Introduction
Friends University is a private Christian university located in Wichita, Kansas. Founded in 1898, it is one of the oldest and most respected universities in the state. Over the years, it has earned a reputation for excellence in education, with a focus on providing students with a well-rounded education that combines academic rigor with a strong emphasis on faith and community. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about Friends University that you may not know about.
Fun Facts About Friends University
The Campus
Friends University is situated on a beautiful 50-acre campus that features a mix of historic and modern buildings. One of the most iconic buildings on campus is the Davis Administration Building, which was built in 1886 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was originally a luxury hotel before being purchased by the university in 1900. Today, it serves as the administrative hub of the university and is home to the President’s office, admissions, financial aid, and other administrative departments.
Another notable building on campus is the Casado Campus Center, which was built in 2013 and serves as the heart of student life on campus. It houses the cafeteria, coffee shop, game room, student lounge, and offices for student organizations. The building also features a large outdoor patio area that is popular with students during the warmer months.
Academics
Friends University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, fine arts, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. One of the unique aspects of the university’s academic programs is the emphasis on experiential learning. Students are encouraged to get hands-on experience through internships, research projects, and service-learning opportunities.
The university also offers a number of special programs and initiatives, such as the Honors Program, which provides high-achieving students with challenging coursework, research opportunities, and a supportive community of peers. Another notable program is the Study Abroad Program, which allows students to spend a semester or summer studying in countries such as Spain, Germany, and China.
Athletics
Friends University has a rich athletic tradition, with a strong focus on competitive sports and physical fitness. The university is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and competes in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC).
The university’s mascot is the Falcon, and the school colors are navy blue and gold. Friends University has a number of varsity sports teams, including basketball, soccer, track and field, cross country, volleyball, and golf. The university also has a strong intramural sports program, which allows students to participate in a variety of sports and activities.
Community
One of the hallmarks of Friends University is its strong sense of community. The university is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, faculty, and staff. This is reflected in the university’s mission statement, which emphasizes the importance of nurturing the whole person, including their intellectual, emotional, and spiritual growth.
The university also has a number of community outreach programs, such as the Friends University Community Orchestra, which allows members of the community to participate in a full symphony orchestra. The university also partners with local organizations to provide service-learning opportunities for students, such as volunteering at local schools, hospitals, and non-profit organizations.
Conclusion
Friends University is a truly unique institution that has a lot to offer students, faculty, and staff. From its beautiful campus to its rigorous academic programs and strong sense of community, it is clear why Friends University has earned such a respected reputation over the years. Whether you are a prospective student or simply interested in learning more about the university, we hope that these fun facts have given you a deeper appreciation for what Friends University has to offer.