Founded in 1881, by the initiatives of the visionary first principal, Rev. G.T. Washburn, the American College began with only four Christian young men. Since then the institution has grown phenomenally in academic excellence and student enrollment. A pioneer in higher education in this region, the College has dedicated itself to training students to serve God and people. The College continues to attract students by offering courses that are globally relevant and equipping them with in-demand employability skills.
The American College is integral to Madurai’s identity. The second Principal of the college, the Rev. W. M. Zumbro, who relocated the college to its present campus in the heart of the city, remarked poignantly that “the American College should grow with Madurai and Madurai should grow with the American College.” Our students and faculty are proud inheritors of this rich legacy shaped by generations of educators and innovators who have devoted their life to service. It both inspires and empowers us.
The iconic red brick buildings that dot the campus stand as a testament to College’s enduring commitment to liberal Christian education. Nurturing the spirit of critical inquiry and encouraging unfettered pursuit of knowledge are hallmarks of the American college experience. Over the years, the majestic Main Hall has hosted public intellectuals, politicians, artists, scientists, poets and literary scholars. Luminaries like Rabindranath Tagore, Stanley P. Rockefeller, C.N. Annadurai, M. Karunanidhi, and George Clemenceau have given memorable speeches in the Hall. This highlights the College’s long-standing tradition of liberal thought. The College has played a significant role in nation building through fostering ethical awareness and social responsibility among students.
The American College’s milestones include the attainment of college Autonomy in 1978, introduction of Choice Based Credit System in 2001 and actively internationalizing our educational approach through partnerships with foreign universities.
I would also like to highlight the significance of the Jubilee Chapel built in 1931. Designed in the Indo-Saracenic style that blends Mughal, Hindu and Gothic elements, the Chapel reflects College’s cross-cultural ethos. The college continues to transcend borders, embrace diversity and celebrate plurality. Rev. W. M. Zumbro’s prayer at the dedication of the Main Hall beautifully reflects this spirit: “May the spirit of service ever abide here, and may the desire to serve be strong in the hearts of the people. In truth, in righteousness, and in love may this College stand as a bond of fellowship between East and West, and as the newer civilization of the West meets here the older civilization the East, may there be conserved out of the old everything that is worthy, and may there be added out of the new that which is helpful.”
Our alumni–distinguished and devoted-are spread across the globe. They are a constant source of pride and inspiration. Their achievement across various fields bring honour to their Alma Mater and motivates us to scale even greater heights.
The essence of the American College is captured in its motto: purificatus non consumptus – “purified not consumed.” Like gold refined in fire, we are shaped by challenges without being diminished by them. Rooted in Christian values and committed to greater academic excellence, we aim to nurture both intellect and character. When we speak of supporting the weak or serving others, we do so not out of duty alone, but because it is who we are, formed by tradition, guided by conviction and a strong commitment to compassion. Like the burning bush that was not consumed, our College continues to lead, to serve, and to give. We are a community refined by challenges and called to a faith that uplifts, labours, and loves.
