Messiah University

Messiah University, guided by its enduring motto "Christ Preeminent," offers a distinctive educational journey that seamlessly blends faith with academic rigor. What began in 1909 as a humble Bible school has flourished into a vibrant, non-denominational Christian university, deeply impacting its students and the wider community. It is celebrated for its unwavering commitment to faith-informed education within a broadly evangelical tradition, fostering an inclusive environment that welcomes a diverse student body and faculty from various Christian backgrounds.

Messiah's history is a testament to continuous growth and adaptation, evolving from its initial home in Harrisburg to its expansive 375-acre campus in Grantham. A true pioneer, it became Pennsylvania's second junior college by 1921, before progressively transitioning to a four-year college in the 1950s, and ultimately achieving university status in 2020. This transformative journey underscores a steadfast dedication to expanding its academic offerings, particularly in the liberal arts, while remaining true to its foundational values and Anabaptist roots.

Beyond its main campus, Messiah extends its influence through initiatives like the Harrisburg Institute, established in 2002 as an academic and research center designed to connect students with the unique needs of an urban environment. While its former Philadelphia campus partnership concluded, the university consistently emphasizes real-world engagement and service. Students at Messiah are empowered to integrate their faith with their studies, preparing them for lives of purpose, ethical leadership, and impactful service, as notably demonstrated when the university hosted the nationally televised 2008 Compassion Forum.