The Alva J. Calderwood School of Arts and Letters was dedicated in 2002 in honor of Dr. Alva J. Calderwood, a professor for 53 years and Dean of the College for 35 years. Dr. Calderwood graduated from Grove City College in 1896, and after pursuing graduate studies at Harvard University, he returned to Grove City College to spend the remainder of his life teaching and administering. He was known as an accomplished professor and academic dean who took a personal interest in the lives of everyone. His example lives on as a guiding light today for faculty, students and administration.

The Alva J. Calderwood School of Arts and Letters is comprised of the Departments of Accounting; Biblical and Religious Studies; Business; Communication Studies; Economics; Education; English; Entrepreneurship; History; Modern Languages; Music and Fine Arts; Philosophy; Physical Education and Athletics; Political Science; Psychology and Sociology.