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Southwestern Adventist University

Keene, TX

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1893
Founded
Private university
Type
574
Total Students
$25K
Tuition (In-State)
$25K
Tuition (Out-State)
$21K
Avg Net Price
56%
Acceptance Rate
41%
Graduation Rate
6-year
70%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Ana Patterson

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

About Southwestern Adventist University

Experience faith, community, and academic growth at the heart of Adventist education in the Southwest.

Southwestern Adventist University offers a distinctive educational experience rooted in its strong Seventh-day Adventist heritage. Located in Keene, Texas, a unique "company town" known for its vibrant Adventist community, the university serves as a spiritual and academic hub for the region. Prospective students and their families will discover a supportive environment where faith is integrated into daily life and learning, anchored by the multi-thousand member Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church, which also serves as the university church.

Established in 1893 as Keene Industrial Academy, the university boasts a rich and resilient history. Its initial funding came from dedicated Seventh-day Adventists in the Dallas area, and its first building in 1894 served dual purposes as both a school and a church. Over more than a century, the institution has steadily evolved, adopting its current name, Southwestern Adventist University, in 1996, reflecting its growth and expanded academic scope. This evolution has solidified its position as the largest Adventist community within the Southwestern Union, encompassing Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and New Mexico.

Today, led by President Ana Patterson, Southwestern Adventist University continues its mission to provide a holistic education. While specific academic programs are not detailed, the university's enduring presence and growth suggest a commitment to preparing students for purposeful lives through a blend of academic rigor and spiritual development. Students here become part of a close-knit community that values faith, service, and personal growth, preparing them to thrive in their chosen fields and make a positive impact on the world.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1893 as Keene Industrial Academy, making it a historic institution in Adventist education.
  • ✦Located in Keene, Texas, a unique "company town" with a strong Seventh-day Adventist identity, where most stores close on the Sabbath.
  • ✦Serves as the hub for the largest Adventist community within the Southwestern Union, spanning five states (TX, AR, OK, LA, NM).
  • ✦Home to the multi-thousand member Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church, which also serves as the university church.
  • ✦Evolved from an academy to university status, officially adopting its current name, Southwestern Adventist University, in 1996.
  • ✦Led by President Ana Patterson, guiding its mission as a private university.

Timeline

1893
Founded as Keene Industrial Academy
1894
First building completed, also used as a church
1944
West Hall boys' dormitory destroyed by fire, resulting in two student fatalities
1996
Adopted its current name, Southwestern Adventist University
🏛️
133 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Ana Patterson
President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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