Letter from the President

Welcome to Augustana College. I am honored that you’ve chosen to pursue your education with us among the rolling hills rising above the Mississippi River in Rock Island, Illinois. Here you will find students and faculty coming together around our shared belief in the value of an education for the whole person -- intellect, character and spirit. 

Founded in 1860 by Swedish settlers, Augustana has a long history of graduating students who think critically, express themselves clearly and hold themselves to high ethical standards. With more than 90 majors, minors and areas of study; nearly 200 student organizations, clubs, performing arts and interest groups; 25 varsity sports teams and 14 fraternities and sororities, you’re sure to find something you love on our residential campus. 

As an Augustana student, you can explore the world, make an original contribution to your field of study through individual or group research, and take part in a once-in-a-lifetime internship. Augustana students are busy, but I’m confident you’ll find the balance of academics and other interests for which our college is known.

You may be surprised to hear that with all the opportunities you’ll have to learn, explore and engage with the world, Augustana still has small class sizes. Our 12-to-1 student/faculty ratio allows students to engage in the kind of shared inquiry that’s about more than research. It’s about what your work could mean to the world. It’s about asking what you could mean to the world. 

The Augustana students I’ve known form close ties with peers and professors that remain strong long after graduation. And based on their experience, it won’t be long until you begin to think of this place as home. 

No matter where you find your fit in our campus community, we remain dedicated to your personal, spiritual and educational growth.

Steven C. Bahls, President
309-794-7208
stevenbahls@augustana.edu