Coeducation - Retrospective Materials

Please explore some of Claremont McKenna College's retrospective features, videos, and interviews highlighting the College's transition to coeducation, its first women students, and its name change from Claremont Men's College.

"The 'Pioneers'" (Celebrating 25 Years of Coeducation), Claremont McKenna College Magazine, Spring 2001

Pioneer Project (40th Anniversary of Coeducation at CMC), 2016

"The Pioneers: Breaking the Glass Ceiling at a Men's College," May 17, 2021

As the College transitioned to coeducation, there were bound to be bumps along the way. While many foreseen situations were planned and prepared for, there were some instances that the first women of Claremont Men’s College had to navigate all on their own. In this session you’ll hear from a panel of Pioneers as they relive some of their favorite moments and memories from those early years including reflecting on the social atmosphere, athletics, admission into a men’s college, and how those experiences shaped them post-college.

Excerpt from "The Stark Presidency with Jil '58 GP'11 and Jack Stark '57 GP'11," June 8, 2021

Appointed president of CMC in 1970, Jack Stark '57 GP'11 served as CMC's chief executive during some of the most challenging periods in the history of higher education. Under his leadership, CMC's endowment grew from $10 million to more than $350 million. He led the college to exceptional growth in reputation, academic quality, and student selectivity. Under Stark's leadership, CMC expanded its influence in public affairs through the creation of nine public policy research institutes. In 1976, CMC marked its 30th anniversary by becoming coeducational. In 1981, CMC's name was changed to Claremont McKenna College, honoring founding trustee Donald C. McKenna. Throughout those exciting years, Jil Stark '58 GP'11, was an important presence on the CMC campus and solidified her role as a beloved first-lady of Claremont McKenna College and as Athenaeum director. Hear from Jack and Jil as they reflect on their 29-year presidency.

(Watch the full interview here)

Please join us again in September, as we continue our monthly archival exhibitions celebrating Claremont McKenna College’s history. Our next exhibit will continue CMC’s story with a focus on campus life and student traditions over the decades at the College.