Macalester College

{{Short description|Private college in Saint Paul, Minnesota, US}} {{redirect|Macalester}} {{distinguish|McMaster University}}{{Use American English|date=July 2025}} {{Use mdy dates|date=January 2025}} {{Infobox university | name = Macalester College | native_name = | image = Macalester seal hires.png | image_upright = .6 | image_alt = Macalester College seal | caption = | latin_name = | motto = ''Natura et Revelatio cœli gemini'' (Latin) | mottoeng = Nature and Revelation are twin sisters of heaven | established = {{start date and age|1874}} | closed = | type = Private liberal arts college | endowment = $921.6 million (2025)<ref>{{cite web |url=https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/nacubo1-nacubo-prd-dc8b/media/Nacubo/Documents/EndowmentFiles/2025-NCSE-Endowment-Market-Values-for-US-and-Canadian-Institutions-FINAL.xlsx |title=U.S. and Canadian 2025 NCSE Participating Institutions Listed by Fiscal Year 2025 Endowment Market Value |publisher=National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO) |access-date=February 19, 2026 |format=XLSX}}</ref> | budget = | president = Suzanne Rivera | vice-president = | provost = Lisa Anderson-Levy<ref>{{cite web|title=Provost|url=https://www.macalester.edu/provost/|website=Macalester College|access-date=July 19, 2021|archive-date=July 19, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210719170207/https://www.macalester.edu/provost/|url-status=live}}</ref> | vice_chancellor = | director = | academic_staff = 188 (full-time)<ref name=About>{{cite web |url=https://www.macalester.edu/about/#/0 |title=About Macalester |publisher=Macalester College |access-date=July 4, 2019 |archive-date=August 18, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190818193237/https://www.macalester.edu/about/#/0 |url-status=live }}</ref> | administrative_staff = | students = | undergrad = 2,068<ref>{{cite web | title=Quick Facts about Macalester Students | website=macalester.edu | date=September 18, 2025 | url=https://www.macalester.edu/institutional-research/wp-content/uploads/sites/515/Quick-Facts-Fall-2025.pdf | access-date=September 19, 2025}}</ref> | other = | city = Saint Paul, Minnesota | country = U.S. | coordinates = {{coord|44|56|21|N|93|10|4|W|type:edu|display=title,inline}} | campus = Urban (residential), {{convert|53|acre|ha}} | former_names = | athletics_affiliations = {{hlist|NCAA Division III - MIAC|CWPA}} | sports_nickname = Scots | mascot = Coo the Highland Cow<ref>{{cite web | title=Macalester is pleased to announce its newest Scot, Coo | website=News - | date=May 13, 2024 | url=https://www.macalester.edu/news/2024/05/macalester-is-pleased-to-announce-its-newest-scot-coo/ | access-date=May 14, 2024 | archive-date=May 13, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240513194226/https://www.macalester.edu/news/2024/05/macalester-is-pleased-to-announce-its-newest-scot-coo/ | url-status=live }}</ref> | website = {{URL|https://www.macalester.edu/| macalester.edu}} | footnotes = | logo = Macalester College Logo.png | logo_size = 200 | coor = | colors = {{color box|#01426A}} {{color box|#D44420}} Blue and orange | academic_affiliations = {{hlist|NAICU|ACM|COFHE|Minnesota Private College Council|ACTC|Space-grant}} }}

'''Macalester College''' ({{IPAc-en|m|ə|ˈ|k|æ|l|ɪ|s|t|ər}} {{respell|mə|KAL|iss|tər}}) is a private liberal arts college in Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States. Founded in 1874, Macalester is exclusively an undergraduate institution with an enrollment of 2,068 students in the fall of 2025.<ref>{{cite web | title=Quick Facts about Macalester Students | website=macalester.edu | date=September 18, 2025 | url=https://www.macalester.edu/institutional-research/wp-content/uploads/sites/515/Quick-Facts-Fall-2025.pdf | access-date=September 19, 2025}}</ref> The college has Scottish and Presbyterian roots and emphasizes internationalism, multiculturalism, and service to society.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Fiske|first1=Edward B.|title=Fiske Guide to Colleges 2020|date=June 15, 2019|publisher=Sourcebooks|isbn=978-1-4926-6494-9|edition=36th|location=Naperville, Illinois|pages=430–432|language=en}}</ref>

As of 2026, the college offers 38 majors, 40 minors, and 11 concentrations.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Academics - Macalester College |url=https://www.macalester.edu/academics/ |access-date=April 2, 2026 |language=en }}</ref> Students also have the option to design their own major. Macalester's sports teams compete in the NCAA Division III-level Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. The college's 60-acre main campus is bordered by Summit Avenue to the north and St. Clair Avenue to the south. The 300-acre Ordway Field Station, a nature reserve and research station, is on the outskirts of the Twin Cities, along the Mississippi River.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Katharine Ordway Natural History Study Area |url=https://www.macalester.edu/ordway/ |access-date=April 2, 2023 |language=en |archive-date=April 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401204310/https://www.macalester.edu/ordway/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

==History==

Macalester College was founded by Edward Duffield Neill in 1874 with help from the Presbyterian Church in Minnesota. Neill had served as a chaplain in the American Civil War and traveled to Minnesota Territory in 1849. He became connected politically and socially. He went on to found two local churches, was appointed the first Chancellor of the University of Minnesota, and became the state's first superintendent of public education. In leaving the University of Minnesota Board of Regents he desired to build a religious college affiliated with the Presbyterian Church that would also be open to members of other Christian churches.<ref name="Macalaster College">{{cite web|title=Macalaster College|url=http://www.macalester.edu/about/mission/history/|website=History|publisher=Macalester College|access-date=February 21, 2016|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303223357/http://www.macalester.edu/about/mission/history/|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:Winslow House.jpg|thumb|left|Charles Macalester donated the Winslow House in Minneapolis for use as the school's first building]] The college's original name was '''Baldwin College''' and it was affiliated with the Baldwin School, a Presbyterian secondary school.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Kiehl |first1=David |title=History of education in Minnesota |date=1905 |publisher=The Historical Society |page=4 |url=https://www.loc.gov/resource/lhbum.0866e_0388_0435/?sp=4 |access-date=December 3, 2019 |lccn=18010428 |archive-date=August 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220820143437/https://www.loc.gov/resource/lhbum.0866e_0388_0435/?sp=4 |url-status=live }}</ref> After a large donation from Charles Macalester, a prominent businessman and philanthropist from Philadelphia, the institution was renamed Macalester College.{{when|date=July 2025}} Macalester donated a hotel, the Winslow House, as the first permanent classroom building. With additional funding from the Presbyterian Church and its trustees, Macalester College opened for courses in 1885 with five teachers, six freshmen, and 52 preparatory students.<ref name="Macalaster College"/>

James Wallace joined the faculty in 1887 and later became president. He helped stabilize the college's finances and advance the institution.<ref name="Macalaster College"/> During his tenure, Macalester created a focus on a liberal arts curriculum. In 1897, Nellie A. Hope was the first woman appointed to the institution's newly organized music department.<ref name="Jackson">{{cite web |last1=Jackson |first1=Cheryl |title=Women as Leaders of Collegiate Bands, 1850-1980 - College Music Symposium |url=https://symposium.music.org/index.php/38/item/2150-women-as-leaders-of-collegiate-bands-1850-1980 |website=symposium.music.org |access-date=June 30, 2022 |language=en-gb |archive-date=September 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210927061200/https://symposium.music.org/index.php/38/item/2150-women-as-leaders-of-collegiate-bands-1850-1980 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Parker-1982">{{cite book |last1=Parker |first1=Linda Faye |title=Women in Music in St. Paul from 1898-1957 with Emphasis on the St. Paul Public Schools |date=1982 |publisher=University of Minnesota |page=56 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=gmzvjB8rhs4C |access-date=June 30, 2022 |language=en |archive-date=August 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220820143428/https://books.google.com/books?id=gmzvjB8rhs4C |url-status=live }}</ref>

In 2008, Macalester publicly launched a $150 million capital campaign. In 2009, construction was completed on Markim Hall, a new home for the Institute for Global Citizenship. Plans called for the building to qualify for Platinum certification under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) system, a building rating system devised by the U.S. Green Building Council that evaluates structures' sustainability and environmental impact. In 2012, Macalester opened its renovated and expanded Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center.<ref name="Macalaster College"/>

In 2020, Suzanne Rivera became the college's 17th president; she is the first woman and first Hispanic person to serve in the role.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.macalester.edu/news/2020/02/dr-suzanne-rivera-named-17th-president-of-macalester-college/|title=Suzanne Rivera Named 17th President of Macalester College|date=February 3, 2020 |access-date=February 3, 2020|archive-date=February 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200203175038/https://www.macalester.edu/news/2020/02/dr-suzanne-rivera-named-17th-president-of-macalester-college/|url-status=live}}</ref> That year, the college also marked the conclusion of its "Macalester Moment" campaign, which raised more than $126 million in endowed funds, planned gifts, and current-use support.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.macalester.edu/news/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2020/10/Macalester-Moment-campaign-map.pdf|title=The Macalester Moment: A Campaign for Access and Excellence|access-date=October 16, 2025|website=Macalester College|archive-date=July 9, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240709142815/https://www.macalester.edu/news/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2020/10/Macalester-Moment-campaign-map.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 2024, the college announced a new mascot, a Highland Cow named Coo.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.startribune.com/macalester-chooses-an-enduring-stubborn-and-hairy-creature-as-its-new-sports-mascot-a-cow/600365283|title=Macalester chooses an enduring, stubborn and hairy creature as its new sports mascot: A cow.|access-date=December 17, 2025|website=The Minnesota Star Tribune|archive-date=July 23, 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250723142519/https://www.startribune.com/macalester-chooses-an-enduring-stubborn-and-hairy-creature-as-its-new-sports-mascot-a-cow/600365283|url-status=live}}</ref>

In September 2025, Macalester announced the Macalester Tuition Promise financial aid initiative. Beginning with students applying to start their studies at Macalester in fall 2026, the college will offer a full-tuition scholarship to all admitted US students with a family income of $100,000 or less (and typical financial assets).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.macalester.edu/news/2025/09/macalester-announces-new-macalester-tuition-promise-financial-aid-initiative/|title=Macalester announces new Macalester Tuition Promise financial aid initiative|access-date=April 3, 2026|website=Macalester College}}</ref>

Construction is underway for the college's latest development, a new residence hall and welcome center in line with the college's strategic plan, "Imagine, Macalester".<ref>{{Cite web |title=Macalester's Strategic Planning Process |url=https://www.macalester.edu/strategic-plan/ |access-date=2026-05-07 |website=Imagine, Macalester - Just another Macalester College Sites site |language=en}}</ref> Construction is expected to be completed by the fall of 2027.<ref>{{Cite web |title=New Residence Hall and Welcome Center |url=https://www.macalester.edu/residential-life/new-residence-hall-and-welcome-center/ |access-date=2026-05-07 |language=en}}</ref>

==Campus== {{Infobox NRHP | name =Old Main, Macalester College | nrhp_type = | image = Old Main-Macalester.jpg | caption = Old Main | location = 1600 Grand Ave.<br />Saint Paul, Minnesota | nearest_city = | area = | built = | architect =William H. Willcox | architecture = Romanesque Revival | added = August 16, 1977 | visitation_num = | visitation_year = | refnum = 77000765 | mpsub = | governing_body = }}

===Sustainability=== thumb|Weyerhaeuser Hall administration building In the Sustainable Endowments Institute's 2011 College Sustainability Report Card, Macalester received an overall grade of A−, earning it recognition as an "Overall Campus Sustainability Leader".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.greenreportcard.org/report-card-2011/schools/macalester-college |title=Macalester College |date=2011 |work=Green Report Card |access-date=August 13, 2015 |archive-date=August 16, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130816024217/http://www.greenreportcard.org/report-card-2011/schools/macalester-college |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2011, The Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) awarded Macalester a Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS) Silver Rating in recognition of its sustainability achievements.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.macalester.edu/news/2011/07/macalester-receives-stars-silver-rating-for-sustainability |title=Macalester Receives STARS Silver Rating for Sustainability |publisher=Macalester College |date=July 25, 2011 |access-date=August 6, 2011 |archive-date=October 11, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111011201145/http://www.macalester.edu/news/2011/07/macalester-receives-stars-silver-rating-for-sustainability |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2024, Macalester won a Gold STARS rating and was ranked #2 among baccalaureate institutions.<ref>{{Cite web |last=afrey1 |date=2024-10-30 |title=Macalester ranks #2 in Sustainable Campus Index - News |url=https://www.macalester.edu/news/2024/10/macalester-ranks-in-sustainable-campus-index/ |access-date=2026-05-07 |website=News - |language=en}}</ref> In 2026, Macalester was named to the Princeton Review's Guide to Green Schools, ranked 18^th of 50.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2026 Guide to 388 Green Colleges |url=https://www.princetonreview.com/college-rankings/green-guide |access-date=2026-05-07 |website=www.princetonreview.com |language=en}}</ref>

Many student organizations focus on sustainability, including Macalester Conservation and Renewable Energy Society (MacCARES), Minnesota Public Interest Research Group (MPIRG), Mac Bike, Macalester Urban Land and Community Health (MULCH), Green Athletics at Mac, and Outing Club.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.macalester.edu/sustainability/students/studentorgs.htm|archiveurl=https://archive.today/20130801090507/http://www.macalester.edu/sustainability/students/studentorgs.htm|title=Sustainability – Student Organizations<!-- Bot generated title -->|archivedate=August 1, 2013}}</ref>

In April 2003, Macalester installed a 10&nbsp;kW Urban Wind Turbine on campus thanks to that year's senior class gift donating the installation cost and Xcel Energy donating the tower and turbine.<ref name="MACcares Wind Turbine Projects">{{cite web | title =MACcares Wind Turbine Projects | publisher =Macalester College | url =http://www.macalester.edu/maccares/turbine.htm | access-date =July 5, 2009 | archive-date =September 3, 2009 | archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20090903194353/http://www.macalester.edu/maccares/turbine.htm | url-status =live }}</ref> Other projects include the Eco-House, a student residence with a range of green features and research opportunities; a rain garden that prevents stormwater from running off into groundwater, a bike share program, and a veggie co-op.<ref name="2008 College Sustainability Report Card">{{cite web | title =Macalester Sustainability Tour | publisher =Macalester College | url =http://www.macalester.edu/sustainability/sustainabilitymap.pdf | access-date =July 5, 2009 | archive-date =November 23, 2008 | archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20081123012846/http://www.macalester.edu/sustainability/SustainabilityMap.pdf | url-status =live }}</ref> The Class of 2008 designated its senior class gift to a Sustainability Fund to support initiatives to improve environmental sustainability on campus and in the greater community.<ref name="2008 College Sustainability Report Card" /> On January 1, 2013, Macalester started campus composting.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.macalester.edu/sustainability/ |title=Sustainability |work=Macalester College |access-date=August 13, 2015 |archive-date=August 10, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150810184348/http://www.macalester.edu/sustainability/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In September 2009, Macalester set a goal to become carbon-neutral by 2025 and Zero-Waste by 2020.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.macalester.edu/whatshappening/press/2010/September17SustainabilityPlan.html |title=Macalester College to be Carbon Neutral by 2025 |publisher=Macalester College |date=September 17, 2009 |access-date=August 6, 2011 |archive-date=June 7, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110607060511/https://www.macalester.edu/whatshappening/press/2010/September17SustainabilityPlan.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The school is a signatory to the Talloires Declaration and the American College and University President's Climate Commitment, the latter obligating the college to work toward carbon neutrality.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.macalester.edu/sustainability/policy/policymain.html|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130705182638/http://www.macalester.edu/sustainability/policy/policymain.html|title=Sustainability – Policies<!-- Bot generated title -->|archivedate=July 5, 2013}}</ref> On April 18, 2012, President Brian Rosenberg signed the "Commitment to Sustainable Practices of Higher Education Institutions on the Occasion of the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development".<ref>On April 18, 2012, President Brian Rosenberg signed the "Commitment to Sustainable Practices of Higher Education Institutions on the Occasion of the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development"</ref> In 2017, after the Trump administration withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Agreement, Macalester signed the We Are Still In declaration, joining more than 3,800 leaders across different sectors of the U.S. economy.<ref>{{Cite web |title=We Are Still In Signatory Macalester College |url=https://www.wearestillin.com/organization/macalester-college}}</ref>

In 2009, Macalester opened Markim Hall, a LEED Platinum building that houses the school's Institute for Global Citizenship.<ref>[http://www.macalester.edu/igc/markimhall/] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100830062438/http://www.macalester.edu/igc/markimhall/|date=August 30, 2010}}</ref> The building uses 45% less water and 75% less energy than a typical Minnesota building. Macalester is planning to remodel its Music, Theater, and Art buildings and is designing them to Minnesota B3 Guidelines.{{cn|date=April 2026}}

Recent sustainability efforts have highlighted the intersection of social justice and climate change at Macalester, as well as the potential conflict between its on-campus sustainability and its investments. Since 2012, students have criticized the college for making significant endowment investments in fossil fuel companies, including direct investments in oil and gas private partnerships. The student organization Fossil Free Mac<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://fossilfreemac.com/|title=Fossil Free Mac|website=fossilfreemac.com|language=en|access-date=June 11, 2018|archive-date=June 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612135926/http://fossilfreemac.com/|url-status=live}}</ref> has led a campaign urging the college to divest from fossil fuel companies. The campaign initially proposed full endowment divestment from the top 200 publicly traded fossil fuel companies, which Macalester's Social Responsibility Committee rejected in 2015.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://themacweekly.com/2015/05/src-does-not-recommend-fossil-fuel-divestment/|title=SRC does not recommend fossil fuel divestment - The Mac Weekly|date=May 1, 2015|work=The Mac Weekly|access-date=June 11, 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=June 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612140253/https://themacweekly.com/2015/05/src-does-not-recommend-fossil-fuel-divestment/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.chronicle.com/article/For-College-Endowments/137939|title=For College Endowments, Ethical Stands Can Be Complicated|date=March 18, 2013|work=The Chronicle of Higher Education|access-date=June 11, 2018|archive-date=June 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612144001/https://www.chronicle.com/article/For-College-Endowments/137939|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2018, the Social Responsibility Committee unanimously approved a revised Fossil Free Mac proposal<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://fossilfreemac.com/proposal.pdf|title=Proposal by Fossil Free Macalester to the Social Responsibility Committee to end Macalester College's Oil and Gas Private Partnership Investments|date=November 27, 2017|access-date=June 11, 2018|archive-date=June 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612140102/http://fossilfreemac.com/proposal.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> advocating a moratorium on the college's direct investment partnerships with oil and gas companies, which the board of trustees considered.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://fossilfreemac.com/SRCReport.pdf|title=SRC Report on Oil & Gas Moratorium|date=March 30, 2018|access-date=June 11, 2018|archive-date=June 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612143334/http://fossilfreemac.com/SRCReport.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://themacweekly.com/2018/04/divestment-proposal-recommended-by-src-will-go-to-trustees/|title=Divestment proposal recommended by SRC, will go to Trustees|last=Catlin|first=Hannah|date=April 19, 2018|work=The Mac Weekly|access-date=June 11, 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=June 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612141240/https://themacweekly.com/2018/04/divestment-proposal-recommended-by-src-will-go-to-trustees/|url-status=live}}</ref> The divestment campaign had significant support from the student body, student government, faculty, staff, and alumni.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://mission-investor.com/2013/05/11/macalester-alumni-open-letter-supporting-fossil-fuel-divestment/|title=Macalester Alumni Open Letter Supporting Fossil Fuel Divestment|date=May 11, 2013|work=Mission Investor|access-date=June 11, 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=June 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612140133/https://mission-investor.com/2013/05/11/macalester-alumni-open-letter-supporting-fossil-fuel-divestment/|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2021, the Board of Trustees announced its decision to divest of all dedicated, publicly traded oil and gas assets and to adopt a college investment policy that prohibits new investments solely in oil and gas assets.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bryan |date=2021-08-23 |title=Macalester College Board of Trustees Announces Policies That Reduce Oil and Gas Investments - News - News - Macalester College |url=https://www.macalester.edu/news/2021/08/macalester-college-board-of-trustees-announces-policies-that-reduce-oil-and-gas-investments/,%20https://www.macalester.edu/news/2021/08/macalester-college-board-of-trustees-announces-policies-that-reduce-oil-and-gas-investments/ |access-date=2025-12-03 |language=en-US}}</ref>

"Imagine, Macalester", the college's strategic plan approved in 2022, has "Transforming our Physical Environment" as a core pillar, with environmental sustainability as a key aspect of that goal.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Macalester College |date=October 7, 2022 |title=Imagine, Macalester Strategic Plan |url=https://www.macalester.edu/strategic-plan/wp-content/uploads/sites/348/2022/10/Imagine-Macalester-Strategic-Plan-October-2022.pdf}}</ref> Recent developments, including the construction of a residence hall powered by geothermal energy and solar panels, are steps toward the college's goal of decarbonization.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Decarbonization Efforts & Goals |url=https://www.macalester.edu/sustainability/decarbonization-efforts-goals/ |access-date=2026-05-07 |language=en}}</ref> The project will add Macalester to a growing list of institutions adopting geothermal energy to power their campuses. Macalester plans to expand geothermal power to existing buildings after the new hall is built.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Yvette |date=2026-05-11 |title=New Macalester residence hall to bring clean energy innovation to a dense urban setting |url=https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-college-campuses-lead-the-way-on-geothermal-innovation/601828798 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260513170805/https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-college-campuses-lead-the-way-on-geothermal-innovation/601828798 |archive-date=2026-05-13 |access-date=2026-05-15 |language=en}}</ref>

==Academics==

===Reputation and rankings=== {{Infobox US university ranking <!-- Liberal arts rankings -->| = | USNWR_LA = 28 | Wamo_LA = 4 }}

In 2025, ''Washington Monthly'' ranked Macalester 4th among 190 liberal arts colleges in the U.S. based on its contribution to the public good as measured by social mobility, research, and promoting public service.<ref>{{cite web |title=2025 Liberal Arts College Rankings |url=https://washingtonmonthly.com/2025-college-guide/liberal-arts-colleges-ranking/ |website=washingtonmonthly.com |access-date=2025-08-28 |archive-date=August 24, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250824232246/https://washingtonmonthly.com/2025-college-guide/liberal-arts-colleges-ranking/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''U.S. News & World Report'' ranked Macalester the 28th-best liberal arts college in the U.S., 10th for "Best Undergraduate Teaching" and 31st for "Best Value" liberal arts college in 2026.<ref>{{cite web |title=Macalester College Overall Rankings |url=https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/macalester-college-2358/overall-rankings |access-date=September 28, 2025 |magazine=U.S. News & World Report |archive-date=April 26, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220426015824/https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/macalester-college-2358/overall-rankings |url-status=live }}</ref> Macalester ranked 24th out of 378 colleges in Niche's 2026 "Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America" and 26th on its "Best Small Colleges in America" list.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2026 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America |url=https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-liberal-arts-colleges/ |access-date=September 28, 2025 |website=Niche |language=en |archive-date=November 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211125224623/https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-liberal-arts-colleges/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=2026 Best Small Colleges in America |url=https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-small-colleges/ |access-date=July 27, 2024 |website=Niche |language=en |archive-date=August 24, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170824093202/https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-small-colleges/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Among other Niche rankings, Macalester received an A+ in academics<ref>{{Cite web |title=Macalester College |url=https://www.niche.com/colleges/macalester-college/ |access-date=September 28, 2025 |website=Niche |language=en |archive-date=October 22, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251022181652/https://www.niche.com/colleges/macalester-college/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and was named Minnesota's most diverse college.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2026 Most Diverse Colleges in Minnesota |url=https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/most-diverse-colleges/s/minnesota/ |access-date=September 28, 2025 |website=Niche |language=en |archive-date=December 2, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211202075558/https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/most-diverse-colleges/s/minnesota/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''Money'' magazine selected Macalester as a "Best College" from a pool of over 2,400 as evaluated by quality of education, affordability, and outcomes.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Macalester College, Minnesota - Complete Profile, Rankings and Data |url=https://money.com/best-colleges/profile/macalester-college/ |access-date=September 28, 2025 |website=Money |language=en |archive-date=October 14, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251014190254/https://money.com/best-colleges/profile/macalester-college/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Best Colleges Methodology |url=https://money.com/best-colleges/methodology/ |access-date=September 28, 2025 |website=Money |language=en |archive-date=October 3, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251003220327/https://money.com/best-colleges/methodology/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Macalester was named one of the ''Hidden Ivies ''based on academics, admissions process, financial aid, and student experience.<ref>Greene, Howard and Greene, Mathew, The Hidden Ivies, 2009.</ref> Its 2024 graduates' most popular majors were:<ref>{{cite web |url=https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?q=Macalester&s=all&id=173902#programs |website=nces.ed.gov |publisher=U.S. Dept of Education |title=Macalester College |access-date=October 7, 2025 |archive-date=July 16, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250716014552/https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?q=macalester&s=all&id=173902#programs |url-status=live }}</ref> ::* Social Sciences (113) ::* Biological and Biomedical Sciences (68) ::* Computer & Information Sciences (50) ::* Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies (45) ::* Physical Sciences (39) ::* Mathematics and Statistics (39)

===Admissions=== Macalester is considered "most selective" by the ''U.S. News & World Report'' rankings.<ref>{{Citation |title=Macalester College |date=2026-05-07 |work=Wikipedia |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Macalester_College&oldid=1353012745 |access-date=2026-05-12 |language=en}}</ref> For the Class of 2030, Macalester received 10,048 applications and accepted 26% of applicants.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-12-12 |title=Macalester Class Profile |url=https://www.macalester.edu/admissions/admitted-students/class-profile/ |access-date=2026-05-12 |website=Admissions & Aid - At Macalester, our mission is to prepare students for lives of meaning and purpose. Students here receive unparalleled support and mentorship as they discover their place in the world and learn how to become agents of change. |language=en}}</ref>

thumb|Old Main Building at Macalester College in fall

===Faculty=== Macalester has 198 full-time faculty, 91% of whom have a doctorate or the highest degree in their field.<ref name="Instructional">{{cite web|title=Macalaster College: Instructional Faculty|url=https://www.macalester.edu/institutional-research/wp-content/uploads/sites/515/Fall-2024-Faculty-Counts-CDS-section-I.pdf|website=Macalester College|access-date=September 29, 2025|archive-date=May 25, 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250525160503/https://www.macalester.edu/institutional-research/wp-content/uploads/sites/515/Fall-2024-Faculty-Counts-CDS-section-I.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> Thirty-nine percent of faculty are international or U.S. citizens of color.<ref name="Instructional" /> The student-faculty ratio is 10:1<ref name="Instructional" /> and the average class size 17.<ref>{{cite web |title=5 Things to Know About Macalester |url=https://www.macalester.edu/admissions/5-things-to-know-about-macalester/ |website=Macalester College |access-date=September 29, 2025 |archive-date=June 13, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250613022456/https://www.macalester.edu/admissions/5-things-to-know-about-macalester/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Academic program=== Macalester offers over 800 courses each academic year, providing pathways to 39 majors, 40 minors, and 11 concentrations.<ref name=":0" /> Students may also design their own interdisciplinary majors.<ref name="catalog.macalester.edu">{{cite web|url=http://catalog.macalester.edu/content.php?catoid=10&navoid=1013|title=The Academic Program|work=Macalester College|access-date=August 13, 2015|archive-date=September 10, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150910144846/http://catalog.macalester.edu/content.php?catoid=10&navoid=1013|url-status=live}}</ref> Courses are available in the physical sciences, humanities, mathematics and computer sciences, arts, social sciences, foreign languages, classics, several interdisciplinary fields, and pre-professional programs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://catalog.macalester.edu/content.php?catoid=10&navoid=1023|title=The Curriculum|work=Macalester College|access-date=August 13, 2015|archive-date=September 10, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150910101236/http://catalog.macalester.edu/content.php?catoid=10&navoid=1023|url-status=live}}</ref> Pre-professional programs includes pre-law, pre-medical, a cooperative architecture program, and a cooperative engineering program.<ref name=PPPP>{{cite web|url=http://catalog.macalester.edu/content.php?catoid=10&navoid=1024#Pre-Professional_and_Professional_Programs|title=Special Programs|work=Macalester College|access-date=August 13, 2015|archive-date=September 10, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150910150105/http://catalog.macalester.edu/content.php?catoid=10&navoid=1024#Pre-Professional_and_Professional_Programs|url-status=live}}</ref> The most popular majors (in order) are economics, mathematics, biology, psychology, and political science.<ref name=About/>

The academic calendar at Macalester is divided into a 14-week fall semester (September to December) and a 14-week spring semester (January to May).<ref name="catalog.macalester.edu"/> All courses are offered for semester credit. Most courses are offered for four semester credits, but the amount of credit may vary.<ref name="catalog.macalester.edu"/>

During January, Macalester students may earn up to two semester credits in independent projects, internships, or Macalester-sponsored off-campus courses.<ref name="catalog.macalester.edu"/> They may also earn up to eight semester credits in independent study during the summer through independent projects or internships.<ref name="catalog.macalester.edu"/>

===Study away=== Studying away at Macalester is managed by the Center for Study Away, and it is called study away (as opposed to study abroad) because there are options to study away domestically.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About |url=https://www.macalester.edu/study-away/about/ |access-date=2025-09-22 |language=en |archive-date=October 9, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251009150249/https://www.macalester.edu/study-away/about/ |url-status=live }}</ref> About 60% of Macalester students study away before graduation.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.macalester.edu/internationalcenter/statistics/|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130705202717/http://www.macalester.edu/internationalcenter/statistics/| title=Statistics – International Center – Macalester College<!-- Bot generated title -->|archivedate=July 5, 2013}}</ref> Seven departments require off-campus study for completion of a major.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.macalester.edu/internationalcenter/academicintegration/|title=Academic Integration|work=Macalester College|access-date=August 13, 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150429092507/http://www.macalester.edu/internationalcenter/academicintegration/|archive-date=April 29, 2015}}</ref>

Macalester maintains a list of over 100 approved semester-long study away programs, which is reviewed annually.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Choose a Program |url=https://www.macalester.edu/study-away/choose-a-program/ |access-date=2026-05-12 |language=en}}</ref> In addition to meeting the standards of a high-quality liberal arts education, programs are expected to provide opportunities to develop intellectual independence and self-awareness, build cultural understanding and/or language skills, and enhance learning through applied experience and curricular opportunities not available on Macalester's campus. Approved programs include three taught by Macalester faculty, a small group of exchange programs with affiliation agreements, some options to enroll at other universities, and programs run by provider educational institutions or organizations that manage and host students on site. The Center for Study Away also allows students to propose their own study away or direct-enroll programs for approval by the center. Additionally, Macalester offers courses on campus with an embedded short-term study away component to enhance place-based, experiential student learning.

===Academic consortia memberships=== thumb|Humanities Building<ref>{{cite web |url=http://themacweekly.com/2013/10/humanities-building-to-be-renamed-neill-hall-founder-first-president-recognized-on-campus/ |title=Humanities building to be renamed Neill Hall: Founder, first President recognized on campus |first=Emily |last=Gustafson |date=October 11, 2013 |work=themacweekly.com |access-date=August 13, 2015 |archive-date=October 16, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016232813/http://themacweekly.com/2013/10/humanities-building-to-be-renamed-neill-hall-founder-first-president-recognized-on-campus/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

Macalester is a member of the Associated Colleges of the Twin Cities (ACTC), a consortium of five liberal arts colleges in Saint Paul and Minneapolis formed to develop cooperative programs and offer cross-registration to their students. The other members are the University of St. Thomas, Augsburg University, Hamline University, and St. Catherine University. In addition to over 800 courses available on campus, Macalester students have access to all courses offered through the consortium without paying additional tuition.{{cn|date=April 2026}}

=== "Imagine, Macalester" strategic plan === In 2021, Macalester embarked on its new strategic planning process, "Imagine, Macalester".<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-02-16 |title=Imagine, Macalester Strategic Plan |url=https://www.macalester.edu/strategic-plan/approved-plan/ |access-date=2026-05-15 |website=Imagine, Macalester - Just another Macalester College Sites site |language=en}}</ref> Claiming to be operating from a position of strength, college leadership recognized significant headwinds in the higher education industry demanding dynamic planning. This included industry-wide pressures such as rising costs pushing tuition rates up and fewer students applying to four-year colleges<ref>{{Cite news |last=Marcus |first=Jon |date=2025-01-08 |title=A looming 'demographic cliff': Fewer college students and ultimately fewer graduates |url=https://www.npr.org/2025/01/08/nx-s1-5246200/demographic-cliff-fewer-college-students-mean-fewer-graduates |access-date=2026-05-15 |work=NPR |language=en}}</ref> as well as specific pressures such as underperformance in alumni fundraising compared to peer schools.

College leadership formed a group of "Strategic Planning Champions",<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-11-12 |title=Strategic Planning Champions |url=https://www.macalester.edu/strategic-plan/background-information/strategic-planning-champions/ |access-date=2026-05-15 |website=Imagine, Macalester - Just another Macalester College Sites site |language=en}}</ref> representing students, staff, faculty, and alumni groups. The group worked to engage their constituencies to better inform the final plan. The strategic planning committee unveiled its draft plan in the summer of 2022, and the board of trustees approved it in October.

=== New mascot and branding === In 2024, as part of Macalester's 150^th anniversary celebration and in response to strategic planning goals, the college released a new logo, mascot, and branding concept heavily influencing its athletics presence.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-01-16 |title=New Mascot and Athletics Visual Identity |url=https://www.macalester.edu/150/new-mascot-and-athletics-visual-identity/ |access-date=2026-05-15 |website=Macalester at 150 Years - |language=en}}</ref> After an intensive community engagement process, the college selected the Highland Cow, nicknamed "Coo", as its new mascot. The athletics teams remain known as the Scots but are represented by Coo. The new mascot was part of a complete overhaul of the athletics branding, guided by a set of principles seeking to unify the community and modernize the athletics department's visual identity.

==Tuition and financial aid== Each admitted student receives a financial aid package that meets 100% of demonstrated need for financial aid.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.macalester.edu/admissions/financialaid/|title=Financial Aid & Tuition|work=Macalester College|access-date=April 2, 2026}}</ref> Starting with students who begin study in fall 2026, domestic students with family income below $100,000 and typical assets will receive a full-tuition scholarship.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.macalester.edu/financial-aid/policies/macalester-tuition-promise/|title=Macalester Tuition Promise|work=Macalester College|access-date=April 2, 2026}}</ref>

59% of Macalester students receive need-based grants from the college.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.macalester.edu/admissions/financialaid/|title=Financial Aid & Tuition|work=Macalester College|access-date=April 2, 2026}}</ref> The average financial aid award for full-time students with demonstrated need in 2025–26 was $67,609, and 90% of full-time students received financial aid.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.macalester.edu/financial-aid/|title=Financial Aid Office|work=Macalester College|access-date=April 2, 2026}}</ref> Macalester's comprehensive tuition, room, and board fee for the 2026–27 academic year was $92,154.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.macalester.edu/financial-aid/tuition/|title=Tuition and Fees|work=Macalester College|access-date=April 2, 2026}}</ref>

==Student life==

===Student body=== Macalester maintains a high international enrollment for its institutional type as a percentage of its student body.<ref>{{cite web|title=US News Best Colleges 2015|url=http://colleges.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/best-colleges/rankings/national-liberal-arts-colleges/most-international|website=Most International Students: National Liberal Arts Colleges|publisher=US News Corp|access-date=February 21, 2016|archive-date=July 17, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140717053047/http://colleges.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/best-colleges/rankings/national-liberal-arts-colleges/most-international|url-status=live}}</ref> As of fall 2025, international students constituted 16% of the student body.<ref>{{cite web | title=Quick Facts about Macalester Students | website=macalester.edu | date=September 18, 2025 | url=https://www.macalester.edu/institutional-research/wp-content/uploads/sites/515/Quick-Facts-Fall-2025.pdf | access-date=September 19, 2025}}</ref> Its 2,068 students come from 49 U.S. states, Washington D.C., American Samoa, Puerto Rico, the Northern Mariana Islands and 107 countries; 40% of the U.S. student body are students of color.<ref>{{cite web | title=Quick Facts about Macalester Students | website=macalester.edu | date=September 18, 2025 | url=https://www.macalester.edu/institutional-research/wp-content/uploads/sites/515/Quick-Facts-Fall-2025.pdf | access-date=September 19, 2025}}</ref> Macalester has a strong relationship with the United World Colleges,<ref>{{Cite web |title=United World Colleges |url=https://uwc.org/ |access-date=2026-05-12 |website=United World Colleges |language=en-GB}}</ref> a network of International Baccalaureate schools designed for students interested in gaining leadership and cross-cultural skills in a global context.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Peace education |url=https://uwc.org/peace-education/ |access-date=2026-05-12 |website=United World Colleges |language=en-GB}}</ref> Since 1986, Macalester has welcomed UWC students, with 18 UWC campuses represented at Macalester and over 500 UWC alumni who have graduated from Macalester.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-12-13 |title=United World College and Mac |url=https://www.macalester.edu/admissions/international/uwc-at-mac/ |access-date=2026-05-12 |website=Admissions & Aid - At Macalester, our mission is to prepare students for lives of meaning and purpose. Students here receive unparalleled support and mentorship as they discover their place in the world and learn how to become agents of change. |language=en}}</ref>

[[File:Minneapolis, MN Town Hall (49640619016).jpg|thumb|Elizabeth Warren speaking at Shaw Field during her 2020 presidential campaign]]

===Civic engagement=== Macalester is one of 360 institutions that have been awarded the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification for excellence in civic engagement. The college encourages student dialogue by bringing in speakers, hosting an International Roundtable to bring distinguished international scholars to discuss emerging global issues, and hosting collective meetings such as Women of Color.<ref name=ceinventory>{{cite web |url=http://www.macalester.edu/cec/about/statisticsreports/ceinventory.pdf |title=Civic Engagement Inventory |work=Macalester College |date=September 2003 |access-date=August 13, 2015 |archive-date=September 7, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150907181047/http://www.macalester.edu/cec/about/statisticsreports/ceinventory.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>

Macalester links academic learning to community involvement. During the 2024-25 academic year, 45 professors in 24 Macalester departments offered 68 courses with community engagement components.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Academic Engagement |url=https://www.macalester.edu/community-engagement/academiccivicengagement/ |access-date=2026-05-12 |language=en}}</ref> In 2011–12, 16 departments offered 59 courses with civic engagement components.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.macalester.edu/cec/academiccivicengagement/|title=Academic Civic Engagement|work=Macalester College|access-date=August 13, 2015|archive-date=August 10, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150810075551/http://www.macalester.edu/cec/academiccivicengagement/|url-status=live}}</ref> Each year approximately 200 students complete internships, 65% of which are in the nonprofit sector, schools, government, or the arts.<ref name=ceinventory /> Macalester also allows students to earn their work-study financial aid award while working at a local nonprofit or elementary school.<ref name=ceinventory />

Almost all students (96%) volunteer in the Twin Cities while at Macalester. The Macalester Civic Engagement center provides opportunities for students to engage in civic activity, volunteerism, and community engagement while at the college.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Community Engagement Center |url=https://www.macalester.edu/community-engagement/ |access-date=2026-05-12 |language=en}}</ref> Mobilize Mac is the college's political engagement arm, promoting democratic engagement and elections-related work.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mobilize Mac |url=https://www.macalester.edu/community-engagement/elections-and-democracy/mobilize-mac/ |access-date=2026-05-12 |language=en}}</ref> Many student organizations encourage active civic engagement, including Democracy Matters, Friends of Médecins Sans Frontières, Green@Mac, and Macalester Habitat for Humanity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Student Organizations |url=https://www.macalester.edu/directory/studentorganizations/ |access-date=2026-05-12 |language=en}}</ref>

Macalester is the primary financial contributor and sponsor of the Minnesota Institute for Talented Youth, which was founded in 1967 and has its main facilities in the Lampert Building. MITY provides two different gifted education programs during the summer and one on weekends during the academic year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mity.org/index.php/about-mity|title=MITY – Minnesota Institute for Talented Youth|website=www.mity.org|access-date=January 3, 2013|archive-date=January 2, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130102111842/http://www.mity.org/index.php/about-mity|url-status=live}}</ref> Macalester also participates in Project Pericles, a commitment to further encourage civic engagement at the college.<ref name=ceinventory /> In 2000, Macalester signed the Talloires Declaration, making a commitment to environmental sustainability, as well as a sweatshop pledge, making a commitment to fair-labor practices in the purchase of college apparel.<ref name=ceinventory />

===LGBTQ community=== The Campus Pride Index awarded Macalester five out of five stars for LGBTQ-friendly campuses.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.citypages.com/blotter/2012/09/macalester_is_lgbt_friendly_after_all_says_campus_pride_index.php |title=Macalester is LGBT friendly after all, says Campus Pride Index |first=Olivia |last=LaVecchia |work=City Pages |date=September 13, 2012 |access-date=August 13, 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150607014858/http://blogs.citypages.com/blotter/2012/09/macalester_is_lgbt_friendly_after_all_says_campus_pride_index.php |archive-date=June 7, 2015 }}</ref> In 2007, ''The Princeton Review'' named Macalester the nation's most gay-friendly college.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tcdailyplanet.net/audio-video/2007/08/28/macalester-named-most-gay-friendly-college.html |title=Macalester named most gay-friendly college |first=Benno |last=Groeneveld |date=August 28, 2007 |work=Twin Cities Daily Planet |access-date=August 13, 2015 |archive-date=September 14, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240914032317/http://www.tcdailyplanet.net/audio-video/2007/08/28/macalester-named-most-gay-friendly-college.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Macalester has started an initiative to ensure access to single-stall and all-gender bathrooms across campus.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.macalester.edu/multiculturallife/lgbtq/allgenderbathrooms.html|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130706144115/http://www.macalester.edu/multiculturallife/lgbtq/allgenderbathrooms.html| title=All Gender Bathrooms<!-- Bot generated title -->|archivedate=July 6, 2013}}</ref>

Macalester has a student-powered Gender and Sexuality Resource Center that aims to build a culture of resistance against all forms of oppression.<ref name="GSRC">{{cite web |url=http://www.macalester.edu/multiculturallife/lgbtq/gsrc/ |title=Gender & Sexuality Resource Center |work=Macalester College |access-date=August 13, 2015 |archive-date=September 5, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905233255/http://www.macalester.edu/multiculturallife/lgbtq/gsrc/ |url-status=live }}</ref> It also has active LGBTQ student organizations and groups, including Queer Union, the Trans Identity Collective, Allies Project Training, and the Macalester Out and Proud Community.<ref name="GSRC" />

===Pipe band=== The college has a pipe band consisting of around 20 students, alumni, and community members. Bagpipes are performed at significant college events and are heard when applicants open their acceptance letters. Macalester offers students free bagpipes and lessons and has an official tartan plaid. In the 1930s, students jokingly brought bagpipes to campus as a reference to the college's Scottish name, which started the tradition.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Brooks |first=Jennifer |date=November 9, 2024 |title=Brooks: At this Minnesota college, every student is entitled to free bagpipe lessons |url=https://www.startribune.com/brooks-at-this-minnesota-college-every-student-is-entitled-to-free-bagpipe-lessons/601178011 |access-date=December 31, 2024 |website=www.startribune.com |language=en |archive-date=December 31, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241231125221/https://www.startribune.com/brooks-at-this-minnesota-college-every-student-is-entitled-to-free-bagpipe-lessons/601178011 |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Athletics== thumb|Macalester athletics wordmark Macalester's athletic teams are nicknamed the Scots. Macalester is a member of the NCAA Division III Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) in all sports. The Scots' football team set an NCAA Division III record by losing 50 straight games from 1974 to 1980. Earlham College broke that record in 2018, losing 51 straight games.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wibc.com/news/local-news/earlham-college-suspends-football-program-heels-college-footballs-longest-losing|title=Earlham College Suspends Football Program On Heels Of College Football's Longest Losing Streak|last=Darling|first=Kurt|date=November 13, 2018|access-date=December 9, 2018|archive-date=December 10, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181210015817/https://www.wibc.com/news/local-news/earlham-college-suspends-football-program-heels-college-footballs-longest-losing|url-status=live}}</ref> In 1977, Macalester set a Division III record by allowing 59.1 points per game. The losing streak ended in dramatic fashion: Kicker Bob Kaye put a 23-yarder through the uprights with 11 seconds remaining in a September 1980 game as the Scots beat Mount Senario College.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/page2/s/list/colfootball/teams/worst.html |title=Worst college football teams of all time |work=ESPN.com |access-date=August 13, 2015 |archive-date=April 17, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100417064447/http://espn.go.com/page2/s/list/colfootball/teams/worst.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The Scots football team left the MIAC after the 2001 season<ref>{{cite web |url=https://athletics.macalester.edu/news/2020/5/27/football-macalester-to-return-to-miac-in-2021 |title=Football: Macalester to Return to MIAC in 2021 |access-date=November 4, 2025 |archive-date=November 4, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251104160855/https://athletics.macalester.edu/news/2020/5/27/football-macalester-to-return-to-miac-in-2021 |url-status=live }}</ref> and competed as an independent until 2014, when it joined the Midwest Conference. Under head coach Tony Jennison, Macalester won the Midwest Conference title in its first year in the league. This was the Scots' first conference football title since 1947.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.macalester.edu/news/2014/11/football-takes-conference-title/ |title=Football Takes Conference Title |date=November 15, 2014 |publisher=Macalester College |access-date=November 15, 2014 |archive-date=November 20, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141120095842/http://www.macalester.edu/news/2014/11/football-takes-conference-title/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Macalester also won nine games in 2014, the most ever in a Scots season in its 121 years of intercollegiate football.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.macalester.edu/whatshappening/press/11_01/11_27_01.html |title=Macalester News |publisher=Macalester College |access-date=June 13, 2012 |archive-date=November 9, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141109151108/http://www.macalester.edu/whatshappening/press/11_01/11_27_01.html |url-status=live }}</ref> That year, the team earned its first NCAA Division III playoff appearance. In 2020, the football team returned to the MIAC.{{cn|date=April 2026}}

thumb|The Leonard Center athletic and wellness complex

Both men's and women's soccer teams remain competitive, appearing in multiple NCAA playoffs since 1988, with the men's team making 12 national tournaments and the women's team appearing in 15.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Macalester Men's Soccer |url=https://www.facebook.com/MacalesterMensSoccer/ |access-date=November 4, 2025}}</ref> The women's team won the NCAA championship in 1998 and finished second in 1999.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Women's Soccer Records & Awards |url=https://athletics.macalester.edu/sports/2011/11/22/WSOC_1122114426.aspx |access-date=November 4, 2025 |archive-date=June 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230602091423/https://athletics.macalester.edu/sports/2011/11/22/WSOC_1122114426.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> The men's team has won 12 MIAC championships<ref>{{Cite web |title=Men's Soccer Records & Awards |url=https://athletics.macalester.edu/sports/2011/11/8/MSOC_1108110136.aspx |access-date=November 4, 2025 |archive-date=November 5, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251105195014/https://athletics.macalester.edu/sports/2011/11/8/MSOC_1108110136.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> and the women's team has won eight MIAC titles. Coach John Leaney, who won 489 games as the coach of both teams, was honored in 2023 when Macalester named the field at Macalester Stadium "John Leaney Field".<ref>{{Cite web |title=Macalester to Name Field After Legendary Soccer Coach John Leaney |url=https://athletics.macalester.edu/news/2022/8/2/general-macalester-to-name-field-after-legendary-soccer-coach-john-leaney.aspx |access-date=November 4, 2025 |archive-date=November 25, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221125012215/https://athletics.macalester.edu/news/2022/8/2/general-macalester-to-name-field-after-legendary-soccer-coach-john-leaney.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> Both teams are well-supported by students, parents and alumni. Mental Floss named one of Macalester sports fans' most (in)famous cheers—"Drink blood, smoke crack, worship Satan, go Mac!"—one of its "7 Memorable Sports Chants".<ref>{{cite web |first=Will |last=Treece |url=http://www.mentalfloss.com/blogs/archives/60166 |title=7 Memorable Sports Chants |publisher=Mentalfloss.com |date=July 7, 2010 |access-date=August 6, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110615073354/http://www.mentalfloss.com/blogs/archives/60166 |archive-date=June 15, 2011 }}</ref>

Macalester Athletics compete in the Leonard Center, which opened in August 2008. The $45 million facility encompasses 175,000 square feet and includes a 200-meter track, a natatorium, a fitness center, several multipurpose rooms, and a health and wellness center. Materials from the former facility were disposed of in environmentally friendly ways, with some incorporated into the new structure.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://athletics.macalester.edu/sports/2011/8/25/GEN_0825112913.aspx?id=190 |title=Macalester College Athletics |work=Macalester College |access-date=August 13, 2015 |archive-date=September 6, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906230524/http://athletics.macalester.edu/sports/2011/8/25/GEN_0825112913.aspx?id=190 |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Notable alumni== {{Main list|List of Macalester College people }}<gallery mode="packed"> File:Kofi Annan 2012 (cropped).jpg|Kofi Annan '61, Secretary-General of the United Nations and Nobel Peace Prize laureate File:Waltermondaleasdiplomat.jpg|Walter Mondale, '50, Vice President of the United States (1977–1981) File:Danai Gurira by Gage Skidmore 3.jpg|Danai Gurira '01, actress and playwright File:Bobby Joe Champion.jpg|Bobby Joe Champion, '87, President of the Minnesota Senate File:Rebecca Otto.jpg|Rebecca Otto, '85, Minnesota State Auditor File:Governor Scott McCallum 2001 (cropped).jpg|Scott McCallum '72, Governor of Wisconsin File:DeWitt Wallace.jpg|DeWitt Wallace '11, founder, ''Reader's Digest'' magazine </gallery><!-- Please maintain alphabetical order by last name. --> * Jeremy Allaire, 1993, co-founder of Circle * Paul Anderson, 1965, Minnesota Supreme Court justice * Kofi Annan, 1961, Secretary-General of the United Nations and Nobel Peace Prize laureate * Siah Armajani, 1963, sculptor * Charles Baxter, 1969, writer and University of Minnesota professor * Peter Berg, 1983, actor and film director * Richard P. Binzel, 1980, astronomer and Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor * Amy Briggs, 1984, video game designer * Mike Carr, 1973, game designer and commodities trader * Sokhary Chau, politician * Michael James Davis, 1969, judge of the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota * Chank Diesel, 1990, typographer * Mark Doten, 2001, novelist and librettist * Ari Emanuel, 1983, talent agent * Matt Entenza, 1983, Minnesota state representative * William P. Gerberding, 1951, president of the University of Washington * Danai Gurira, 2001, actress and playwright * Christy Haynes, 1998, chemistry professor at the University of Minnesota * Paul Huttner, 1985, chief meteorologist for Minnesota Public Radio * Marilyn Gayle Hoff, 1964, author, educator, activist * Mary Karr, 1974, writer * T. Kingfisher, 1998, writer and illustrator * Julia Kirtland, 1987, distance runner * Catharine Deaver Lealtad, 1915, pediatrician and humanitarian * Carl Lumbly, 1973, actor * Walter Mondale, 1950, vice president of the United States and U.S. ambassador to Japan * Bob Mould, 1982, musician and writer * Tim O'Brien, 1968, writer * Shawn Lawrence Otto, 1984, screenwriter and film producer * Tim Paulson, 1975, California labor leader * Stephen Paulus, 1971, composer, American Composers Forum co-founder * Sharon Sayles Belton, 1973, mayor of Minneapolis * Will Sheff, 1997, musician * Richmond Sarpong, 1995, chemistry professor at University of California, Berkeley * Fred Swaniker, 1999, African Leadership Academy co-founder * DeWitt Wallace, 1911, founder of ''Reader's Digest'', philanthropist * Christopher O. Ward, 1976, executive director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey * Robert Willis Warren, 1950, judge of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin * Dave Zirin, 1996, political sportswriter

==See also== {{Portal|United States}} * List of colleges and universities in Minnesota * Higher education in Minnesota {{clear}}

==References== {{reflist}}

==Further reading== * Kilde, Jeanne Halgren. ''Nature and Revelation: A History of Macalester College'' (University of Minnesota Press, 2010) 400 pp. {{ISBN|978-0-8166-5627-1}}

==External links== {{Commons category}} * {{Official website}} * [https://athletics.macalester.edu/ Athletics website]

{{Macalester College}} {{navboxes |title = |titlestyle = background:#013E63; color:white; border:2px solid #D44420 |list = {{Colleges and universities in Minnesota}} {{Presbyterian Colleges}} {{QuestBridge}} {{Annapolis Group}} {{Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities}} {{Oberlin Group}} {{CLAC}} {{Associated Colleges of the Midwest}} {{ACTC schools}} {{Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference navbox}} }} {{authority control}}

Category:Macalester College Category:Liberal arts colleges in Minnesota Category:Universities and colleges established in 1874 Old Main, Macalester College Category:Universities and colleges in Saint Paul, Minnesota Category:1874 establishments in Minnesota Category:University and college buildings and structures on the National Register of Historic Places in Minnesota Category:Private universities and colleges in Minnesota Category:Universities and colleges affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA) Category:Universities and colleges accredited by the Higher Learning Commission