John Brown University

John Brown University, a distinguished private institution founded in 1919, stands firm on its inspiring motto, "Christ Over All." With a vibrant community of 2,343 students, JBU is renowned for its commitment to holistic education that integrates strong academics with real-world applicability, all within a Christ-centered environment. Under the leadership of President Charles "Chip" Pollard, the university continues to uphold its unique vision for preparing students for meaningful lives and careers.

The university's roots trace back to its visionary founder, John E. Brown, whose personal journey profoundly shaped JBU's mission. Brown, born in 1879, began working at age 11 due to financial hardships, eventually becoming an itinerant Methodist evangelist after a transformative conversion experience. His tenure as president of Scarritt College cemented his belief that education must offer more than just "book knowledge," advocating for a curriculum that also provided essential "life training." As he expressed in 1903, he aimed to build a school that would help youth realize that academic knowledge is valuable primarily "as it becomes a background for, or the foundation under, the real things of life."

This founding philosophy remains central to the John Brown University experience today. Prospective students and families will find an institution dedicated to fostering intellectual growth alongside character development and practical skills. JBU offers an engaging academic journey where faith is not merely an add-on but an integral part of learning, preparing graduates to navigate complex world challenges with competence, integrity, and a profound sense of purpose. It's an education designed to equip individuals not just for a career, but for a life lived fully and purposefully.