La Sierra University

La Sierra University is a private Seventh-day Adventist university located in Riverside, California. Founded in 1922, it is part of the Adventist educational system and emphasizes a liberal arts education integrated with faith-based learning. The university is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission and offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees.

History

The institution originated in 1922 as La Sierra Academy, a secondary school established by the Southern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. It expanded into higher education in 1927 with the founding of La Sierra College, which initially offered a two-year program. A significant merger occurred in 1967 when it joined with Loma Linda University, forming Loma Linda University's liberal arts campus under the name Loma Linda University, La Sierra Campus. This partnership dissolved in 1990, leading to the re-establishment of an independent institution, which was renamed La Sierra University in 1990. Throughout its history, the university has been deeply influenced by the educational philosophy of Ellen G. White and the global mission of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Academics

The university is organized into several schools, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business, the School of Education, and the H.M.S. Richards Divinity School. It is particularly noted for its programs in biology, business administration, and digital media. The Zamorano program offers a distinctive focus on environmental science and sustainability. La Sierra operates on a quarter system and maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio, fostering close interaction with professors. Graduate offerings include master's degrees in areas such as accounting, education, and leadership, as well as a Doctor of Ministry program. The curriculum is designed to incorporate service-learning and ethical reflection, in alignment with its Adventist heritage.

Campus

The 150-acre campus is situated in the Arlington Heights area of Riverside, within the Inland Empire region. Key facilities include the Tom and Vi Zapara School of Business building, the Visitors Center, which houses the World Museum of Natural History, and the University Church of Seventh-day Adventists. The university library contains extensive collections, including the Heritage Room dedicated to Adventist history. Residential life is centered around several halls, such as Angwin Hall and Sierra Towers, and the campus features athletic complexes, art galleries, and the Earl R. Crane Park for outdoor activities.

Student life

Student life is characterized by a strong sense of community, with over 40 clubs and organizations, including chapters of the Students for International Mission Service and the Enactus team. The Associated Students of La Sierra University governs student activities and events. A distinctive aspect of campus culture is the observance of the Sabbath from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset. The Golden Eagles athletic teams compete in the NAIA as part of the California Pacific Conference, with sports including basketball, soccer, and baseball. Regular events like Week of Prayer and Community Service Day reinforce the institution's spiritual and service-oriented mission.

Notable alumni and faculty

Notable alumni include Charles C. Crider, a former president of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists; Gerald R. Winslow, a prominent bioethicist; and Michele B. Goodwin, a renowned scholar of constitutional law and health policy. Distinguished faculty have included H.M.S. Richards, founder of the Voice of Prophecy radio broadcast; Lee Grismer, an influential herpetologist; and John R. Jones, a noted historian of the American West. The university's graduates have made significant contributions in fields such as medicine, theology, public service, and the arts.

Category:Universities and colleges in California Category:Seventh-day Adventist universities and colleges in the United States Category:Educational institutions established in 1922