Introduction
Founded in 1845, Baylor University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United States. Located in Waco, Texas, the university has a long and storied history and is known for its commitment to academic excellence, spiritual development, and service to the community. From its humble beginnings as a small Baptist school to its current status as one of the largest private universities in the nation, Baylor has a long and proud tradition of excellence. Here are 20 fun facts about Baylor University that you may not have known.
The Oldest Building on Campus
The oldest building on the Baylor campus is Pat Neff Hall, which was built in 1887. The building was originally named Memorial Hall and was dedicated to the memory of Baylor’s first president, Rufus C. Burleson. The building served as the university’s main administrative building until the 1950s, when it was renamed in honor of Pat Neff, who served as Baylor’s president from 1922 to 1932. Today, Pat Neff Hall houses the offices of the president, the provost, and the vice presidents.
The Largest Library in Texas
Baylor University has the largest library in the state of Texas. The library, known as the Armstrong Browning Library, is home to the world’s largest collection of works by Victorian poets Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning. The library also houses a rare book collection, a special collection of manuscripts, and a large selection of art and artifacts.
The Most Prestigious Honors College
Baylor is home to the most prestigious honors college in Texas. The Honors College at Baylor is dedicated to providing a rigorous academic experience for students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement. The college offers a variety of honors courses, research opportunities, and study abroad programs.
The Most Successful Football Program
Baylor is home to one of the most successful football programs in the nation. The Bears have won two national championships, made 11 bowl appearances, and won 11 conference championships. The football team has also produced a number of All-Americans and NFL players.
The Most Famous Alumni
Baylor has produced a number of famous alumni, including former President George W. Bush, former First Lady Laura Bush, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, and NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Robert Griffin III. Other notable alumni include actor Chuck Norris, singer/songwriter Kacey Musgraves, and former NFL quarterback Art Briles.
The Most Popular Clubs and Organizations
Baylor has a wide variety of clubs and organizations for students to get involved in. Some of the most popular clubs and organizations include the Baylor Interfraternity Council, the Baylor Student Government Association, and the Baylor University Women’s Club.
The Most Popular Mascot
The most popular mascot at Baylor is Judge, the bear. Judge was adopted as the official mascot in 1914 and has been a beloved symbol of the university ever since. Judge is often seen at sporting events and other university functions, and his image can be found on many of the university’s official merchandise.
The Most Popular Traditions
Baylor has a number of popular traditions that are celebrated on campus each year. Some of the most popular traditions include the Line Camp, the Baylor Homecoming Parade, the Baylor-TCU rivalry, and the Baylor-Texas A&M rivalry.
The Oldest Living Graduate
Baylor is home to the oldest living graduate in the United States. Dr. Sarah Elizabeth “Sally” Davis graduated from Baylor in 1922 and is now 103 years old. Dr. Davis is an active member of the Baylor Alumni Association and is a frequent visitor to the campus.
The Most Famous Building
The most famous building on the Baylor campus is the Waco Suspension Bridge. The bridge, which was built in 1870, is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States and is a popular spot for viewing the Brazos River.
The Most Popular Tourist Attraction
The most popular tourist attraction on the Baylor campus is the Mayborn Museum Complex. The museum complex is home to a variety of exhibits and interactive displays, including a replica of a 19th century Texas town and a dinosaur exhibit.
The Most Popular Student Hangout
The most popular student hangout on the Baylor campus is the Student Union Building. The building is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, as well as a movie theater and bowling alley.
The Most Popular Dormitory
The most popular dormitory on the Baylor campus is Penland Hall. The building, which was built in 1963, is home to over 1,000 students and is one of the largest dormitories in the nation.
The Most Popular Place to Study
The most popular place to study on the Baylor campus is the Moody Memorial Library. The library, which was built in 1970, is home to a variety of books, magazines, and other resources, as well as a large selection of study spaces.
The Most Popular Place to Eat
The most popular place to eat on the Baylor campus is the Bear’s Den Café. The café, which is located in the Student Union Building, is home to a variety of fast-food items, as well as a full-service restaurant.
The Most Popular Place to Shop
The most popular place to shop on the Baylor campus is the Baylor Bookstore. The bookstore, which is located in the Student Union Building, is home to a variety of textbooks, apparel, and other Baylor-related merchandise.
The Most Popular Place to Hang Out
The most popular place to hang out on the Baylor campus is the Bill Daniel Student Center. The center, which was built in 1963, is home to a variety of student organizations, a game room, and a coffee shop.
The Most Popular Place to Take a Break
The most popular place to take a break on the Baylor campus is the Burleson Quadrangle. The quadrangle, which is located in the heart of the campus, is home to a variety of benches, tables, and other seating areas.
The Most Popular Place to Have Fun
The most popular place to have fun on the Baylor campus is the McLane Student Life Center. The center, which was built in 2004, is home to a variety of recreational activities, including a swimming pool, basketball courts, and a rock-climbing wall.”