Class of 2026 Breaks Records  

The campus welcomed the largest herd of new Camels in Conn history.

As they arrived on the first day of orientation in August, the 655 newest Connecticut College students were greeted by cheering student leaders, colorful signs, helpful staff and a campus ready to welcome the largest herd of new Camels in Conn history. 

“What a momentous day,” President Katherine Bergeron told the new students and their families at a welcome assembly on Conn’s expansive Tempel Green. “In choosing Connecticut College, I truly believe you have made one of the best decisions you could have made for your future.” 

Admitted from the largest ever applicant pool of nearly 9,000, the 635 members of the Class of 2026 and 20 transfer students were drawn to Conn’s innovative curriculum, extensive career preparation, global focus, commitment to full participation, tradition of environmental stewardship and ample opportunities for collaboration with faculty. Members of this impressive group come from 36 states and 23 countries, including Bangladesh, China, Colombia, India, Pakistan, Turkey, Uganda, Uruguay and Vietnam. Eighty-two are the first in their families to go to college, while 57 are at least the second members of their families to attend Conn.

The Class of 2026 is also among the most diverse in the College’s history; 24% are domestic students of color and 5% are international students.

SGA President Hannah Gonzalez ’23 encouraged the new students to embrace not only the many opportunities they will have to learn and grow, but also the people they will meet along the way. 

“My favorite aspect of Connecticut College is its community—in our home of many Camels, we are truly one herd,” she said during the welcome event.

 Dean of the College Erika Smith told the students that like many of them, she was drawn to Conn by Connections, which she called “an exemplar of integrative education.” She invited the students to experience the culmination of seniors’ four-years of integrative learning at the All-College Symposium in November. 

“I expect you will leave that experience intrigued, inspired and determined to find your own path, beginning on the journey to find the question that lights up your intellect,” she said.  

“We are so excited to have you here and can’t wait to see all the amazing things you’ll do.”