Mission and goals
Young Harris College is a private, selective, predominantly residential institution. The College adheres to the Wesleyan tradition that seeks to develop both a trained mind and a warm heart. Learn more about our mission, goals and values.
YHC follows the “New American College” model of integrating the liberal arts and professional programs. Its campus is located in the mountains of northeast Georgia, two hours from Atlanta. It provides educational programs there, online, and at partner sites throughout north Georgia.
Our mission statement
YHC is your warm-hearted community of learners, transforming lives into passion and purpose.
Our slogan and motto
Young Harris College’s slogan is “Educate, Inspire, Empower.” The second element of the slogan is derived from the College’s Latin motto, Hic Iuventus Incenditur, which can be translated in English as “Here youth are inspired.” The motto features in the College’s official seal.
Educate
Young Harris College seeks to be recognized in the Southeast as an institution that, through its liberal arts education, encourages students to be intellectually curious.
The College will educate the whole person through a comprehensive program of classroom, residential and extra-curricular experiences. Faculty and staff will be active lifelong learners, and the College will support their intellectual and professional development.
The College will examine its processes and learn not only from itself, but also remain involved with the academy at-large. The College will embrace emerging technology and pedagogical innovations.
Inspire
Young Harris College will be inclusive in character, providing opportunities for the development of faith through study, worship and service.
The College will take advantage of its mountain setting, incorporating the heritage and natural environment in both academics and student programming.
The College will provide diverse educational, recreational, social and cultural experiences for its students and the surrounding community.
Empower
Young Harris College will prepare its students to exercise mature and independent moral judgment in an ever-changing and diverse world. The College will challenge students to find and develop their particular talents, skills and abilities. The College will provide opportunities for students to interact with others from diverse backgrounds, thus preparing them for responsible citizenship. The Young Harris College experience will exemplify environmental awareness, stewardship and service to the community.
YHC core values
Community
We value individuals and their unique contributions to the learning experience.
Integrity
We are individually and collectively accountable, transparent, honest and gracious.
Innovation
We win and led by embracing creativity and the ever-changing liberal arts.
Legacy
We are committed to the timeless Wesleyan tradition of cultivating trained minds and warm hearts.
Responsibility
We collaborate to advance a free society, stewarding resources in a fiscally responsible manner to make today and tomorrow better.
Diligence
We prepare our students for meaningful professional success.
Learn more about YHC
Leadership
Meet the visionary leaders driving our legacy forward.
Sustainability
We are spearheading efforts to be better stewards of resources, to reduce our carbon footprint and to integrate sustainability into their everyday lives.
