LeTourneau University
Longview, TX
Quick Facts
“"Every Workplace, Every Nation."”
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About LeTourneau University
LeTourneau: Shaping Christian leaders in engineering, tech, and service for every workplace.
Founded in 1946 by the visionary R. G. LeTourneau, LeTourneau University began its journey as LeTourneau Technical Institute with a singular mission: to cultivate "Christian leaders in every workplace." Housed on the site of a former World War II hospital, the institute quickly established a groundbreaking work-study model. Students not only attended classes but also gained invaluable hands-on experience by working at the nearby LeTourneau, Inc. manufacturing plant, fostering a practical, applied approach to technical education from day one.
This unique foundation fueled a remarkable evolution. In 1961, the institution transitioned into the co-educational LeTourneau College, expanding its academic horizon to offer bachelor's degrees across engineering, technology, and a select number of arts and sciences. This marked a pivotal moment, broadening its appeal beyond its initial focus on predominantly male veterans and solidifying its commitment to comprehensive higher education while upholding its core values of integrating faith and learning.
Today, as LeTourneau University, a designation adopted in 1989, the institution continues to thrive. Under dedicated leadership, it has achieved significant milestones, including crucial accreditations for its mechanical and electrical engineering programs and extensive campus modernizations. The university's forward momentum is showcased by the ambitious "Built With Purpose" campaign, an endeavor to invest $180 million in state-of-the-art facilities like an expanded Abbott Aviation Center and a new Athletic and Human Performance Air Dome, ensuring LeTourneau remains at the forefront of innovative, purpose-driven education for future generations.
Key Highlights
- ✦Founded in 1946 with a mission to shape "Christian leaders in every workplace."
- ✦Pioneered a unique work-study model, integrating practical experience at a manufacturing plant with academic studies.
- ✦Achieved prestigious accreditation for its mechanical and electrical engineering programs by the Engineer's Council for Professional Development (now ABET).
- ✦Transformed from a technical institute into a comprehensive university offering diverse bachelor's and MBA programs.
- ✦Currently undertaking the "Built With Purpose" campaign, investing $180 million in campus expansion, including advanced aviation and athletic facilities.
- ✦Features state-of-the-art facilities such as the 2,011-seat S.E. Belcher Jr. Chapel and Performance Center and the Glaske Engineering Center.
Timeline
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