50 Facts About Tulane University

Tulane University: A Brief Overview

Tulane University, located in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a prestigious institution known for its academic excellence and vibrant campus life. Here are some fascinating facts about Tulane that you might not know.

1. Tulane University was founded in 1834 as the Medical College of Louisiana.
2. It became Tulane University in 1884 after a generous donation from Paul Tulane.
3. The university is a member of the Association of American Universities, an elite group of research institutions.
4. Tulane's motto is "Non Sibi, Sed Suis," which means "Not for oneself, but for one's own."
5. The campus spans 110 acres in the heart of New Orleans.

Academic Excellence

Tulane is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and distinguished faculty. Here are some highlights of its academic prowess.

6. Tulane offers over 70 undergraduate majors.
7. The university has five undergraduate schools: Architecture, Business, Liberal Arts, Public Health, and Science and Engineering.
8. Tulane's Law School is one of the oldest in the nation, established in 1847.
9. The university's School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine is the oldest in the U.S.
10. Tulane is known for its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies.

Campus Life

Life at Tulane is vibrant and diverse, offering students a unique blend of academic and extracurricular activities.

11. Tulane has over 200 student organizations.
12. The university's mascot is Riptide the Pelican.
13. The annual Crawfest event is a student favorite, featuring live music and tons of crawfish.
14. Tulane's Green Wave football team competes in the American Athletic Conference.
15. The university has a robust Greek life, with over 20 fraternities and sororities.

Research and Innovation

Tulane is a hub for groundbreaking research and innovation, contributing significantly to various fields.

16. The university spends over $160 million annually on research.
17. Tulane's Brain Institute is a leader in neuroscience research.
18. The university's ByWater Institute focuses on coastal resilience and water management.
19. Tulane researchers played a crucial role in the development of the HPV vaccine.
20. The university's Innovation Institute supports student startups and entrepreneurship.

Notable Alumni

Tulane has produced many influential and successful alumni who have made significant contributions to society.

21. David Filo, co-founder of Yahoo!, is a Tulane alumnus.
22. New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman graduated from Tulane.
23. Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich earned his Ph.D. from Tulane.
24. Lisa P. Jackson, former head of the EPA, is a Tulane alumna.
25. Renowned chef and TV personality Emeril Lagasse attended Tulane.

Community Engagement

Tulane is deeply committed to community service and engagement, making a positive impact locally and globally.

26. The university requires all undergraduates to complete a public service requirement.
27. Tulane's Center for Public Service coordinates numerous volunteer opportunities.
28. The university's Cowen Institute focuses on improving public education in New Orleans.
29. Tulane students contribute over 750,000 hours of community service annually.
30. The university's Disaster Resilience Leadership Academy trains leaders in disaster response and recovery.

Unique Traditions

Tulane has a rich history of unique traditions that add to its distinctive campus culture.

31. The annual Wave Goodbye event celebrates graduating seniors.
32. The university's Victory Bell is rung after athletic victories.
33. Tulane's Homecoming Week features a parade, concerts, and a football game.
34. The university's "TUCP" (Tulane University Campus Programming) hosts major concerts and events.
35. The annual Bead Toss during Mardi Gras is a beloved tradition among students.

Sustainability Efforts

Tulane is committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship, implementing various green initiatives.

36. The university has a comprehensive recycling program.
37. Tulane's Green Club promotes environmental awareness on campus.
38. The university's LEED-certified buildings reduce energy consumption.
39. Tulane's dining services prioritize locally sourced and sustainable food options.
40. The university's Office of Sustainability coordinates campus-wide green initiatives.

Global Reach

Tulane's influence extends beyond the U.S., with a strong focus on global education and partnerships.

41. The university offers numerous study abroad programs in over 40 countries.
42. Tulane's Payson Center for International Development conducts research in global development.
43. The university has partnerships with institutions in Latin America, Europe, and Asia.
44. Tulane's School of Public Health has projects in over 70 countries.
45. The university's Global Scholars Program prepares students for international careers.

Arts and Culture

Tulane is a cultural hub, offering a rich array of arts and cultural experiences.

46. The university's Newcomb Art Museum features contemporary and historical art exhibitions.
47. Tulane's music department hosts numerous concerts and performances.
48. The university's theater program stages several productions each year.
49. Tulane's Creative Writing program is highly regarded, with many published authors among its faculty.
50. The university's Jazz Archive is one of the largest collections of jazz-related materials in the world.

Final Thoughts on Tulane University

Tulane University stands out for its rich history, academic excellence, and vibrant campus life. From its founding in 1834 to its current status as a top-tier research institution, Tulane has consistently pushed boundaries. The university's commitment to community service, diverse student body, and innovative programs make it a unique place to learn and grow. Whether you're interested in the arts, sciences, or business, Tulane offers a wide range of opportunities. Its location in New Orleans adds a cultural richness that's hard to match. With a strong focus on sustainability and global engagement, Tulane prepares students to make a meaningful impact in the world. If you're considering higher education options, Tulane University deserves a closer look. Its blend of tradition and innovation creates an environment where students can thrive academically and personally.