Friends University

Nestled in Wichita, Kansas, Friends University stands as a private institution with a rich history, founded in 1898. With a vibrant community of 2,782 students and led by President Amy Bragg Carey, it fosters an environment rooted in its Christian principles. The university's $0.1 billion endowment supports its mission to provide a distinct educational experience, drawing strength from its unique origins and enduring commitment to its values.

The iconic Davis Administration Building, a hallmark of the campus, holds a captivating past. Completed in 1887, this magnificent structure was initially home to Garfield University, an ambitious endeavor by Kansas's Christian Churches. At its inception, it was celebrated as the largest single building dedicated to education west of the Mississippi River. Despite attracting hundreds of students in its early years, Garfield University faced significant financial hurdles, leading to its closure in 1890 and a subsequent reorganization that ultimately proved unsustainable by 1893.

The property's fate took a pivotal turn when Quaker James Davis, driven by a philanthropic vision, acquired the building with the intention of donating it to the Quakers. This generous act laid the groundwork for the establishment of Friends University in 1898, imbuing the institution with a legacy of resilience, community, and faith. The Davis Administration Building itself is a testament to this remarkable history, recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, symbolizing the enduring spirit of higher education that defines Friends University today.