Memphis, September 25, 2025
News Summary
Rhodes College has marked its centennial anniversary in Memphis, celebrating its rich history as a significant liberal arts institution. Originally founded in Clarksville, Tennessee in 1848, the college moved to Memphis in 1925. Today, it enrolls around 2,000 students from over 60 countries, emphasizing community engagement and academic excellence. The college’s commitment to diversity and partnerships with major local institutions highlights its impact on Memphis’ cultural and educational landscape.
Memphis
Rhodes College has recently celebrated its centennial anniversary in Memphis, marking a significant milestone in its history as a prominent liberal arts college. Founded in 1848 in Clarksville, Tennessee, originally as the Masonic University of Tennessee, the college officially moved to Memphis in September 1925, under the leadership of Charles Diehl, president of Southwestern Presbyterian University. The transition marked a pivotal point for the college, which began with just 406 students and 16 faculty members.
Diehl, a visionary leader, played a crucial role in introducing women to the institution, making it co-educational at the start of World War I. He personally supervised the construction of the Memphis campus, which showcases a beautiful Collegiate Gothic architectural style. This design choice was rooted in Diehl’s belief that beautiful surroundings shape education and character, and today, the campus is recognized on numerous “most beautiful campuses” lists, characterized by its iconic limestone towers and Arkansas fieldstone walls.
As it stands today, Rhodes College enrolls around 2,000 students each year from 45 states and over 60 countries. Approximately 20% of the Class of 2025 consists of students from Memphis and Shelby County, reinforcing the college’s local impact and commitment to community engagement. Rhodes emphasizes a blend of academic excellence with active community participation, where students contribute to the local area by tutoring children, mentoring teens, and volunteering at various organizations, including the Souper Contact soup kitchen established in 1988.
Rhodes College features the Kinney Program, which connects students with opportunities in different fields, spanning arts, healthcare, and education. The college’s strategic location across from the Memphis Zoo and Overton Park provides ample opportunities for collaborations, and faculty and students conduct research in local green spaces and cultural sites, enhancing practical learning experiences.
The college has developed partnerships with major Memphis institutions, such as FedEx, AutoZone, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and Baptist Memorial Health Care, ensuring students gain substantial internship opportunities. Noteworthy alumni include U.S. Supreme Court Justice Abe Fortas, highlighting the college’s enduring legacy.
In addition to its academic prowess, Rhodes College plays an active role in Memphis’ cultural scene, allowing students in the arts and music to thrive. The institution has earned recognition as one of the top music business schools in the nation. As of today, Rhodes College boasts over 40 buildings, with 18 listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The most recent addition to the campus is the Paul Barrett, Jr. Library, built in 2005, reflecting the collegeโs commitment to marrying modern academic environments with its historical roots.
The meticulously planned architecture and landscaping of Rhodes College are designed to honor the institution’s rich history while aspiring for a bright future. The college has a longstanding tradition of admitting diverse students, starting with its first black students during Peyton Rhodesโs presidency from 1949 to 1965, and continues to embrace its mission of encouraging students to actively contribute to their communities beyond the classroom.
Conclusion
The partnership between Rhodes College and the city of Memphis has cultivated mutual growth over the past century, with each entity positively influencing the other.
FAQ
When did Rhodes College celebrate its centennial anniversary in Memphis?
Rhodes College recently celebrated its centennial anniversary in Memphis.
Where was Rhodes College founded?
Rhodes College was founded in 1848 in Clarksville, Tennessee, as the Masonic University of Tennessee.
How many students does Rhodes College enroll each year?
Currently, Rhodes College enrolls around 2,000 students each year from 45 states and over 60 countries.
What is the Kinney Program at Rhodes College?
The Kinney Program connects students with opportunities in various fields, including the arts, healthcare, and education.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1848 |
| Location of Founding | Clarksville, Tennessee |
| Current Enrollment | Approximately 2,000 students |
| Number of States Represented | 45 |
| Number of Countries Represented | Over 60 |
| Years of Co-education Initiated | Start of World War I |
| Architectural Style | Collegiate Gothic |
| Number of Buildings | Over 40 |
| Buildings Listed on National Register | 18 |
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Additional Resources
- Choose901: Rhodes College Celebrates 100 Years in Memphis
- Action News 5: 5 Star Stories – 175 Years Learning at Rhodes College
- Commercial Appeal: Rhodes College Palmer Hall Renamed
- Wikipedia: Rhodes College
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rhodes College
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
