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Chowan University

Murfreesboro, NC

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Lux et Veritas(Light and Truth)

1848
Founded
Private university
Type
638
Total Students
800
Undergrad
86
Graduate
$27K
Tuition (In-State)
$27K
Tuition (Out-State)
$16K
Avg Net Price
72%
Acceptance Rate
29%
Graduation Rate
6-year
57%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Chowan University

Chowan University: A historic private institution evolving with spirit and purpose.

Step into the rich legacy of Chowan University, a private institution nestled in Murfreesboro, North Carolina, that has been shaping futures since 1848. Originally founded as the Chowan Baptist Female Institute, it carries a deep history rooted in empowering students through education. Over its long journey, Chowan has gracefully transformed from a women's college to a co-educational university, adapting to the needs of each generation while maintaining its core values.

Chowan is known for its enduring commitment to academic excellence and its storied past. From its humble beginnings offering baccalaureate degrees as Chowan College to its current status as a comprehensive university, it has consistently provided a supportive environment for learning. The institution's journey includes navigating significant historical periods, such as the Great Depression, which saw it temporarily become a two-year institution before proudly returning to four-year status in 1992.

With a close-knit student body of 886, Chowan offers an intimate educational experience where students can thrive and connect. The university's relationship with the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina has also evolved, emphasizing academic freedom and a cooperative spirit, ensuring a vibrant and independent academic future. Prospective students and families will find a campus rich in history, dedicated to student success, and guided by its motto, "Lux et Veritas" (Light and Truth), preparing graduates for meaningful lives and careers.

The recent appointment of Rosemary M. Thomas as the first woman president marks another significant milestone, ushering in a new era of leadership and innovation for this esteemed institution.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1848 as the Chowan Baptist Female Institute, boasting a rich historical legacy.
  • A private university with a focused student body of 886, ensuring personalized attention.
  • Became Chowan College in 1910 and began admitting male students in 1931.
  • Reclaimed four-year university status in 1992, transitioning to Chowan University in 2006.
  • Operates with autonomy from the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina, fostering academic freedom.
  • Led by its first woman president, Rosemary M. Thomas, appointed in 2023.

Timeline

1848
Founded by Godwin Cotton Moore as Chowan Baptist Female Institute.
1851
McDowell Columns building, housing administrative offices, constructed.
1910
Renamed Chowan College and began awarding baccalaureate degrees.
1931
Began admitting male students.
1937
Became a two-year institution due to financial strain from the Great Depression.
1992
Returned to four-year status, admitting a junior class.
2006
Officially changed its name to Chowan University.
2009
Gained autonomy from the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina.
2023
Rosemary M. Thomas named its 24th president, the first woman in the role.
🏛️
178 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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