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The Colorado School of Mines is a public, 4-year school located in Golden CO. The school was founded in 1874, as the town of Golden was a supply center for miners and settlers in the Colorado Territory. In 1879, the idea of merging the school with the State University in Boulder was considered, but it was determined not to be in the best interest of all parties. The 370 acre campus features a wide variety of architectural styles, ranging from “Second Empire” to “Postmodernist.” The campus features a main quad called Kafadar Commons as well as tree-lined pathways. The campus is near South Table Mountain Park, with boasts Castle Rock, a popular outdoor destination. Among notable alumni is Arden L. Bement, Jr, former Director of the National Science Foundation.