Shepard College is one of ten residential colleges at Northwestern University. The residential colleges were established in the early 1970's, with the goal of improving the quality of undergraduate life. This included strengthening student-faculty relations, forming strong community ties, and providing academic, cultural, and social programs. A primary goal of the residential colleges was to promote learning outside the traditional classroom format as well as encourage stimulating and creative recreation.
While most of the residential colleges are organized around a particular field of study or special interest, Shepard is non-thematic and students from many undergraduate schools are included in its membership. Since its founding in 1972, the activities and programs have covered a wide spectrum. These have included academic programs, “firesides” (informal talks with speakers from the university community and the professional world), and cultural and artistic events as well as social activities.
Shepard places a strong emphasis on individual initiative and active participation for both students and faculty. This participation has often been used as criteria for membership in the college. In 1981, a proposal was made for the clustering of students and associate faculty to improve student-faculty relations and increase commitment to the college. As with most organizations, Shepard's success has varied over the years. In 1982, plans were made to close the college to provide regular dormitory housing, but because of student and faculty reaction, Shepard College has continued to operate.
From the guide to the Shepard Residential College Records, 1972-1984, (Northwestern University Archives)
