Roosevelt University
Chicago, IL
Quick Facts
“"Dedicated to the enlightenment of the human spirit"”
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Roosevelt University
Founded on radical inclusivity, Roosevelt champions social justice in the heart of Chicago.
Roosevelt University stands as a unique and vibrant institution in the heart of Chicago, known for its deep-rooted commitment to social justice and academic excellence. From its inception, it has championed equal access to education, fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that prepares students to make a meaningful impact on the world. Its urban presence, highlighted by an iconic main campus, offers unparalleled opportunities in one of America's most exciting cities.
Born from an act of defiance against discrimination, Roosevelt University was founded in 1945 by Edward J. Sparling and a dedicated faculty who refused to comply with discriminatory quota systems. This courageous beginning set the foundation for an institution dedicated to the "enlightenment of the human spirit." Named in honor of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and later rededicated to include First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, the university embodies their progressive ideals. Its early years were marked by significant support from influential figures and organizations, quickly acquiring the historic Auditorium Building as its permanent home.
Academically, Roosevelt University offers a rich and diverse portfolio of programs across its distinct colleges. These include the Chicago College of Performing Arts; the College of Humanities, Education & Social Sciences; the College of Science, Health and Pharmacy; and the Walter E. Heller College of Business. Further expanding its academic reach and experiential learning opportunities, the university integrated Robert Morris University Illinois in 2020, adding the Robert Morris Experiential College. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities like the Wabash building in the Loop, Chicago's tallest educational building, providing a truly immersive urban campus experience alongside its Schaumburg campus.
Key Highlights
- ✦Founded in 1945 on principles of radical inclusivity, defying discriminatory quotas to ensure equal access to education.
- ✦Prominently located in Chicago, featuring the historic Auditorium Building and the Wabash building, Chicago's tallest educational building.
- ✦Houses the Chicago College of Performing Arts, Walter E. Heller College of Business, and colleges for Humanities/Education/Social Sciences, and Science/Health/Pharmacy.
- ✦Integrated Robert Morris University Illinois in 2020, establishing the Robert Morris Experiential College.
- ✦Supported by a substantial endowment of $0.2 billion, facilitating robust academic and student programs.
- ✦A vibrant community of 4,015 students engaged in a dynamic urban and suburban learning environment.
- ✦Early advisory board included renowned figures such as Marian Anderson, Albert Einstein, and Thomas Mann, reflecting its progressive vision.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
5 notable schools within Roosevelt University
Chicago College of Performing Arts
One of Roosevelt University's four core colleges.
College of Humanities, Education & Social Sciences
One of Roosevelt University's four core colleges, focusing on a broad range of liberal arts and education fields.
College of Science, Health and Pharmacy
One of Roosevelt University's four core colleges, dedicated to scientific and health-related disciplines.
Walter E. Heller College of Business
One of Roosevelt University's four core colleges, offering comprehensive business programs.
Robert Morris Experiential College
Established following the 2020 merger with Robert Morris University Illinois, offering experiential learning opportunities.
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