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Valparaiso University

Valparaiso, IN

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

In luce tua videmus lucem(In Thy light we see light)

Wikipedia
1859
Founded
Private university
Type
2,451
Total Students
2,071
Undergrad
380
Graduate
$321M
Endowment
(2025)
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification
President: Rev. Brian E. Konkol

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

About Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University: A private institution with a pioneering co-educational past.

Valparaiso University, a venerable private institution, holds a unique place in American educational history, especially as one of the nation's pioneering coeducational colleges, established back in 1859. From its inception, Valpo offered a comprehensive curriculum, welcoming both male and female students to pursue studies in math, literature, sciences, and philosophy, alongside courses emphasizing Christian faith. This forward-thinking approach laid the foundation for an educational experience deeply rooted in community and intellectual growth.

Despite facing early challenges, including a temporary closure during the Civil War era, the university was revitalized in 1873 and has since evolved into a vibrant academic community. Today, with an intimate student body of 2,451, Valparaiso University offers a close-knit learning environment where students can thrive under the guidance of dedicated faculty. Its private university status ensures a focused approach to education, cultivating personal development and academic excellence.

While the esteemed School of Law, founded in 1879 and accredited by the ABA and AALS, ultimately ceased operations, its legacy is a testament to the university's historical commitment to diverse academic pursuits. Guided by its motto, "In luce tua videmus lucem" (In Thy light we see light), Valparaiso University continues its mission to provide a transformative education, preparing students to lead lives of purpose and impact in a complex world.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1859, Valparaiso University stands as a historic institution.
  • Pioneering coeducational college, one of the first in the nation to welcome both male and female students.
  • A private university with an intimate student body of 2,451, fostering a personalized learning environment.
  • Operates with a substantial endowment of $0.3 billion.
  • Guided by its inspirational motto: "In luce tua videmus lucem" (In Thy light we see light).
  • Historically offered a robust curriculum covering math, literature, history, sciences, and philosophy from its earliest days.

Timeline

1859
Valparaiso Male and Female College founded, one of the nation's first coeducational colleges.
1871
College closed due to financial difficulties.
1873
Reopened by Henry Baker Brown as the Northern Indiana Normal School and Business Institute.
1879
Valparaiso University School of Law founded.
1929
Law School accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA).
1930
Law School accredited by the Association of American of Law Schools (AALS).
2016
Law School received censure from the ABA.
2018
University announced the closure of the Law School, with a plan for remaining students to complete degrees.
🏛️
167 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Valparaiso University

⚖️

Valparaiso University School of Law

Founded in 1879, the Law School was accredited by the American Bar Association in 1929 and the Association of American Law Schools in 1930. It achieved an 83% first-time bar pass rate in 2010. The university announced its closure in 2018, ensuring remaining students could complete their degrees.

Leadership

via Wikipedia
Rev. Brian E. Konkol
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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