Wayland Baptist University

Wayland Baptist University, established in 1908 in Plainview, Texas, stands as a testament to enduring educational commitment and pioneering spirit. Guided by its mottos, including "Let There Be Light," this private university offers a robust and diverse academic experience rooted in its Baptist heritage. With a significant student body of 9,341, Wayland has grown far beyond its Texas origins, now serving students across 10 satellite campuses nationwide, providing accessible education with a steadfast commitment to its mission.

Historically, Wayland Baptist University holds a unique place in American education. Founded through the vision of James Henry Wayland, it persevered through challenges like the Great Depression, with faculty even foregoing pay to keep its doors open. Most notably, in 1951, Wayland became the first four-year liberal arts college in the former Confederate states to voluntarily integrate, admitting Black students three years before the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision. This bold step underscores a deep-seated commitment to progress and inclusivity that has defined the institution for decades.

Academically, Wayland Baptist University offers a comprehensive range of programs across eight distinct schools, including the Schools of Business, Nursing, Education, and the well-established School of Mathematics and Sciences. The latter, housed in the Moody Science Building, offers degrees in biology, chemistry, geology, and various pre-professional fields, serving over 400 students each semester. The university is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Texas Education Agency, ensuring high standards for its diverse educational offerings and teacher training programs.

Today, Wayland continues to evolve under dynamic leadership, with Donna Hedgepath becoming the first woman president in July 2024. For prospective students and families, Wayland Baptist University represents an institution with a rich history, a broad academic portfolio, and a forward-looking approach to education that prepares graduates for meaningful careers and lives, all within a framework of strong ethical and faith-based values.