Friends University

Friends University, a private institution founded in 1898, offers a vibrant academic experience rooted in a truly unique history. Prospective students seeking a college with a rich past and a commitment to individual growth will find a welcoming community here, led by President Amy Bragg Carey. With an enrollment of 2,782 students, Friends University provides a focused and supportive environment.

The university's history is deeply intertwined with the magnificent Davis Administration Building, originally designed by Proudfoot & Bird and completed in 1887. This iconic structure first housed Garfield University, an ambitious effort by the Christian Churches of Kansas. At the time of its completion, it stood as the largest single building for educational purposes west of the Mississippi River and is now recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. Though Garfield University faced financial challenges and closed in the 1890s, its legacy set the stage for Friends University.

The campus found new life when James Davis, a Quaker, purchased the property with the intention of donating a college to the Quakers. This pivotal moment led to the establishment of Friends University, which continues the tradition of higher education within these historic walls. Students at Friends University are not just attending a college; they are becoming part of a story of resilience, vision, and enduring dedication to learning. The university's $0.1 billion endowment supports its mission, ensuring a robust future for its students.