Quaker Heritage

Guilford is historically affiliated with the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), a connection that provides much of the unique culture of the campus. Distinctive features at Guilford include consensual decision-making, the absence of a Greek system, opening moments of silence at many meetings, first-name greetings and a commitment to cultural pluralism. All of these are examples of the college's Quaker heritage.

Friends (as Quakers are also called) emerged out of the English revolution of the 1640s and 1650s with a radical Christian commitment to perfecting themselves and society along the lines of Jesus' ministry and example. The religious and social climate of the time produced a Quaker movement that emphasized peace, simplicity, integrity, equality and each person's ability to know and obey Truth. Friends worshipped in silence without the benefit of clergy as a means of being attentive to God. They eschewed titles and other formalities in witness to their equality before God; they refused participation in war; and, they simplified their outward dress and way of life.

In North Carolina, where Quakers were an organized religious body by 1698, Friends have had a profound impact. Their pacifism led to acts of moral heroism during the American Revolution, Civil War and the wars of this century. Opposition to slavery led to the establishment of the "Underground Railroad" in 1819 on what is now the campus and an involvement in desegregation efforts in the 1950s and 1960s. Commitment to education led to the creation of New Garden Boarding School (predecessor to Guilford) in 1837 as the south's first co-educational institution as well as the entire system of public education in North Carolina.

At Guilford, Quaker values continue to lead the college and its students, faculty and staff to question prevailing assumptions. On campus, persons who are often marginalized in larger society are respected. Materialism, privilege and misuse of recreational chemicals are scrutinized as impediments to a more spiritual and egalitarian life. Life is understood to have greater meaning than mere profession of beliefs or personal comfort.

At Guilford, Quakerism is more than a distant memory of religious association. It is a vibrant and living force creating the unique cultural that is the college. It may not be something that you notice every moment, but it is all around you. When you are ready to explore who Friends are, more in depth, feel free to call the Friends Center at 2445 for more information about the rich and diverse community of Quakers on campus and in the wider community.