Central Michigan University

Central Michigan University
Name	Central Michigan University
Established	1892
Type	Public research university
Endowment	$200 million (approx.)
President	Robert Davies
City	Mount Pleasant
State	Michigan
Country	United States
Campus	Suburban, 1,200 acres
Students	14,000 (Fall 2023)
Faculty	850
Colors	Maroon and gold
Nickname	Chippewas
Affiliations	Mid-American Conference

Central Michigan University. Founded in 1892 as a teacher's college, it has grown into a prominent public research institution. Located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, the university is a vital part of the state's higher education system alongside peers like the University of Michigan and Michigan State University. It is classified among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity" and is known for its strong programs in health professions, business, and communication.

History

The institution was established by the Michigan Legislature as the Central Michigan Normal School and Business Institute, opening its doors to 31 students. Its early mission focused on training teachers for the Michigan public school system. In 1895, under the leadership of President Charles T. Grawn, it was renamed Central State Normal School. A significant milestone was reached in 1959 when it gained university status and adopted its current name. Throughout the 20th century, it expanded its academic scope beyond education, notably establishing the College of Medicine in 2010 through a partnership with Covenant HealthCare and other regional hospitals. Key figures in its development include President Eugene C. Warriner and the influential educator and historian, L. M. Strough.

Academics

The university is organized into seven academic colleges: the College of Business Administration, the College of Education and Human Services, the College of Health Professions, the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, the College of Science and Engineering, the College of Medicine, and the College of Graduate Studies. It offers over 200 academic programs, including doctoral degrees in fields like audiology, psychology, and physical therapy. Notable research initiatives are conducted through entities like the Center for Applied Research and Technology and the Institute for Great Lakes Research. The university maintains a strong commitment to study abroad programs and global partnerships with institutions such as Hanyang University in South Korea.

Campus

The main campus spans 1,200 acres in Mount Pleasant, featuring a mix of historic and modern architecture. The iconic Warriner Hall serves as a central administrative building, while the recently constructed Biosciences Building supports advanced STEM research. Key facilities include the Charles V. Park Library, the John G. Kulhavi Events Center, and the state-of-the-art Health Professions Building. The university also operates the 1,400-acre CMU Biological Station on Beaver Island in Lake Michigan, a premier site for ecological research. Off-campus locations include the College of Medicine's facilities in Saginaw and satellite centers in metropolitan Detroit and Traverse City.

Athletics

The university's athletic teams, known as the Chippewas, compete in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision as members of the Mid-American Conference. The football team has won multiple MAC championships and has appeared in bowl games like the Motor City Bowl. The men's basketball program has made several appearances in the NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament. Notable facilities include Kelly/Shorts Stadium and the McGuirk Arena. The program has produced professional athletes such as Antonio Brown of the NFL and Chris Kaman of the NBA, as well as Olympic gold medalist wrestler Henry Cejudo.

Student life

Student life is enriched by over 400 student organizations, including a vibrant Greek life system with chapters from the North-American Interfraternity Conference and the National Panhellenic Conference. The university's student-run newspaper, Central Michigan Life, has a long publishing history. Campus traditions include the annual Homecoming celebration and the spirited rivalry with Western Michigan University. The Office of Student Affairs oversees major events and leadership development. Residential life is centered around numerous on-campus housing complexes, and the campus is adjacent to the cultural and recreational offerings of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe's Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort.

Notable alumni

Alumni have achieved distinction in diverse fields. In broadcasting and journalism, notable figures include Jeff Daniels, Tony Scheffler, and Michele Tafoya. The political sphere includes figures like former Michigan Governor John Engler and U.S. Congressman John Moolenaar. Leaders in business include Tim D. Cook, former CEO of Kellogg Company. In sports, beyond professional athletes, influential coaches like Dick Enberg and Herb Deromedi are alumni. Other distinguished graduates include astronaut Roger K. Crouch and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Mitch Albom.

Category:Universities and colleges in Michigan Category:Public universities and colleges in the United States Category:Educational institutions established in 1892