Enriching Lives Through Learning

Stanford stands on a legacy of achievements that fulfill the vision Leland and Jane Stanford outlined in the university’s Founding Grant. The nature of studies should be directed to the “cultivation and enlargement of the mind,” the grant states, and the university’s objective is
to “qualify its students for personal success and direct usefulness in life.” Its purpose is “to
promote the public welfare.”

Today, Stanford encompasses seven schools with more than 17,000 students, and its educational reach extends further with Stanford Continuing Studies, located here in the Littlefield Center. The center once served the Graduate School of Business, which was previously located in this area. Stanford Continuing Studies serves more than 18,000 adult enrollees each year, with a rich lineup of 500 classroom and online courses, and hosts dozens of free public events.

Engaging Alumni

The loyalty and generosity of Stanford alumni are critical factors in the university’s success. Alumni volunteers offer expertise and support in various roles, including as members of the Board of Trustees. More than 11,000 alumni around the world volunteer for Stanford each year. Nearby on Galvez Street, the Frances C. Arrillaga Alumni Center welcomes alumni back to campus.

Lifelong Learning

Stanford launched its Master of Liberal Arts program in 1991 when few existed beyond the East Coast. Geared for part-time students with evening courses, the interdisciplinary MLA program — now among the most rigorous nationwide — draws a diverse, dynamic cohort including working professionals, new college graduates, and retirees.