Ohio Northern University
Ada, OH
Quick Facts
“Ex diversitate vires (Latin)”("Out of diversity strength")
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Ohio Northern University
Ohio Northern University: A historic institution fostering diverse professional excellence since 1871.
Step into the vibrant legacy of Ohio Northern University, a private institution founded in 1871 that has continuously evolved to meet the demands of a changing world. From its humble beginnings as the "Northwestern Ohio Normal School," ONU swiftly expanded its curriculum to embrace vital professional fields like pharmacy, engineering, law, and business, reflecting its enduring commitment to comprehensive education. This dedication to growth and service led to its affiliation with the United Methodist Church in 1899 and its eventual renaming to Ohio Northern University, solidifying its identity as a forward-thinking academic hub.
ONU's history is a testament to its resilience and unwavering spirit. The university navigated significant national challenges, including the low enrollment periods during the Great Depression and World War II, only to rebound stronger, particularly with the support of the G.I. Bill. Beyond academic growth, Ohio Northern played a meaningful role in the American Civil Rights Movement, notably hosting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968—an event of profound historical significance honored by a campus statue unveiled in 2018. This rich past underscores ONU's commitment to social justice and its integral place in the broader historical narrative.
Prospective students will find a dynamic academic environment centered around excellence in its professional colleges. ONU boasts modern facilities that support advanced study in engineering, law, pharmacy, and the sciences, continually enhancing the learning experience. From the expansion of the Robertson-Evans Pharmacy building to the state-of-the-art Mathile Center for the Natural Sciences and a new engineering building opened in 2019, students are equipped with the resources needed to excel. With a community of over 3,000 students and a motto of "Ex diversitate vires" (From diversity, strength), Ohio Northern University offers an engaging and supportive atmosphere for future leaders.
Key Highlights
- ✦Founded in 1871 as the "Northwestern Ohio Normal School," evolving into a comprehensive university.
- ✦A private institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church since 1899.
- ✦Showcased remarkable resilience, bouncing back from low enrollment during the Great Depression and WWII.
- ✦Hosted Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968, a pivotal moment in its history, commemorated by a statue.
- ✦Offers robust professional programs, including Pharmacy, Engineering, Law, and Business.
- ✦Home to 3,042 students, fostering a close-knit and supportive academic community.
- ✦Boasts an endowment of $0.2 billion, supporting continued growth and excellence.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
4 notable schools within Ohio Northern University
College of Pharmacy
One of the key professional programs established as the university's curriculum expanded beyond its normal school origins.
College of Engineering
A robust professional program that became a core part of the university's curriculum, supported by significant facility expansions.
Pettit College of Law
A prominent professional school that was integrated into the university's expanding academic offerings.
Dicke College of Business Administration
An important professional program added as the university broadened its academic scope.
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