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Le Moyne-Owen College

Memphis, TN

private nonprofitHBCUbachelors

Quick Facts

“"Gubernatio. Opportunitas. Inclino."”("Leadership. Opportunity. Change.")

1968
Founded
Private, HBCU
Type
571
Total Students
$52M
Endowment
(2020)
$12K
Tuition (In-State)
$12K
Tuition (Out-State)
$9K
Avg Net Price
97%
Acceptance Rate
25%
Graduation Rate
6-year
60%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Christopher B. Davis (interim)

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

About Le Moyne-Owen College

Le Moyne-Owen College: A resilient HBCU shaping leaders in Memphis since 1862.

Le Moyne-Owen College stands as a beacon of educational opportunity and resilience in Memphis, Tennessee. As a private, historically black college and university (HBCU), it has a profound legacy of nurturing talent and fostering community leadership. Known for its enduring commitment to higher education, the college provides a vibrant academic environment where students can thrive and prepare for meaningful careers and impactful lives. Its rich history and strong community ties make it more than just a college; it's a vital institution for intellectual growth and social progress.

The college's roots stretch back to 1862, established by the American Missionary Association for free blacks and escaped slaves during the Civil War—a testament to its foundational role in providing education to underserved communities. Though facing challenges, including the destruction of its initial school during race riots, the institution persevered, fueled by dedicated leadership and philanthropic support, notably from Francis Julius LeMoyne. This spirit of resilience continued through its evolution from LeMoyne Normal and Commercial School to a four-year college and, finally, the significant 1968 merger with Owen College, solidifying its path as a crucial HBCU.

Today, Le Moyne-Owen College offers a robust curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed in a dynamic world. Despite past accreditation challenges, the college has demonstrated remarkable turnaround and growth, securing substantial financial support, including a transformative $40 million pledge in 2020, which significantly bolstered its endowment. This financial stability ensures resources for enhanced academic programs, student services, and faculty development, promising a quality and supportive experience for all its students. Choosing Le Moyne-Owen means joining a legacy of determination, excellence, and community impact.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Established in 1862, making it one of the oldest historically black colleges in the South.
  • ✦Formed by the 1968 merger of two historic church-affiliated colleges: LeMoyne College and Owen College.
  • ✦Serves 609 students as a vital private, historically black college and university (HBCU).
  • ✦Received a transformative $40 million pledge in 2020, quadrupling its endowment.
  • ✦Current endowment stands at approximately $0.1 billion, supporting institutional growth and student success.
  • ✦Steele Hall (1914) and the core campus are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Timeline

1862
LeMoyne Normal and Commercial School founded by American Missionary Association.
1866
School destroyed during white race riots in Memphis.
1871
Reopened in a new building and named LeMoyne Normal and Commercial School, thanks to a $20,000 donation from Francis Julius LeMoyne.
1924
LeMoyne became a junior college.
1930
Developed a four-year curriculum and became a four-year college.
1947
Owen College established as a junior college by the Tennessee Baptist Missionary and Educational Convention.
1968
LeMoyne College and Owen College merged to form LeMoyne-Owen College.
1979
Steele Hall listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
2007
City of Memphis pledged $3 million to help college overcome accreditation challenges.
2020
Received the largest donation in its history: a $40 million pledge from the Community Foundation of Greater Memphis.
🏛️
58 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Christopher B. Davis (interim)
President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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