Introduction
Nestled in the heart of Kansas, Tabor College is a small but vibrant institution that has been educating students for over 100 years. With a focus on Christian values and a commitment to academic excellence, Tabor has become a beloved institution in the community and beyond. In this blog post, we will explore some fun and fascinating facts about Tabor College that you may not have known.
Tabor’s Founding and History
Tabor College was founded in 1908 by members of the Mennonite Brethren Church. It was initially located in Hillsboro, Kansas, and offered only a two-year Bible program. Over time, the college expanded its offerings to include four-year degrees in a variety of fields. Today, Tabor offers over 30 majors, including business, education, and nursing.
One unique aspect of Tabor’s history is its commitment to pacifism. The Mennonite Brethren Church, which founded the college, is a denomination that has historically opposed violence and war. This commitment to peace is reflected in the college’s curriculum, which includes a mandatory course on peace and conflict resolution.
Tabor’s Athletic Achievements
Although Tabor College is a small school, its athletic teams have achieved a great deal of success over the years. Tabor’s football team has won three national championships in the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA), and its men’s basketball team has won two. In addition, Tabor has won multiple conference championships in a variety of sports, including volleyball and soccer.
One notable athlete who attended Tabor College is Sammy Baugh, a legendary quarterback who played for the Washington Redskins in the 1930s and 1940s. Baugh attended Tabor for one year before transferring to Texas Christian University, where he went on to become one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
Tabor’s Campus and Facilities
Tabor’s campus is located in the town of Hillsboro, Kansas, and covers over 50 acres. The campus includes a mix of modern and historic buildings, including several buildings that are on the National Register of Historic Places. One of the most iconic buildings on campus is the Ratzlaff Heritage Center, which was originally built in 1890 and served as a Mennonite Brethren Church until it was moved to the Tabor campus in 2007.
In recent years, Tabor has made significant investments in its facilities, including the construction of a new science center and the renovation of several dormitories. The college also boasts several unique facilities, such as a disc golf course and a ropes course, which are used for team-building activities and recreation.
Tabor’s Community and Culture
One of the defining characteristics of Tabor College is its strong sense of community and culture. The college has a relatively small student body, with just over 700 undergraduate students, which allows for a close-knit and supportive atmosphere. Tabor also has a strong commitment to service and volunteerism, with many students participating in local and global mission trips.
In addition to its academic and athletic offerings, Tabor also has a vibrant arts scene. The college’s theatre department produces several plays and musicals each year, and the music department hosts a variety of concerts and recitals. Tabor also has a strong tradition of choral music, with several choirs that perform regularly throughout the year.
Tabor’s Unique Programs
While Tabor College offers a wide range of majors and programs, there are a few that stand out as particularly unique. One of these is the Entrepreneurial Ministry Program, which combines coursework in business and entrepreneurship with theological training. This program isdesigned for students who want to use their entrepreneurial skills to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
Another unique program at Tabor is the Outdoor Leadership Program, which trains students in skills such as rock climbing, backpacking, and wilderness survival. This program is designed to prepare students for careers in outdoor recreation or to use these skills in ministry or community service.
Tabor also offers a program in Aviation, which prepares students for careers in the aviation industry as pilots, mechanics, or air traffic controllers. This program is offered in partnership with Hesston College, another Mennonite institution located just a few miles from Tabor.
Conclusion
Tabor College is a small but dynamic institution with a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence and Christian values. From its athletic achievements to its unique programs, Tabor has much to offer its students and the broader community. Whether you are interested in pursuing a career in business, aviation, or outdoor leadership, or simply want to be a part of a supportive and close-knit community, Tabor College is worth exploring further.