Introduction
Brigham Young University-Hawaii (BYU-Hawaii) is a private university located in Laie, Hawaii, on the beautiful North Shore of Oahu. Established in 1955, BYU-Hawaii is one of the most prestigious universities in the United States and is often referred to as the “Harvard of the Pacific.” With a rich history and an impressive list of alumni, BYU-Hawaii has a lot to offer potential students. Here are some fun facts about BYU-Hawaii that you may not know:
The University’s Founding
BYU-Hawaii was founded in 1955 by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). Brigham Young, the second president of the LDS Church, had a vision to create a university in Hawaii to serve the educational needs of the Pacific Islands. He wanted to create a place that would provide a quality education to LDS youth, as well as to non-LDS students from around the world.
BYU-Hawaii was established as a two-year college, with the first classes beginning in October 1955. In 1956, it became a four-year college, and in 1959, it was granted university status. Today, BYU-Hawaii is a four-year university offering bachelor’s degrees in a variety of fields, including business, education, engineering, and science.
The University’s Location
BYU-Hawaii is located in Laie, a small town on the North Shore of Oahu. The university sits on a beautiful stretch of beach and is surrounded by lush tropical foliage. The campus is also home to the Polynesian Cultural Center, which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hawaii.
The University’s Student Body
BYU-Hawaii has a diverse student body, with students from over 70 countries around the world. The student body is also made up of a variety of faiths, including LDS, Catholic, Protestant, and non-religious. The university is committed to providing a quality education to all of its students, regardless of their faith or background.
The University’s Academic Programs
BYU-Hawaii offers a variety of academic programs, including business, education, engineering, and science. The university also offers a number of special programs, such as the International Exchange Program, which allows students to study abroad in countries such as New Zealand, Australia, and Japan.
The University’s Athletics
BYU-Hawaii has a strong athletics program, with teams competing in the NCAA Division II. The university is home to the Seasiders, a competitive basketball team that has won numerous conference championships. The university also has a competitive track and field team, as well as a competitive swimming team.
The University’s Alumni
BYU-Hawaii has an impressive list of alumni, including many notable figures from the business, entertainment, and political worlds. Some of the university’s most prominent alumni include former U.S. Senator Daniel Inouye, former U.S. Representative Neil Abercrombie, and former NBA player and coach Mark Jackson.
Conclusion
BYU-Hawaii is a prestigious university with a rich history and a diverse student body. With a variety of academic programs, competitive athletics, and a list of notable alumni, BYU-Hawaii has a lot to offer potential students. Whether you’re looking for a quality education or just some fun facts about the university, BYU-Hawaii is sure to have something for you.