Southwestern University

Southwestern University stands as a testament to educational resilience and innovation, proudly holding the title of Texas's first university. Its roots stretch back to 1840 with the opening of Rutersville College, eventually becoming the nexus for four pioneering educational institutions. Chartered as "Texas University" in 1870 and opening its doors in Georgetown in 1873, it was formally christened Southwestern University in 1875, ensuring its legacy as a cornerstone of higher education in the Lone Star State.

After World War II, Southwestern underwent a transformative period, purposefully transitioning into the focused liberal arts institution it is today. This strategic shift involved discontinuing post-graduate degrees and even disbanding its football team, allowing the university to dedicate its resources to a rich undergraduate experience. This commitment to a comprehensive liberal arts education shapes its academic strengths, fostering critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and a breadth of knowledge across disciplines.

Nestled in Georgetown, Southwestern University offers a vibrant and engaging student experience. Its compact size, a result of its post-WWII restructuring, allows for a close-knit community where students can thrive academically and personally. The university has a rich history of adaptation and growth, notably integrating its first African-American student in 1965, Ernest Clark, marking a significant step towards inclusivity. Today, under the leadership of President Laura Skandera Trombley, Southwestern continues its tradition of preparing students to become thoughtful, engaged citizens.