.
Athletics at Davidson
Davidson students are skilled in the classroom, on the court and on the field. More than 25 percent of our students are varsity athletes, and 60 percent of our students participate in intramural and club sports. Our scholar-athletes compete in NCAA Division 1 athletics in 21 varsity sports with support from a Wildcat coaching staff that is just as committed to Davidson's educational mission as they are to its athletic success.
