Gown in the Town: Monmouth College’s Legacy in the Community

Tevin Baker, Elena Hernandez, Zech Lapp, Jace Phillips, Maddie Psomas

Originally established almost 200 years ago in 1853, Monmouth College has remained a vital thread in the fabric of the Monmouth community. “If the college weren’t here, the town would feel it immediately,” said Jeff Rankin, a retired historian and editor for the college. With its active faculty and students, the college and town have shared a deeply intertwined history. However, it's the “symbiotic relationship” that the college’s alumni share with the community that makes a lasting impact.

The college has long positioned itself as a “good neighbor,” said Rankin. “At one time, the water mains weren’t good on Sixth Street,” Rankin said, “So the college purchased a pumper truck for the fire station. They’ve done a lot of things like that.”

Historically, Monmouth College alumni have played a pivotal role in shaping the town’s identity. Graduates have led in various sectors of the community, from public service to arts and media. “There’s a lot of college grads active in the area still…I have a list of people that come to mind,” said Rankin. One of those grads is Rod Davies, class of ‘72, the sitting mayor of Monmouth. Another is Vanessa Wetterling, class of ‘96, who owns the local radio station. “There’s Aaron Jensen, class of ‘89, who is president of Midwest Bank…and we’ve got Kristyne Gilbert, who’s director of the Buchannan Center for the Arts,” Rankin said. Rankin said that the connection between Monmouth College and the town is a “symbiotic relationship.” Alumni who choose to remain in the area bring their expertise and dedication back to the community, creating a cycle of mutual benefit.

“If the college wasn't here, I think [people] would all of a sudden realize there's not that many things in Monmouth that are keeping it going,” said Rankin, “Some people don’t really appreciate what an impact it has.”