College Profile: Landmark College

Choosing the right college is about finding a place where you can succeed academically, build lifelong friendships, and discover your strengths. For students with learning differences such as dyslexia, ADHD, autism, and executive function challenges, that choice can be hard. I recently had the chance to tour Landmark College in Putney, Vermont, and learn how this school offers a truly unique educational experience. As the first college in the United States created specifically for students who learn differently, Landmark has spent more than four decades redefining what college success can look like. I was blown away by what the school offers for students.

History:

Landmark College traces its roots to 1985, when it opened on the former Windham College campus in the scenic hills of southeastern Vermont. It was founded by Dr. Charles "Chad" Drake with the groundbreaking belief that students with learning differences deserved a college designed specifically for their learning styles rather than simply accommodations within a traditional university. Today, Landmark continues to pioneer innovative teaching methods for students with learning differences, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and executive functioning challenges.

Fun Facts:

• The first of its kind. Landmark was the first accredited college in the nation created exclusively for students with learning differences.

• Beautiful New England campus. The college is located on a picturesque 150-acre campus in Putney, Vermont, surrounded by forests, hiking trails, and mountain views.

• Small class sizes. With an impressive 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide highly personalized instruction.

• Designed for neurodivergent learners. Faculty are trained to use evidence-based teaching strategies that support multiple learning styles.

• Strong career preparation. Landmark's Career Connections office helps students develop internships, career skills, and employment opportunities before graduation.

• Growing academic offerings. While originally focused on associate degrees, Landmark now offers bachelor's degrees in subjects including Business, Computer Science, Liberal Studies, Psychology, History, and more.

• Study Away opportunities. Students can participate in international learning experiences in destinations such as Germany, Ireland, and Japan.

  
  

Traditions:

Although Landmark is relatively young compared to many colleges, it has developed traditions centered on community and student success.

New Student Orientation - Orientation is much more than learning where classrooms are located. New students participate in workshops focused on executive functioning, self-advocacy, campus life, and building friendships that help ease the transition into college.

Family Weekend - Parents and families are invited back to campus each year for athletic events, performances, academic presentations, and opportunities to experience student life alongside their students.

Student Clubs and Leadership - Landmark offers approximately two dozen student organizations ranging from academic clubs such as Moot Court and History Club to recreational groups like Gardening Club and gaming organizations. These clubs help students explore interests while developing leadership skills and friendships.

Community Celebrations - Throughout the year students enjoy guest speakers, cultural events, art exhibitions, campus activities, and seasonal celebrations that encourage connection within Landmark's close-knit community.

Student Statistics:

Here are a few numbers that help paint a picture of Landmark College:

Statistic	Information
Founded	1985
Location	Putney, Vermont
Total Enrollment (Fall 2024)	455 students
Student-Faculty Ratio	7:1
Male Students	63.7%
Female Students	34.7%
Nonbinary Students	1.5%
White Students	71.4%
Hispanic/Latino Students	7.3%
Black/African American Students	5.5%
Two or More Races	4.6%
Asian Students	3.3%

Why Students Choose Landmark:

Many students arrive at Landmark after struggling in traditional educational environments despite being intelligent and capable. The college emphasizes strengths rather than deficits, helping students build confidence while developing practical academic and life skills.

Students benefit from:

• Individualized academic coaching

• Executive function support

• Assistive technology resources

• Professors trained in neurodiverse learning

• Small, discussion-based classes

• A supportive residential community

• Career preparation beginning early in college

  
  

If you're a student with dyslexia, ADHD, autism, or another learning difference and want a college where support is woven into every aspect of campus life, and not simply offered as an accommodation, then Landmark College stands apart. Its innovative teaching methods, personalized attention, and welcoming community help students discover not only how they learn best, but also how they can thrive in college and beyond.

If this sounds like a good fit, then I encourage you to visit the campus in person, and check out the website at https://www.landmark.edu.