University of Denver

The University of Denver (DU), a distinguished private research university, traces its roots back to 1864 when it was founded by former Colorado Territory Governor John Evans as the Colorado Seminary. Established in the burgeoning city of Denver, then a dynamic mining camp, DU has a rich history intertwined with the growth of the American West. Its guiding principle, embodied in its Latin motto 'Pro Scientia et Religione' (For Knowledge and Religion), reflects its commitment to comprehensive education from its very inception.

Though initially facing early struggles, the institution was renamed the University of Denver in 1880, solidifying its academic aspirations. Its original downtown Denver location eventually gave way to a strategic relocation to its present campus, built on land generously donated by potato farmer Rufus Clark, fostering an environment more conducive to learning away from the bustling frontier town. This move allowed the university to grow in tandem with Denver's expansion, attracting a significant regional student body for decades.

A pivotal moment arrived after World War II, as the influx of G.I. Bill students propelled DU's enrollment to an unprecedented high of over 13,000, significantly broadening its reputation to a national audience. Today, with a robust endowment of $1.1 billion and a vibrant student community of 12,813, the University of Denver continues its legacy as a leading private research institution, offering a dynamic and engaging educational experience.