The Evergreen State College

The Evergreen State College is a public liberal arts and sciences college located in Olympia, Washington. Established in 1971, it was created by the Washington State Legislature to offer an alternative approach to higher education. The college is known for its interdisciplinary curriculum, narrative evaluations in place of traditional grades, and emphasis on collaborative, seminar-style learning. Students design individualized academic pathways and often participate in team-taught programs that integrate multiple fields of study. Evergreen also operates a campus in Tacoma and maintains a strong focus on public service, environmental studies, and community engagement. It tends to attract students seeking flexible degree options and a nontraditional academic structure.

The Evergreen State College was founded in 1971 in Olympia, Washington, following enabling legislation passed by the Washington State Legislature in 1967 to create a new public four-year institution. Designed as an innovative alternative to traditional colleges, The Evergreen State College opened its doors on October 4, 1971, with Charles J. McCann serving as its first president. From the outset, Evergreen emphasized interdisciplinary programs, team teaching, and narrative evaluations instead of letter grades. In 1977, former Washington governor Daniel J. Evans became president, further shaping the college’s development. Evergreen expanded its reach with the establishment of programs in Tacoma, formally recognized in 1982. Over the decades, The Evergreen State College has maintained its distinctive academic model while adapting to changes in enrollment, funding, and public higher education policy, continuing to serve students across Washington state.