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George Fox University

Newberg, OR

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Wikipedia
2,505
Total Students
$41K
Tuition (In-State)
$41K
Tuition (Out-State)
$30K
Avg Net Price
96%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Graduation Rate
6-year
77%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification

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

About George Fox University

Oregon's largest private university, rooted in Quaker tradition and committed to faith and culture.

George Fox University, nestled in Newberg, Oregon, stands as the largest private university in the state, offering a vibrant Christian educational experience. Founded by Quaker pioneers, its legacy blends a rich spiritual heritage with a forward-looking academic approach. Students here don't just learn; they grow within a community that champions a balance of 'Christianity and Culture,' preparing them for impactful lives and careers.

Tracing its origins back to Friends Pacific Academy in 1885, the institution evolved through various names—Pacific College and George Fox College—before merging with Western Evangelical Seminary in 1996 to become the George Fox University we know today. This history is marked by significant figures, including Herbert Hoover, who was an early student, and his uncle, H.J. Minthorn, the school's first president. The university's commitment to excellence is reflected in its award-winning faculty and continued growth, with a student body that has expanded by over 500% since 1986.

Life at George Fox is dynamic, characterized by a strong sense of community and the lively spirit of the Bruins, their NCAA Division III athletic teams. The unique tradition of 'Bruin brawls' for possession of Bruin Jr., the mascot, speaks to the engaging student experience. With modern facilities like Brandt Hall and Canyon Commons, and a recently dedicated chapel, George Fox fosters an environment where students can thrive academically, spiritually, and socially, preparing them to engage with the world.

Key Highlights

  • Largest private university in Oregon with over 4,000 students across multiple campuses and online programs.
  • Founded by Quaker pioneers in 1891, upholding a strong Christian affiliation with the Evangelical Friends Church International.
  • NCAA Division III athletics competing as the Bruins in the Northwest Conference.
  • Boasts a substantial endowment of $32.2 million (2021).
  • Notable early student: former U.S. President Herbert Hoover, whose uncle was the first president of the academy.
  • Experienced over 500% growth in student enrollment since 1986.
  • Recipient of prestigious faculty awards, including Oregon Professor of the Year and National Directing Fellow Award.

Timeline

1885
Founded as Friends Pacific Academy by Quaker pioneers
1891
Became a college, renamed Pacific College
1925
Became a four-year institution
1947
Western Evangelical Seminary established (later merged with GFC)
1949
Name changed to George Fox College, honoring the founder of the Quaker movement
1996
Merged with Western Evangelical Seminary to form George Fox University
2000
Associate Professor Dwight Kimberly received Oregon Professor of the Year award
2010
Associate Professor Rhett Luedtke received National Directing Fellow Award
2015
Brandt Hall, a new residence hall, was completed
2016
Canyon Commons, a new dining hall, opened
2024
The university's first dedicated chapel was dedicated

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within George Fox University

🏫

Western Evangelical Seminary

Established in 1947, it merged with George Fox College in 1996 to form George Fox University, contributing to its theological programs.

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