The History of John Brown University
John Brown University’s rich history began with an enthusiastic evangelist, radio pioneer, educator, and author, John E. Brown, who recognized the need for an academic institution that would prepare young people to serve Christ. In 1919, with a goal of educating the “Head, Heart, and Hand,” John Brown laid the foundation for the institution that would later be called John Brown University. The vision of JBU has been carried through its ninety-eight year history by the leadership of the founder, his son, John Brown Jr., his grandson, John Brown III, and Presidents George Ford, Lee Balzer, and now Charles Pollard.
Head
The university offers an education based on a liberal arts Core Curriculum and 43 undergraduate majors. Also available at JBU are academic opportunities for professionals and graduates. The JBU Degree Completion Program (now known as JBU Online Undergraduate) was established in 1993 to meet the needs of working adults and allows them to complete their undergraduate degree. In 1995, JBU began offering graduate classes. The Graduate School offers master’s degrees in Business, Counseling, Fine Arts, and Teacher Education.
Heart
Since its founding, JBU has sought to nourish the spiritual life of its students. Professors and students work together to integrate a Christian worldview with their understanding and practice of academic disciplines. Professors and staff also make themselves available to guide and mentor students in the faith.
Within the JBU community, there are a variety of opportunities for students to deepen and live out their faith. Chapel services are held three times a week and feature dynamic worship and gifted guest speakers. A wide variety of ministry opportunities are offered to students through the Office of Christian Formation.
Hand
Students also gain valuable professional and personal life-skills that equip them to serve in business, education, industry, ministry, the arts, and a variety of other fields. Students and graduates are encouraged to integrate faith in the workplace and in every area of their lives.
While the scope of JBU’s mission has grown over the last 98 years, the central direction of that mission has remained the same: “Christ Over All.”
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