<p>I’m not sure it offers the sort of academics you are looking for, but have you heard of the Evergreen State College? It has just under 5,000 students, is located on the West Coast (might be a little too far north for your liking), it is known for offering a style of education that is more alternative and less “by the books”, and it has a very progressive, liberal student body. </p>
<p>On the downside, the perception is that many of the students use marijuana recreationally. Although I’m sure you could find plenty of students who don’t.</p>