History & Traditions

A Legacy of Leadership

Choosing a college isn’t about numbers and rankings – it’s about finding a place where you belong, where your dreams can take flight.

At 51��, you’ll discover more than just an institution; you’ll find a community that celebrates YOU. No matter where you come from or where you’re headed, you’ll find a home here. We embrace every background, every story, and every person for who they are.

This isn’t just a college; it’s a family. Together, we lift each other up, celebrate our differences, lean on each other for support, and learn from each other.

“We See You” isn’t just a slogan – it’s a promise to every student, a commitment to seeing and championing them throughout every step of their college journey. You’ve got this, and we’ve got you.

1867: The Beginning

July 12: Visionaries from Allentown’s Zion’s Reformed Church dreamt of an education facility for women, leading to the creation of “Lehigh Female Academy.”

September 5: The first classes kicked off in a church basement with 8 students, growing to 15 by the end of the week.

1868: Finding a New Home

Outgrowing its first location, the academy bought Robert Emmett Wright’s Clover Nook estate, becoming “Allentown Female College.”

1872: Alumnae Association

The Cedar Crest Alumnae Association was born, later becoming a nonprofit in 1933.

1884: Expansion

The campus expanded to include 25 rooms, a gym, library, art room, and a chapel.

1893: A New Name

The school was renamed “Allentown College for Women.”

1913: 51�� is Founded

June 4: Our current campus at 30th and Walnut was dedicated as the school’s new site, transforming from a cornfield to 51��.

1915: New Beginnings

September 29: Classes began on our new campus.

President William F. Curtis started our arboretum with donations of flowers, shrubs, and trees.

1927: President’s Home

The Allen House, originally home to President Curtis, later became a library and an office building named in honor of the late William and Roberta Ritter Allen ’36, generous supporters of the College.

1983: A Storm and a Legacy

August 11: A storm took down our iconic black walnut tree, inspiring the development of our campus tree collection.

1985: Official Arboretum

Certified by the American Public Gardens Association, our arboretum was named after President Curtis.

2001: Falcon Takes Flight

After a campus-wide vote, the Falcon was chosen as our fierce and friendly mascot, uniting our community under a new symbol.

2003: Graduate Education

Cedar Crest launched its first graduate program, the MBA program, paving the way for expanded opportunities in advanced education.

2017: Nursing Milestones

We introduced our first Doctoral-level degrees in Nursing and established the School of Nursing, marking significant advancements in our healthcare education.

2018: New Journeys

Our students embarked on the inaugural Sophomore Expedition, taking our students to the vibrant landscapes of Brazil.

Cedar Crest proudly acquired and revitalized Mayfair Festival of the Arts, an Allentown staple. Proceeds from the festival now directly support our students.

2019: Crime Science Innovation

Cedar Crest launched the nation’s first Master’s program in Crime Science, leading the way in this cutting-edge field.

2020: Pandemic Response

Our Nursing program donated its entire store of PPE to local hospitals during the pandemic, showcasing unwavering support and solidarity in a difficult time.

2023: STEM Leadership

NASA awarded the College $750k to work towards bridging the gender gap in STEM fields.

Traditions

At Cedar Crest, our traditions define our community. From the anticipation of Orientation to the joy of Commencement, these cherished moments unite us, shaping the Cedar Crest experience.

Open Door Ceremony

Since 1923, and revived in ’85, our Open Door Ceremony is our warm welcome to new students. Picture this: you enter Blaney Hall, adding your name to a legacy of trailblazers, then step outside, proudly announcing your name and hometown to the Cedar Crest family. As you descend the steps, you’re greeted with welcome gifts and your class banner, symbolizing your place in our vibrant community.

Strawberry Festival

Thanks to Dr. Dorothy Gulbenkian Blaney, our Strawberry Festival is a sweet tradition that brings us together. Students gather at the President’s House, indulging in juicy strawberries and chocolate with their fellow classmates. It’s a chance to create memories and celebrate sisterhood, even after you’ve graduated.

Junior Ring Ceremony

Dating back to 1943, our Junior Ring Ceremony is a rite of passage for juniors. As you receive your class ring, adorned with interlaced C’s, you’re not just making a commitment to Cedar Crest – you’re joining a legacy of leaders. Surrounded by friends, family, and yellow roses, you step into your final years at the College with pride and excitement.

Best of the Crest

At the Best of the Crest Leadership Award Ceremony, we celebrate our standout stars. Whether you’re recognized for your leadership, creativity, or personal growth, it’s your moment to shine. When you receive an award, it’s a testament to your dedication and impact on our community.

Frolic

Let loose and celebrate at Frolic, our end-of-semester bash! Picture this: a variety show filled with music, laughter, and talent, followed by a midnight breakfast served by your favorite professors. It’s the perfect way to unwind and celebrate all you’ve accomplished.

Espejo

Named after the Cedar Crest yearbook, which documented the stories and images of Cedar Crest students from 1920 to 2011, Espejo is a heartfelt celebration of individuality and community, embodying the College’s inclusive spirit. During Espejo, students are presented with heritage and identity stoles, symbolizing their CCC journey and honoring their achievements and cultural heritage.

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