Introduction
Grand View University, located in Des Moines, Iowa, is a private university that offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. Founded in 1896 as a college, Grand View University has since evolved into a comprehensive university that offers a wide range of academic programs in arts and sciences, business, education, and health sciences. With a commitment to providing students with a transformative education that prepares them for the real world, Grand View University has gained a reputation as one of the top universities in the Midwest. In this blog post, we will explore some of the fun facts about Grand View University.
History of Grand View University
Grand View University was founded in 1896 as Grand View College by the Evangelical Lutheran Church. The college was established to provide education to students from the surrounding rural communities, with a focus on preparing them for careers in teaching, ministry, and business. Over the years, the college expanded its academic programs and became a four-year institution in 1961. In 2008, Grand View College officially changed its name to Grand View University to reflect its status as a comprehensive university. Today, Grand View University offers over 40 undergraduate majors and six graduate programs, and it has a diverse student body from all over the world.
Unique Academic Programs
Grand View University is known for its unique academic programs that provide students with hands-on, real-world experience. One such program is the Viking Theatre Company, which is a student-run theatre group that produces four shows per year. The group is open to all students, regardless of their major, and it provides them with the opportunity to gain practical experience in theatre production, acting, and stage management. Another unique program is the Grand View University Choir, which is a select group of singers that performs at various events throughout the year. The choir is open to all students, and it provides them with the opportunity to develop their musical skills and perform in front of audiences.
Athletics at Grand View University
Grand View University has a strong athletic program that includes 20 varsity sports teams. The university is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and the Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC). The Grand View Vikings have won numerous conference championships and national titles in sports such as wrestling, football, and volleyball. The university also has state-of-the-art athletic facilities, including the Johnson Wellness Center, which features an indoor track, a weight room, and a pool.
Campus Life at Grand View University
Grand View University has a vibrant campus life that includes a variety of student clubs and organizations. These organizations cover a wide range of interests, from academic and professional groups to cultural and social clubs. Some of the most popular student organizations include the Campus Activities Board, which plans events such as concerts, comedians, and movies, and the Student Government Association, which represents the student body and advocates for their needs and concerns. The university also has a strong Greek life community, with six fraternities and sororities on campus.
Community Service at Grand View University
Grand View University has a strong commitment to community service, and it encourages students to get involved in service projects both on and off campus. The university has a Center for Community Engagement that coordinates service opportunities for students, such as volunteering at local schools and non-profit organizations. In addition, many academic programs at Grand View University include a service-learning component that allows students to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world situations and make a positive impact in their community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Grand View University is a unique and fascinating institution with a rich history and many interesting features. From its strong athletic programs to its commitment to sustainability, Grand View is a dynamic and forward-thinking university that has much to offer its students and the wider community. We hope that this article has given you a glimpse into the many fun facts and intriguing aspects of this remarkable school. Whether you are a current student, an alum, or simply curious about this vibrant university, we encourage you to explore all that Grand View has to offer and discover even more fascinating facts and features of this remarkable institution.
