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Roberts Wesleyan University

Rochester, NY

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1,065
Total Students
$38K
Tuition (In-State)
$38K
Tuition (Out-State)
$23K
Avg Net Price
78%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Graduation Rate
6-year
77%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

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

About Roberts Wesleyan University

Roberts Wesleyan: Cultivating servant leaders since 1866, rooted in justice and Wesleyan tradition.

Roberts Wesleyan University, established in 1866, stands as a testament to its founder Benjamin Titus Roberts' pioneering spirit. Originally known as "Chili Seminary," the institution was conceived to nurture young minds into servant leaders of high moral character. Roberts, a passionate advocate for social justice, anti-slavery, and women's rights, infused his progressive values into the school's very foundation, creating a legacy of community engagement and ethical leadership that continues to define the university today.

From its humble beginnings in a local tavern to the erection of its first dedicated building in 1869, Roberts Wesleyan has undergone significant transformations. It evolved through various names—including Chesbrough Seminary and Roberts Junior College—before embracing its identity as Roberts Wesleyan College in 1949, marking its transition to a four-year baccalaureate institution firmly rooted in the Wesleyan theological tradition. This journey culminated in its latest designation as Roberts Wesleyan University in 2022, signifying its expansive academic offerings and commitment to higher education.

Prospective students and families will discover a university deeply committed to holistic development. While its roots are in fostering moral character, Roberts Wesleyan has expanded to include a dedicated graduate school of theology, Northeastern Seminary, established in 1998. The campus itself, rich with history embodied in buildings like Cox Hall and Carpenter Hall, offers an environment where students are encouraged to grow intellectually, spiritually, and as leaders prepared to make a tangible difference in the world. The university's enduring mission ensures an experience focused on impact and purpose.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1866 as "Chili Seminary" by social activist Benjamin Titus Roberts.
  • ✦Founder Benjamin Titus Roberts was a proponent of women's right to vote and opposed slavery.
  • ✦Transitioned to Roberts Wesleyan University in 2022, following approval from the NY State Education Department.
  • ✦Northeastern Seminary, its graduate school of theology, was established in 1998.
  • ✦Rupert A. Hayles Jr. commenced his role as the 12th president on July 1, 2023.
  • ✦Emphasizes training young people to become servant leaders with high moral character.

Timeline

1866
Founded as "Chili Seminary" by Benjamin Titus Roberts
1869
First three-story brick building erected
1885
Name changed to "Chesbrough Seminary"
1892
Cox Hall and Roberts Hall completed
1935
Carpenter Hall opened
1945
Renamed "Roberts Junior College"
1949
Renamed "Roberts Wesleyan College" to signify baccalaureate transition
1998
Northeastern Seminary established as its graduate school of theology
2022
Renamed "Roberts Wesleyan University"
2023
Rupert A. Hayles Jr. began as the 12th president

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Roberts Wesleyan University

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Northeastern Seminary

Roberts Wesleyan University's graduate school of theology, established in 1998

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