Friends University

Friends University. Founded in 1898, this private institution in Wichita, Kansas has its roots in the educational vision of the Religious Society of Friends. Originally established on the grounds of the former Garfield University, it has evolved from a small academy into a comprehensive university offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university maintains a covenant relationship with the Great Plains Yearly Meeting while welcoming students of all faiths, emphasizing a values-based education within a vibrant urban setting.

History

The institution's origins trace back to 1898 when a group of Quakers from the Indiana Yearly Meeting purchased the vacant campus of the defunct Garfield University. Under the leadership of President James A. Davis, the school initially operated as a preparatory academy and junior college, reflecting the Friends' commitment to accessible education. A significant early benefactor was James M. Davis, a prominent Wichita businessman whose financial support was instrumental in the college's early stability and growth. Throughout the 20th century, the institution expanded its academic scope, achieving university status and developing its distinctive landmark, the iconic Davis Administration Building, which anchors the historic campus. The university's governance and spiritual heritage have been sustained through its ongoing relationship with regional Quaker bodies, including the Great Plains Yearly Meeting.

Academics

The university offers a diverse array of programs through its College of Business, Arts, Sciences, and Education, the College of Adult and Professional Studies, and the Graduate School. It is particularly recognized for its strong programs in performing arts, including a renowned dance department, and business administration. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning, with many programs incorporating internships, research projects, and study abroad opportunities facilitated through partnerships with local and international organizations. The university maintains accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission and holds specialized accreditations for programs such as those in education and the health sciences. A low student-to-faculty ratio supports a personalized educational environment focused on leadership and ethical development.

Campus

The main campus is situated on the former grounds of Garfield University in the heart of Wichita, Kansas, featuring a blend of historic and modern architecture. The centerpiece is the Davis Administration Building, a Romanesque Revival structure listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Other key facilities include the Riney Fine Arts Center, which houses the performing arts departments, the Edmund Stanley Library, and the Garry L. Rose Physical Education Center. The campus also features the Casado Campus Center, a hub for student activities, and modern residential halls. Its location in Wichita provides students with access to the city's cultural institutions like the Wichita Art Museum and professional opportunities with major employers such as Spirit AeroSystems and Textron Aviation.

Athletics

The university's athletic teams, known as the Friends University Falcons, compete in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) as a member of the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference. The Falcons field teams in sports including football, basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, track and field, and competitive dance. Home games are played in facilities like the Garry L. Rose Physical Education Center and Adair-Austin Stadium. The athletics program emphasizes the NAIA's core values of character development and sportsmanship, contributing to the holistic education of student-athletes. The Falcons have captured numerous conference championships and have seen individual competitors achieve success at the national level.

Notable alumni

The university's graduates have achieved distinction across various professional fields. In the arts, notable alumni include Stanley G. Weinbaum, a pioneering science fiction author of the early 20th century. The political sphere includes figures like former Kansas State Senator Jean Schodorf. In athletics, alumni have progressed to professional ranks, such as baseball player Mike Birkbeck who pitched in Major League Baseball for the Milwaukee Brewers and New York Mets. Other distinguished graduates have made significant contributions to education, business, and community leadership, reflecting the institution's broad impact.