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{{Short description|Christian university in Marion, Indiana, US}}
{{Infobox University
{{Infobox university
|name = Indiana Wesleyan University
| name = Indiana Wesleyan University
|image = ] |
|motto = | motto = ''Character. Scholarship. Leadership.''
| mottoeng =
|established = 1920
| image = Masterlogo.png
|type = ]
| image_size =
|affiliation = Evangelical, Wesleyan
| caption =
|endowment = $40.6 million (2006) <ref name=autogenerated1></ref>
| established = {{start date and age|1920}}
|faculty = 200
| type = ]
|president = Dr. Henry L. Smith
| endowment = $201.4 million (2020)<ref>As of June 30, 2020. {{cite report |url=https://www.nacubo.org/-/media/Documents/Research/2020-NTSE-Public-Tables--Endowment-Market-Values--FINAL-FEBRUARY-19-2021.ashx |title=U.S. and Canadian Institutions Listed by Fiscal Year 2020 Endowment Market Value and Change in Endowment Market Value from FY19 to FY20 |publisher=National Association of College and University Business Officers and ] |date=February 19, 2021 |access-date=February 20, 2021}}</ref>
|city = ]
| religious_affiliation = ]
|state = ]
| administrative_staff = 1,150
|country = ]
| faculty = 1,070
|students = 14,756<ref name=autogenerated2></ref>
| president = Jonathan Kulaga
|undergrad = 3,050<ref name=autogenerated2 />
| provost =
|postgrad = 748<ref name=autogenerated2 />
| title =
|campus = Suburban: 300 acres
| students = 10,000<ref name="indwes.edu">{{cite web|url=https://www.indwes.edu/about/quick-facts|title=Quick facts about IWU|access-date=2018-01-25|archive-date=2023-03-08|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230308041530/https://www.indwes.edu/about/quick-facts|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|free_label = Athletics
| undergrad = 2,600 (Marion campus) / 6,800 (all other campuses)<ref name="indwes.edu"/>
|free = 16 ] Division II teams,<br/>called ]
| postgrad = 535 (])
|colors = Red and Grey
|affiliations = ] | city = ]
| country = U.S.
|website =
{{Coord|40.519|-85.665|type:edu_region:US-IN|display=title,inline}}
| campus = Suburban<br />{{convert|350|acre}}
| former_names = Marion College (1920–1988)
| colors = Red & Gray<br />{{color box|#d21437}}&nbsp;{{color box|#666666}}
| sports_nickname = ]
| mascot = Wesley the Wildcat
| athletics_affiliations = {{Plain list|
* ] – ] (primary)
* NAIA – Mid-South (swimming)
* ] – Midwest
}} }}
| nobel_laureates =
'''Indiana Wesleyan University''' ('''IWU''') is a private ] ] ] college located in ] that is affiliated with the ] ]. IWU is the largest member of the ] and the second largest Evangelical university in the ] in total students, second only to ].<ref></ref> The University offers various ] (including 78 undergraduate majors) and professional educational programs leading to the ], ], ], ], ], ], ] and ] ], along with a doctoral program in Organizational Leadership. In addition, a ] degree is planned to be offered in the near future through a new accredited seminary, pending accreditation approval.
| academic_affiliations = ]
| free_label = Newspaper
| free = ''The Sojourn''
| website = {{URL|http://www.indwes.edu}}
}}

'''Indiana Wesleyan University''' ('''IWU''') is a ] ] university headquartered in ], and affiliated with the ]. It is the largest private university in Indiana.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.higheredjobs.com/InstitutionProfile.cfm?ProfileID=15053|title=Profile for Indiana Wesleyan University|publisher=HigherEdJobs|access-date=2012-11-30}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.americanexecutive.com/content/view/5756/index.php?option%3Dcom_content%26task%3Dview%26id%3D7073|title=Indiana Wesleyan University: Clearly Defined|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707133121/http://www.americanexecutive.com/content/view/5756/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7073|archive-date=2011-07-07 |access-date=2010-05-04}}</ref><ref name="About IWU">{{cite web|url=https://www.indwes.edu/about/|title= About IWU |publisher=Indwes.edu|access-date=2012-11-30}}</ref>

The university system includes IWU—Marion, where nearly 3,000 students are enrolled in traditional programs on the main campus in Marion and IWU-National & Global which consists of 6,800 adult learners who study online or onsite at 15 education centers in Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio. In addition 535 graduate students are currently enrolled at Wesley Seminary.<ref name="Dr. Jonathan Kulaga Named Indiana W">{{cite web | url=https://www.indwes.edu/news/2022/06/dr-jonathan-kulaga-named-indiana-wesleyan-university-tenth-president | title=Dr. Jonathan Kulaga Named Indiana Wesleyan University's Tenth President }}</ref>

IWU offers more than 80 undergraduate degrees and 57 graduate degrees including nine doctoral degrees. Its students represent more than 80 Christian denominations and come from 11 countries.<ref name="About IWU"/>


==History== ==History==
IWU's campus was known first as Marion Normal College (1890–1912) and then as Marion Normal Institute (1912–1918).<ref name="ReferenceB">{{cite web|url=http://www.indwes.edu/About/IWU-Story/ |title=Christian College Indiana Wesleyan University - The IWU Story &#124; Indiana Wesleyan University |publisher=Indwes.edu |date=2006-07-01 |access-date=2012-11-30}}</ref>
The University mission states: "Indiana Wesleyan University is a ]-centered academic community committed to changing the world by developing students in character, scholarship, and leadership." IWU's original campus, well recognized in ] for teacher education and a college of business, was known first as Marion Normal College (1890-1912) and then reopened as Marion Normal Institute (1912-1918).


In 1918 the Marion Normal Institute relocated to ], joining the Indiana Normal Institute to form what would eventually become known as ]. Because the Indiana Conference of The Wesleyan Methodist Church operated the Fairmount Bible School 10 miles south of Marion, a group of local citizens asked them to move to the vacant property and open a normal school in Marion. So in 1918 – 1919 the church raised $100,000 to endow the school, moved the Fairmont Bible School to Marion, and added a new teacher education program to become Marion College. The actual year of incorporation was 1919; however, the first classes were not offered until the fall of 1920, which became the official year of inception. In 1918, the Marion Normal Institute relocated to ], and merged with the Indiana Normal Institute. After the union failed, the buildings and grounds were purchased for the state of Indiana and formed the basis for ]. Because the Indiana Conference of the Wesleyan Methodist Church operated the ] Bible School {{convert|10|mi|km}} south of Marion, local citizens asked them to move to the vacant property and open a normal school in Marion. So from 1918 to 1919 the conference raised $100,000 to endow the school, moved the Fairmount Bible School to Marion, and added a new teacher education program to become Marion College. The actual year of incorporation was 1919; however, the first classes were not offered until the fall of 1920, which became the official year of inception.<ref name="Elder, Marjorie 1994">Elder, Marjorie. ''The Lord, The Landmarks, The Life''. Marion: Indiana Wesleyan University, 1994.</ref>


From 1920 to 1988, Marion College operated as a developing liberal arts institution with growing programs, offering the Bachelor of Arts and the Bachelor of Science degrees since the first graduating class of 1921. A Master of Arts in Theology was begun in 1924 and offered continuously until 1950. Master’s degree programs were initiated again in 1979 in Ministerial Education and Community Health Nursing. Master’s degree programs were begun in Business in 1988, in Primary Care Nursing in 1994, and in Counseling in 1995. From 1920 to 1988, Marion College operated as a developing liberal arts institution with growing programs, offering Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees since the first graduating class of 1921. A Master of Arts in Theology was begun in 1924 and offered continuously until 1950. Master's degree programs were initiated again in 1979 in Ministerial Education and Community Health Nursing. Master's degree programs were begun in Business in 1988, in Primary Care Nursing in 1994, and in Counseling in 1995.


Having already established a liberal arts college, in 1983, university leadership decided to begin offering courses and degrees to working adults during evening hours and Saturdays, forming what would eventually become IWU National & Global. This decision proved to be very successful and massively affected IWU's future, eventually eliminating the school's sizable debt and funding the revitalization and expansion of the Marion campus, transforming the college into a major evangelical Christian university. To this day, IWU National & Global provides the majority of the funding used in campus renovation and construction projects, keeping student ] at a relatively low level compared with other similar colleges.
A new administration was initiated by the Board of Trustees with the presidency of Dr. James Barnes in 1987. The name of the institution was changed to Indiana Wesleyan University, reflecting the influence of the institution across the state - well beyond the boundaries of the city of Marion, its connection with The Wesleyan Church and Christian higher education, and the development of increasing numbers of graduate programs.


Enrollment in IWU National & Global has grown substantially since 1985 when the first courses were offered. IWU has grown by more than 200 percent since 1990 to educate nearly 14,000 students, over 10,000 of whom are taking courses online or at IWU National & Global's regional Education Centers in Indiana, ], and ]. Site-based classes are held at 14 Education Centers: ] North and West, ], ], ], ], and Marion, Indiana; ], ], ] and ]; ], ], and ]. Programs are also available at a number of learning sites located throughout Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio. Since 1997, most of these programs have been available online.<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://www.indwes.edu/about/locations/ | title=Locations &#124; Indiana Wesleyan University}}</ref>
Having already established a solid liberal arts college, in 1983, University leadership decided to begin offering courses and degrees to working adults during evening hours and Saturdays, forming what would eventually become the innovative College of Adult and Professional Studies (CAPS). This decision proved to be very successful and massively affected IWU’s future, wiping out the school's sizable debt and funding the expansion and revitalization of the Marion campus, eventually transforming the college into a major evangelical Christian university. The CAPS program provides the majority of the funding used in campus renovation and construction projects, keeping student ] at a relatively low level compared with other similar colleges.


A new administration was initiated by the board of trustees with the presidency of Dr. James Barnes in 1987. The name of the institution was changed to Indiana Wesleyan University in 1988, reflecting the influence of the institution across the state - well beyond the boundaries of the city of Marion, its connection with the Wesleyan Church and Christian higher education, and the development of increasing numbers of graduate programs.<ref name="Elder, Marjorie 1994"/>
Enrollment in the CAPS program has grown tremendously since 1985 when the first courses were offered. IWU has grown by more than 200 percent since 1990 to educate nearly 15,000 students, 11,500 of whom are taking courses online or at IWU's CAPS educational centers in Indiana, ], and ]. Site-based classes are held at 11 education and conference centers: ] (2), ], ], ], and ]; ] and ]; and ], ], and ]. Classes are also held at more than 80 off-campus locations in Indiana. Many private universities across the country are attempting to copy IWU's successful program.


Barnes served as president from 1987 to 2006 and is credited with transforming IWU from a small, struggling Christian college into one of the largest and most successful evangelical Christian universities in the world. Barnes served as the university's first ] from 2006 to 2010. In 2006 Dr. Henry Smith succeeded Barnes as president. In 2010, the Student Center was renamed the Barnes Student Center, in his honor.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indwes.edu/About/iwu_profile.htm |title=Indiana Wesleyan University |access-date=2007-07-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070704214238/http://www.indwes.edu/about/iwu_profile.htm |archive-date=2007-07-04}}</ref>
In 2000, the University organized its academic structure into three colleges; the College of Arts and Sciences (traditional four-year liberal arts education), the College of Graduate Studies (traditional semester-based graduate degrees), and the College of Adult and Professional Studies (non-traditional, accelerated programs for working adults).


In 2008, the Board of Trustees approved a motion to begin the process of establishing ] at Indiana Wesleyan University, an evangelical ] affiliated with both the university and the Wesleyan Church. In 2009, the seminary was approved and accredited and opened for the fall 2009 semester. It offers the ] degree along with other graduate theological degrees and has its own building, a result of the university receiving a substantial donation from the ], owners of the ] corporation. Wesley is the first officially affiliated seminary in the history of the Wesleyan Church.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.indwes.edu/alumni/graphics/2008-Spring-Triangle.pdf |title=Indiana Wesleyan University |publisher=Indwes.edu |date=2012-11-01 |access-date=2012-11-30 }}{{dead link|date=November 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><ref>http://www.indwes.edu/news/ArchiveNews/2009/Seminary-to-Open-At-Indiana-Wesleyan-University.htm {{dead link|date=February 2017}}</ref>
IWU is currently the fastest-growing university and the largest ] in Indiana. Among the 105 members of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (the main organization of evangelical colleges in the US and Canada), IWU is by far its largest member with nearly 15,000 students enrolled as of September 2007. The next largest member, ], has less than 8,000 students. The University currently employs more than 200 full-time faculty, over 400 full-time administrative and staff members, and more than 700 adjunct faculty members.


In 2012 Smith announced his resignation as president and reassignment as chancellor. He was succeeded as president by Dr. David Wright, who was inaugurated in 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Beigh|first1=Derek|title=Indiana Wesleyan University Inaugurates President|url=http://indianaeconomicdigest.com/main.asp?SectionID=31&subsectionID=180&articleID=71556|website=Indiana Economic Digest|publisher=Chronicle-Tribune|access-date=2014-07-25}}</ref>
On July 1, 2006, Dr. Henry Smith succeeded Dr. James Barnes as president of IWU. Dr. Barnes served as president from 1987-2006 and is credited with transforming IWU from a small, struggling Christian college into one of the largest and most successful evangelical Christian universities in the world. Dr. Barnes now serves as University ].<ref></ref>


In 2013, the board of trustees voted to acquire Wesley Institute (now ]), in ], Australia, to create IWU's first international campus.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.insideindianabusiness.com/newsitem.asp?ID=61725 |title=Indiana Wesleyan Expanding to Australia, (10 July 2013), InsideIndianaBusiness.com |access-date=2017-03-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150610231955/http://www.insideindianabusiness.com/newsitem.asp?ID=61725 |archive-date=10 June 2015}}</ref>
==Wesley Seminary==
] is a proposed ] ] ] affiliated with the Wesleyan Church denomination that will be located on the campus of IWU. In 2008, IWU administrators and the Board of Trustees endorsed the concept of the seminary. The seminary is currently under consideration to be ] by the ] of the ] and is expected to launched in the fall of 2009, pending accreditation approval. Wesley would be the first seminary in the history of the Wesleyan Church, which is one of the only Evangelical denominations that does not currently require pastors to hold a seminary degree for ]. The seminary would offer the Master of Divinity degree along with other advanced ministry degrees and would have its own building and student housing on campus.


The university was granted an exception to ] in 2017.<ref name="CampusPride">{{cite web |url=https://www.campuspride.org/worstlist/ |title=Worst List: The Absolute Worst Campuses for LGBTQ Youth |author=<!--Not stated--> |website=Campus Pride |access-date=August 23, 2021 |quote=}}</ref> Homosexual acts are prohibited for students, including kissing and all acts "equated culturally with homosexual behavior."<ref>{{cite news |last=Drake |first=Erika |date=February 6, 2014 |title=SGA talks LGBTQ |url=https://www.thesojourniwu.com/sga-talks-lgbtq-2/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191130171456/http://www.thesojourniwu.com/sga-talks-lgbtq-2/ |url-status=usurped |archive-date=November 30, 2019 |work=The Sojurn |access-date=August 23, 2021}}</ref>
==Honors==
In 2007, the University was named "One of the Top Masters Universities in the Midwest" by '']'', ranked 62nd among 138 schools. In the 2008 edition, IWU jumped up to 31st in the rankings and in the 2009 edition, the University moved up to 28th.<ref>http://www.indwes.edu/news/2008/IWU-Moves-up-in-US-News-Rankings.htm</ref>


In 2022 Wright resigned and Dr. Jonathan Kulaga was named the university's tenth president.<ref name="Dr. Jonathan Kulaga Named Indiana W"/>
The New Media Consortium recently recognized IWU as a world leader in its innovative approaches to the use of technology. IWU is the first member institution of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities to be selected. President and CEO of the New Media Consortium, Dr. Larry Johnson, identifies IWU as "a place where smart, creative people are devising innovative solutions to challenges we all face in teaching and learning. The dedication to excellence here is palpable, and students and faculty are the clear beneficiaries."<ref name=autogenerated1 />


IWU is the largest private university in Indiana. Among the 105 members of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (the main organization of evangelical colleges in the U.S. and Canada), IWU is its largest member with nearly 10,000 students enrolled as of 2022.
The University was one of 12 independent colleges chosen nationally to receive the Foundation of Excellence Award from the Policy Center on the First Year of College. As a result, the university is helping to develop programs and best practices that many institutions across the country will view as the gold standard for outstanding first-year programming.<ref name=autogenerated1 />


==Academics==
The Best Christian Workplaces Institute, a research-based organizational and human resources consulting firm, recently named the University one of the three Best Christian Workplaces in America. The Institute has surveyed 400-plus Christian organizations, with more than 40,000 employees, during the last four years.<ref name=autogenerated1 />
]


The university offers various liberal arts (including 87 undergraduate majors) and professional educational programs leading to the ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], and ] ], along with a doctoral program in Organizational Leadership.<ref>http://www.indwes.edu/news/ArchiveNews/2009/New-Master-of-Divinity-Degree.htm {{dead link|date=February 2017}}</ref>
The Center for Life Calling and Leadership has developed a national reputation for excellence grounded in groundbreaking research and innovative application.<ref name=autogenerated1 />


In 2000, the university organized its academic structure into three colleges; the College of Arts and Sciences (traditional four-year liberal arts education), the College of Graduate Studies (traditional semester-based graduate degrees), and the College of Adult and Professional Studies (non-traditional, accelerated programs for working adults). In 2009, the university realigned its academic structure into five Principal Academic Units: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Adult and Professional Studies, the Graduate School, the School of Nursing, and Wesley Seminary.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indwes.edu/About/ |title=Evangelical Christian University Committed to Liberal Arts and Professional Education &#124; Indiana Wesleyan University |publisher=Indwes.edu |access-date=2012-11-30}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indwes.edu/About/Academic-Structure/ |title=Academic Structure &#124; About &#124; Indiana Wesleyan University |publisher=Indwes.edu |access-date=2012-11-30}}</ref>
Two faculty members have recently received ] research grants.<ref name=autogenerated1 />


In December 2022, ] and IWU partnered to create degree pathways for pilots who complete their FAA certificates through ATP. Students enrolled at the university, who are ATP alumni, can count their flight training experience as degree credit as well as receiving a tuition discount on certain programs.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mills |first=Wes |title=IWU offering new path for pilots to earn degrees |url=https://www.insideindianabusiness.com/articles/iwu-offering-new-path-for-pilots-to-earn-degrees |access-date=2023-09-29 |website=Inside INdiana Business |language=en-US}}</ref>
The University has also been named one of the "Top Ten Conservative Colleges" in the U.S. by the ] four years in a row.<ref></ref>


==Enrollment== ===Rankings===
In 2013, the university was ranked 17th out of more than 150 universities in the Midwest by ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://colleges.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/best-colleges/rankings/regional-universities-midwest |title=Regional University Midwest Rankings &#124; Top Regional Universities Midwest &#124; US News Best Colleges |access-date=2015-11-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151029062714/http://colleges.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/best-colleges/rankings/regional-universities-midwest |archive-date=2015-10-29}}</ref> In 2022, Indiana Wesleyan University ranked 13th in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/indiana-wesleyan-university-1822 |title=Indiana Wesleyan University - Profile, Rankings, and Data |access-date=2023-06-14}}</ref>
Indiana Wesleyan's total ] has grown tremendously the past 20 years, from a student total of 2,000 in 1987 to nearly 15,000 in 2007. This rapid growth has made IWU the largest institution in the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, the largest private university in the state of Indiana, and the fastest-growing university in Indiana.


The university has the largest adult education program in the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU). In 2008, the CCCU selected IWU to establish the Research Center in Adult Learning, a joint project with the CCCU.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cccu.org/professional_development/center-for-research-in-adult-education |title=Center for Research in Adult Education |publisher=] |year=2013 |access-date=August 4, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130809001848/http://www.cccu.org/professional_development/center-for-research-in-adult-education |archive-date=August 9, 2013}}</ref>
The population of traditional students living in university-owned residence facilities has increased from 442 students in 1989 to nearly 2,500 in the fall of 2007.


==Enrollment==
Enrollment in the College of Adult and Professional Studies programs has increased more than 900 percent, from 1,250 students in 1989 to more than 11,500 students in the fall of 2007. With IWU’s continued expansion around the ], enrollment in the adult programs is projected to double during the next decade.
Indiana Wesleyan's total ] has grown from a student total of 2,000 in 1987 to nearly 14,000 in 2017. This growth has made IWU the largest institution in the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities and the largest private university in the state of Indiana.


The population of traditional students living in on-campus residence facilities increased from 442 students in 1989 to nearly 2,600 in the fall of 2008. There are nearly 3,200 students (undergraduate and graduate) enrolled at IWU's Marion campus as of 2017.
==Main Campus==
Indiana Wesleyan University is noted for its award-winning 300 acre main campus in Marion, Indiana. During the past two decades, nearly $250 million in new construction and renovation have transformed IWU into a debt-free, student-focused, state-of-the-art university. Since 1990, over 50 construction projects have been completed, including 20 residence halls and 16 academic/administrative buildings, along with 11 adult and professional studies structures around the Midwest. ]-based ] firm,, has designed the majority of the campus facilities. A national poll recently ranked IWU's campus #1 in the U.S. among Evangelical Christian universities. IWU has also been ranked #1 in the nation for ] atmosphere by ''Campus Life'' magazine.


Enrollment in IWU National & Global's programs has grown from 1,250 students in 1989 to more than 10,000 students as of 2017.<ref name="ReferenceB"/>
As the University continues to grow, new facilities are constantly being built. Chief among them is a new $22 million ]/] (where required chapel services will be held 3 days a week) currently under construction and scheduled for completion in January 2010. The ] ceremony was held on ], ] and a webcam of the construction can be viewed here: . With 3,800 seats, the new chapel will be one of the largest ] in the Midwest. It will even be larger than the famous ] in ], home of the ].


==Main campus==
<center><gallery>
Indiana Wesleyan University has a {{convert|350|acre|adj=on}}<ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite web|url=http://www.indwes.edu/About/Quick-Facts/ |title=Quick Facts About Christian College in Indiana IWU &#124; Indiana Wesleyan University |publisher=Indwes.edu |access-date=2012-11-30}}</ref> main campus in Marion, Indiana. Since 1990, nearly $250 million has been spent on new construction and renovation, and the campus is valued in excess of $360 million. In the past 30 years, over 50 construction projects have been completed, including more than 15 residence facilities and 16 academic/administrative buildings, along with 11 adult and professional studies structures around the Midwest.<ref name="ReferenceB"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indwes.edu/About/Distinctives/ |title=Distinctives &#124; About &#124; Indiana Wesleyan University |publisher=Indwes.edu |access-date=2012-11-30}}</ref>
Image:Iwupac.jpg|Phillippe Performing Arts Center (1996)
Image:Iwulibrary.jpg|Jackson Library (2003)
Image:Iwustudentcenter.jpg|Student Center (1994,2001,2006)
Image:Iwuglobetheatre.jpg|Globe Theatre, Student Center (2001)
Image:Iwustudentcentermall.jpg|Student Center Mall (2006)
Image:Studentcenterpiazza.jpg|Student Center Piazza (2006)
Image:Maxwellcenter.jpg|Maxwell Center (1998)
Image:Iwureccenter.jpg|Recreation and Wellness Center (1999)
Image:Iwusciencehall.jpg|Burns Hall of Science and Nursing (2000)
Image:Williamsprayerchapel.jpg|Williams Prayer Chapel (2001)
Image:johnwesleystatue.jpg|John Wesley Statue (2003)
Image:Wesleyadministrationbuilding.jpg|John Wesley Administration Building (1894,2003)
Image:Iwupresidentsmansion.jpg|President's Home (1998)
Image:Iwucmcenter.jpg|Noggle Christian Ministries Center (1984,2008)
Image:Iwuhodsonhall.jpg|Hodson Hall (1996)
Image:Iwuscripturehall.jpg|Scripture Hall (2001) and University Fountain (2003)
Image:Iwulodges.jpg|Upperclassman Lodges (2005)
Image:Newwomensdorm.jpg|North Hall (2007)
Image:Newacademicbuilding.jpg|Elder Hall (2007)
Image:Newcollegewesleyanchurch.jpg|New College Wesleyan Church (2007 - not affiliated with IWU)
</gallery></center>


Of special note are the university's student residence facilities, including 9 ] (all built since 1990) and several apartment structures. IWU was ranked #1 in the 2018 "Best College Dorms in Indiana" list and #16 on the United States list.<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://www.indwes.edu/news/2017/10/iwu-ranked-no.-1-best-dorms-in-indiana |title = IWU ranked No. 1 best dorms in Indiana}}</ref> Niche.com also ranked IWU’s dorms #1 in Indiana in 2022. The university is unique from most colleges in having air conditioning in every room and no community showers in any facility on campus.<ref>https://www.indwes.edu/about/life-at-iwu/</ref>
==Athletics==
]The University offers eight intercollegiate sports for both men and women. The ] compete in the ] and are the conference's winningest school. IWU is also a member of the ] Division I and ] Division II.<ref></ref>


The university built the $22 million Chapel Auditorium (where chapel services are held three days a week), which was dedicated in January 2010. With 3,800 seats, it is one of the largest ] in the Midwest. As one of the largest facilities of its kind in the nation, it was designed to attract major events to Marion, such as musical artists, speakers, and conventions. Visiting artists have included ], ], the ], ], and ].
Former athletic director, Dr. Mike Fratzke, was the MCC conference president and was voted the 2007 NAIA Athletics Director of the Year.<ref></ref>


In 2016 the university broke ground on a 2,500 seat, state of the art football stadium that cost approximately $9 million. Wildcat Stadium was completed prior to the 2018 football season.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.insideindianabusiness.com/story/32768386/construction-underway-on-new-iwu-football-stadium | title=Construction Underway on IWU Football Stadium }}</ref>
The University has earned a national reputation for athletic excellence and in recent years, has dominated the MCC. IWU has won the MCC Conference Commissioners Cup a record seven consecutive years, and placed among the Top 20 in the NAIA United States Sports Academy Directors' Cup Standings nine straight years. The University has also won 8 national championships in the last two years alone.


In 2024 the university broke ground on a new 80,000 square foot indoor arena that will be the future home of the basketball and volleyball teams. At a cost of $30 million the “I Am Third Arena” is the most expensive building project in university history and will replace Luckey Arena which was built in 1980.<ref>https://iwuwildcats.com/news/2024/10/16/general-indiana-wesleyan-announces-i-am-third-arena-groundbreaking-ceremony-on-october-18.aspx</ref>
===2006-2007===
]The 2006-2007 school year was a record year for IWU sports, winning conference championships in 10 of the 14 MCC sports, which is a conference record. Both the men's and women's ] and ] teams captured MCC championships, the first school to do so. In addition, the men's ] team captured its second straight NCCAA National Championship and the women's ] team won the NCCAA National Championship as well (the program's third overall). The men's basketball team qualified for the NAIA national tournament and advanced to the ''Elite Eight'' for the first time in program history. However, the story of the year was the record-breaking women's basketball team, who captured the first NAIA National Championship in school history by defeating ] in the final. The Wildcats posted a perfect 38-0 record, becoming the first basketball team in NAIA history to go undefeated.<ref></ref>


<gallery class="center" mode="packed-hover">
===2007-2008===
File:Iwupac.jpg|Phillippe Performing Arts Center (1996)
]
File:Iwuhodsonhall.jpg|Hodson Hall (1996)
The 2007-2008 school year started well for the Wildcats, including MCC championships in men's (2nd in a row) and women's soccer (10th in a row), women's tennis (17th in a row), men's (3rd in a row) and women's ], women's ] (2nd in a row), and men's golf. Both the men's and women's soccer teams and the women's volleyball team (6th in a row) secured MCC Tournament championships as well. The men's soccer team posted a 14-3-1 regular season record, the best in program history, reached #6 in the NAIA national rankings (also a record mark), and won the NCCAA Midwest Regional Championship, as well as being ranked #1 in the NCCAA national poll for most of the season. The women's soccer team also won the NCCAA National Championship (the program's fourth overall) and finished with a season record of 21-2-1, the best in school history.<ref></ref> IWU was well on its way to securing its seventh straight MCC Commissioners Cup.<ref></ref>]
File:Iwupresidentshome.JPG|President's Home (1998)
File:IWUmaxwellcenter.jpg|] Center for Business and Leadership (1998)
File:Iwurecreationcenter.JPG|Recreation and Wellness Center (1999)
File:Iwuburnshall.JPG|Burns Hall (2000)
File:Iwuglobetheatre.jpg|Globe Theatre, Student Center (2001)
File:Williamsprayerchapel.jpg|Williams Prayer Chapel (2001)
File:Johnwesleystatue.jpg|] Statue (2003)
File:Iwulibrary.JPG|Jackson Library (2003)
File:IWUwesleyadministrationbuilding.jpg|John Wesley Administration Building (1894, 2003)
File:Iwuscripturehall.jpg|Scripture Hall (2001) and Old University Fountain (2003)
File:Iwulodges.JPG|Upperclassman Lodges (2005)
File:Iwustudentcenter.JPG|Student Center (1994, 2001, 2006)
File:Iwustudentcentermall.jpg|Student Center Mall (2006)
File:Iwustudentcenterpiazza.JPG|Student Center Piazza (2006)
File:IWUnorthhall.jpg|Beckett Hall (2007)
File:Iwuelderhall.JPG|Elder Hall (2007)
File:Iwuchristianministriescenter.JPG|Noggle Christian Ministries Center (1986, 2008)
File:Iwuchapel.JPG|University Chapel (2010)
File:Iwu seminary 1.jpg|Wesley Seminary (2013)
File:OTT-Hall.jpg|Ott Hall of Science and Nursing (2014)
File:IWU-plaza01.jpg|Eastburn Plaza and New University Fountain (2016)
</gallery>


== Education centers ==
In December, the women's basketball team broke a 24 year old NAIA record by winning their 48th consecutive game. Despite losing 4 starters from the previous season, they started 2007-2008 18-0, extending their record mark by winning a staggering 56 consecutive games. The historic streak was snapped, however, on ], ] in a loss to MCC rival ].<ref name=autogenerated3></ref> Despite being picked to finish fourth in the preseason MCC coaches poll, the Wildcats exceeded expectations and finished the season in second place in the MCC, behind Bethel College. In the MCC Tournament championship, the Wildcats lost again to Bethel for the third time in the season. However, IWU received an at-large bid to the NAIA National Tournament, where, though favored, they lost in the first round against ]. The women ended their season with a 28-6 overall record, 3 of the losses coming against Bethel.<ref name=autogenerated3 />
IWU National & Global is represented in regional education centers throughout the Midwest in Indiana, ], and ]. Site-based classes are held at 14 education centers: ] North and West, ], ], ], ], and Marion, Indiana; ], ], ] and ]; ], ], and ].


==Society of World Changers==
]
IWU created the Society of World Changers in 2003 to recognize nationally renowned figures who have exemplified the concept of world changers (those who impact their secular sphere of influence for Christianity) and whose lives can serve as an inspiration to future generations. Each year a World Changers Convocation is held on IWU's Marion campus to induct a new member into the Society and celebrate his or her accomplishments. A life-size bronze bust of each inductee is placed on permanent display in the Society of World Changers Hall of Honor located in the rotunda of the Jackson Library.<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://www.indwes.edu/about/world-changers/ |title = Indiana Wesleyan University World Changers - Christian College Role Models}}</ref>
While the women's season started brightly and faded at the end, the men's was the exact opposite. Following a record season in which they were MCC champions and qualified for the ''Elite Eight'' for the first time at the NAIA National Tournament, the men were picked to finish first again in the preseason MCC coaches poll. However, they finished a disappointing fourth with a poor 9-7 conference record. More misery ensued with a shocking loss at home to arch-rival ] in the MCC Tournament first round, which ensured that there would be no return trip to the NAIA's. Despite another bad loss at home to MCC rival ] in the NCCAA Regional Final, the Wildcats still qualified for the NCCAA National Tournament in ], as the #1 seed. On ], ], IWU avenged their earlier loss to Spring Arbor by defeating them 74-61 in the National Championship. The Wildcats finished the season with an overall record of 23-11. The NCCAA national title was the program's first since IWU won it at home in 1995, and the second in program history.<ref></ref>


==Music==
The men's basketball national championship was IWU's third of a record-setting five NCCAA national titles during the 2007-2008 school year. The women's soccer team won their championship in November, the men's indoor track and field team won in February, the men's outdoor track and field team won in May at IWU, and the women's tennis team also won in May at IWU. In addition, the men's baseball team nearly added a sixth national title, but lost in the NCCAA national championship.<ref></ref> In March, IWU clinched their record seventh straight MCC Commissioners Cup, with an 18 point lead over nearest rival, Bethel College.<ref></ref>Indiana Wesleyan was also awarded the President's Cup of the NCCAA as the best overall athletic program. IWU cruised to the cup with 119 points with a massive lead over runner-up ], which had 77.75 points. It is clear that IWU is the dominant school in the entire NCCAA.<ref></ref>
The university's music department is most noted for its premier choir, the University Chorale. Throughout the year, the eighty voice ensemble regularly travels to many states, singing in churches across the country and performing before thousands of people each year. Most notably, the Chorale has performed several times at the internationally recognized ] in ] and ] in ]. The group has also toured throughout Europe on several occasions, singing in venues such as ], Edinburgh, Scotland; ], England; ], York, England; ], England; ], London, England; ], Paris, France; and ], ]. The choir is made up of students in a variety of majors. Auditions are held at the beginning of each school year as hundreds of students audition for the open spots.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www2.indwes.edu/church_relations/ministry_teams/university-chorale.html |title=Office of Church Relations at Indiana Wesleyan University |access-date=2010-06-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100529224051/http://www2.indwes.edu/church_relations/ministry_teams/university-chorale.html |archive-date=2010-05-29}}</ref> Other ensembles at IWU include University Singers, University Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, One Voice, His Instrument, Redeemed, and Master's Praise. These groups perform on campus and regionally on a regular basis. Throughout the school year, students also perform a wide variety of solo and joint recitals. The Phillippe Performing Arts Center is home to the IWU Music Department.


===Championships=== ==Athletics==
{{Main|Indiana Wesleyan Wildcats}}
The men's sports began MCC play in 1968 and the women's sports began MCC play in 1986. The University holds the record for MCC conference championships with 113 titles.


The Indiana Wesleyan (IWU) athletic teams are called the Wildcats. The university is a member of the ] (NAIA), primarily competing in the ] (formerly known as the Mid-Central College Conference (MCCC) until after the 2011–12 school year) since the 1973–74 academic year; while its football team competes in the Mideast League of the ] (MSFA) and its women's swimming team competes in the ] (MSC). They were also a member of the ] (NCCAA), primarily competing as an independent in the Midwest Region of the Division I level.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indwes.edu/athletics/philosophy.asp |title=IWU Athletic Department |access-date=2007-07-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070928015820/http://www.indwes.edu/athletics/philosophy.asp |archive-date=2007-09-28}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.indwes.edu/athletics/philosophy.asp |title=IWU Wildcats - Indiana Wesleyan University Athletics |website=www.indwes.edu |access-date=13 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20031204161302/http://www.indwes.edu/athletics/philosophy.asp |archive-date=4 December 2003 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
<center>'''Mid-Central College Conference Championships'''</center>
{| class="wikitable" style="margin: 1em auto 1em auto"
! Sport !! Total !! Years won
|-
| Baseball || 4 || 1975, 1980, 1983, 1985
|-
| Men's Basketball || 1 || 2007
|-
| Women's Basketball || 6 || 1994, 2002-2005, 2007
|-
| Men's Cross Country || 17 || 1973, 1981-1986, 1989-1993, 2000, 2001, 2005-2007
|-
| Women's Cross Country || 9 || 1998-2005, 2007
|-
| Golf || 11 || 1977, 1981-1985, 1987, 1994, 1995, 1997, 2007
|-
| Men's Soccer || 5 || 1993, 1994, 1998, 2006, 2007
|-
| Women's Soccer || 11 || 1996, 1998-2007
|-
| Softball || 4 || 1989, 1992, 2005, 2006
|-
| Men's Tennis || 13 || 1979, 1980, 1982, 1984-1987, 1989, 1990, 2002-2004, 2006
|-
| Women's Tennis || 17 || 1992-2008
|-
| Men's Track and Field || 4 || 1982, 1983, 1994, 2007, 2008
|-
| Women's Track and Field || 6 || 1999, 2002-2005, 2007
|-
| Volleyball || 4 || 1999, 2002, 2006, 2007
|}


IWU competes in 23 intercollegiate varsity sports: Men's sports include baseball, basketball, bowling, cross country, football, golf, soccer, swimming, tennis and track and field (indoor and outdoor). Women's sports include basketball, bowling, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track and field (indoor and outdoor) and volleyball; and co-ed sports include competitive cheer.
The University has 23 national championship titles, including 1 NAIA national championship from the record-setting 2006-2007 women's basketball team that went 38-0. The other 22 titles are NCCAA national championships.<ref></ref>


===Accomplishments===
<center>'''NCCAA National Championships'''</center>
Indiana Wesleyan is the winningest school in Crossroads League history. IWU won the league Commissioners Cup a record twelve consecutive years, and placed among the Top 20 in the NAIA United States Sports Academy Directors' Cup Standings 13 straight years. The Women's Tennis Team has won the Crossroads League Conference Championship 31 years in a row. They have won more matches than any other tennis team in any division since 2014. The Men's Tennis Team won a record 41 matches in the 2021–22 season. No other tennis team at any level has won more than 39 matches in a given season. The university was awarded the 2008 NCCAA President's Cup as the best overall athletic program in the nation, and shared the award with ] in 2009, the fourth time IWU won the award.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thenccaa.org/prescupcurrent_year.html |title=Welcome to the NCCAA: National Christian College Athletic Association |access-date=2009-08-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090813133955/http://www.thenccaa.org/prescupcurrent_year.html |archive-date=2009-08-13}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable" style="margin: 1em auto 1em auto"
! Year !! Sports
|-
|1985 || Women's Volleyball
|-
|1994 || Men's Track and Field
|-
|1995 || Men's Basketball
|-
|1997 || Women's Soccer
|-
|1999 || Women's Soccer
|-
|2000 || Women's: Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball
|-
|2002 || Women's Basketball
|-
|2003 || Women's: Cross Country, Tennis, Indoor Track and Field, Track and Field
|-
|2004 || Women's Indoor Track and Field
|-
|2005 || Men's Golf, Women's Tennis
|-
|2006 || Men's Golf
|-
|2007 || Women's: Soccer, Tennis
|-
|2008 || Men's: Basketball, Indoor Track and Field, Outdoor Track and Field, Women's Tennis
|-
|}


===Championships===
Men's sports began Crossroads League play in 1968 and women's sports began league play in 1986. The university holds the record for Crossroads League championships with 180 titles as of 2021. The university has won 31 national championship titles, including 2 NAIA national championships from the record-setting 2006–2007 women's basketball team that went 38-0 and the 2012–2013 women's basketball team. IWU has won an additional 3 NAIA national championships in 2014, 2016 and 2018 in men's basketball.<ref name=IWUchamps>{{cite web|title=2018 NAIA Division II Men's Basketball National Championship, presented by Cypress Risk Management|url=http://www.naia.org/fls/27900/1NAIA/SportsInfo/Championships/2018DIIMBB/2018DIIMBBBracket.pdf?SPSID=646849&SPID=100399&DB_OEM_ID=27900|access-date=13 March 2018}}</ref> Katie Wilson and Lucia Solis won the 2015 ITA NAIA National Tennis Doubles Title. The other 26 titles are NCCAA national championships.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.iwuwildcats.com/f/Quick_Facts.php |title=Indiana Wesleyan University Athletic Department - Quick Facts |website=Iwuwildcats.com |access-date=2018-03-13 |archive-date=2018-03-14 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180314174315/http://www.iwuwildcats.com/f/Quick_Facts.php |url-status=dead }}</ref>


==Notable alumni==
* ], member of Parliament in Ghana
* ], professional baseball player
* ], Indiana state senator
* ], U.S. representative
* ], bishop of the United Methodist Church
* ], lawyer, world's youngest judge
* ], author
* ], former opposition prime minister of Syria
* ] - professional basketball player
* ], mayor of ]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://gazette.com/election-coverage/colorado-springs-mayors-race-yemi-mobolade-looking-to-blaze-a-new-trail-as-an-agent/article_96da5cbe-ebbb-11ed-93aa-1f8a5c8da4a9.html|title=Colorado Springs mayor's race: Yemi Mobolade looking to blaze a new trail as 'an agent of good disruption'|first=Breeanna |last=Jent|date=May 10, 2023|work=Colorado Springs Gazette|accessdate=May 16, 2023}}</ref>
* ], singer and songwriter
* ], professional football player
* ], founder of ], director of Green Scholars Initiative, executive director at the ] in Washington, D.C.<ref>{{cite web |website=museumofthebible.org |url=https://www.museumofthebible.org/jerry-pattengale-phd |title=Press Releases |access-date=2019-09-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170419030931/https://www.museumofthebible.org/jerry-pattengale-phd |archive-date=2017-04-19 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
* ], Indiana state representative
* ] - professional basketball player


==External links== == See also ==
* {{Portal inline|Indiana}}
{{commonscat}}
*
*
*


==References== ==References==
{{reflist}} {{reflist}}


==External links==
{{Mid-Central College Conference}}
{{Commons category}}
* {{Official website|www.indwes.edu}}
*

{{Indiana Wesleyan University}}
{{CCCU}}
{{Indiana Colleges and Universities}}
{{Colleges and universities in metropolitan Indianapolis}} {{Colleges and universities in metropolitan Indianapolis}}
{{Colleges and universities in Louisville}} {{Colleges and universities in Louisville}}
{{NCCAA Division I Midwest navbox}}
{{Crossroads League navbox}}
{{Mid-States Football Association navbox}}
{{Authority control}}


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Latest revision as of 01:33, 22 December 2024

Christian university in Marion, Indiana, US
Indiana Wesleyan University
Former namesMarion College (1920–1988)
MottoCharacter. Scholarship. Leadership.
TypePrivate university
Established1920; 104 years ago (1920)
Religious affiliationWesleyan Church
Academic affiliationsCCCU
Endowment$201.4 million (2020)
PresidentJonathan Kulaga
Academic staff1,070
Administrative staff1,150
Students10,000
Undergraduates2,600 (Marion campus) / 6,800 (all other campuses)
Postgraduates535 (Wesley Seminary)
LocationMarion, Indiana, U.S. 40°31′08″N 85°39′54″W / 40.519°N 85.665°W / 40.519; -85.665
CampusSuburban
350 acres (140 ha)
NewspaperThe Sojourn
ColorsRed & Gray
   
NicknameWildcats
Sporting affiliations
MascotWesley the Wildcat
Websitewww.indwes.edu

Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) is a private evangelical Christian university headquartered in Marion, Indiana, and affiliated with the Wesleyan Church. It is the largest private university in Indiana.

The university system includes IWU—Marion, where nearly 3,000 students are enrolled in traditional programs on the main campus in Marion and IWU-National & Global which consists of 6,800 adult learners who study online or onsite at 15 education centers in Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio. In addition 535 graduate students are currently enrolled at Wesley Seminary.

IWU offers more than 80 undergraduate degrees and 57 graduate degrees including nine doctoral degrees. Its students represent more than 80 Christian denominations and come from 11 countries.

History

IWU's campus was known first as Marion Normal College (1890–1912) and then as Marion Normal Institute (1912–1918).

In 1918, the Marion Normal Institute relocated to Muncie, Indiana, and merged with the Indiana Normal Institute. After the union failed, the buildings and grounds were purchased for the state of Indiana and formed the basis for Ball State University. Because the Indiana Conference of the Wesleyan Methodist Church operated the Fairmount Bible School 10 miles (16 km) south of Marion, local citizens asked them to move to the vacant property and open a normal school in Marion. So from 1918 to 1919 the conference raised $100,000 to endow the school, moved the Fairmount Bible School to Marion, and added a new teacher education program to become Marion College. The actual year of incorporation was 1919; however, the first classes were not offered until the fall of 1920, which became the official year of inception.

From 1920 to 1988, Marion College operated as a developing liberal arts institution with growing programs, offering Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees since the first graduating class of 1921. A Master of Arts in Theology was begun in 1924 and offered continuously until 1950. Master's degree programs were initiated again in 1979 in Ministerial Education and Community Health Nursing. Master's degree programs were begun in Business in 1988, in Primary Care Nursing in 1994, and in Counseling in 1995.

Having already established a liberal arts college, in 1983, university leadership decided to begin offering courses and degrees to working adults during evening hours and Saturdays, forming what would eventually become IWU National & Global. This decision proved to be very successful and massively affected IWU's future, eventually eliminating the school's sizable debt and funding the revitalization and expansion of the Marion campus, transforming the college into a major evangelical Christian university. To this day, IWU National & Global provides the majority of the funding used in campus renovation and construction projects, keeping student tuition at a relatively low level compared with other similar colleges.

Enrollment in IWU National & Global has grown substantially since 1985 when the first courses were offered. IWU has grown by more than 200 percent since 1990 to educate nearly 14,000 students, over 10,000 of whom are taking courses online or at IWU National & Global's regional Education Centers in Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky. Site-based classes are held at 14 Education Centers: Indianapolis North and West, Fort Wayne, Kokomo, Greenwood, Merrillville, and Marion, Indiana; Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus and Dayton, Ohio; Louisville, Lexington, and Florence, Kentucky. Programs are also available at a number of learning sites located throughout Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio. Since 1997, most of these programs have been available online.

A new administration was initiated by the board of trustees with the presidency of Dr. James Barnes in 1987. The name of the institution was changed to Indiana Wesleyan University in 1988, reflecting the influence of the institution across the state - well beyond the boundaries of the city of Marion, its connection with the Wesleyan Church and Christian higher education, and the development of increasing numbers of graduate programs.

Barnes served as president from 1987 to 2006 and is credited with transforming IWU from a small, struggling Christian college into one of the largest and most successful evangelical Christian universities in the world. Barnes served as the university's first chancellor from 2006 to 2010. In 2006 Dr. Henry Smith succeeded Barnes as president. In 2010, the Student Center was renamed the Barnes Student Center, in his honor.

In 2008, the Board of Trustees approved a motion to begin the process of establishing Wesley Seminary at Indiana Wesleyan University, an evangelical seminary affiliated with both the university and the Wesleyan Church. In 2009, the seminary was approved and accredited and opened for the fall 2009 semester. It offers the Master of Divinity degree along with other graduate theological degrees and has its own building, a result of the university receiving a substantial donation from the Green family, owners of the Hobby Lobby corporation. Wesley is the first officially affiliated seminary in the history of the Wesleyan Church.

In 2012 Smith announced his resignation as president and reassignment as chancellor. He was succeeded as president by Dr. David Wright, who was inaugurated in 2013.

In 2013, the board of trustees voted to acquire Wesley Institute (now Excelsia College), in New South Wales, Australia, to create IWU's first international campus.

The university was granted an exception to Title IX in 2017. Homosexual acts are prohibited for students, including kissing and all acts "equated culturally with homosexual behavior."

In 2022 Wright resigned and Dr. Jonathan Kulaga was named the university's tenth president.

IWU is the largest private university in Indiana. Among the 105 members of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (the main organization of evangelical colleges in the U.S. and Canada), IWU is its largest member with nearly 10,000 students enrolled as of 2022.

Academics

The university offers various liberal arts (including 87 undergraduate majors) and professional educational programs leading to the Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Music, Master of Arts, Master of Science, Master of Business Administration, and Master of Divinity degrees, along with a doctoral program in Organizational Leadership.

In 2000, the university organized its academic structure into three colleges; the College of Arts and Sciences (traditional four-year liberal arts education), the College of Graduate Studies (traditional semester-based graduate degrees), and the College of Adult and Professional Studies (non-traditional, accelerated programs for working adults). In 2009, the university realigned its academic structure into five Principal Academic Units: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Adult and Professional Studies, the Graduate School, the School of Nursing, and Wesley Seminary.

In December 2022, ATP Flight School and IWU partnered to create degree pathways for pilots who complete their FAA certificates through ATP. Students enrolled at the university, who are ATP alumni, can count their flight training experience as degree credit as well as receiving a tuition discount on certain programs.

Rankings

In 2013, the university was ranked 17th out of more than 150 universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report. In 2022, Indiana Wesleyan University ranked 13th in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report.

The university has the largest adult education program in the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU). In 2008, the CCCU selected IWU to establish the Research Center in Adult Learning, a joint project with the CCCU.

Enrollment

Indiana Wesleyan's total enrollment has grown from a student total of 2,000 in 1987 to nearly 14,000 in 2017. This growth has made IWU the largest institution in the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities and the largest private university in the state of Indiana.

The population of traditional students living in on-campus residence facilities increased from 442 students in 1989 to nearly 2,600 in the fall of 2008. There are nearly 3,200 students (undergraduate and graduate) enrolled at IWU's Marion campus as of 2017.

Enrollment in IWU National & Global's programs has grown from 1,250 students in 1989 to more than 10,000 students as of 2017.

Main campus

Indiana Wesleyan University has a 350-acre (140 ha) main campus in Marion, Indiana. Since 1990, nearly $250 million has been spent on new construction and renovation, and the campus is valued in excess of $360 million. In the past 30 years, over 50 construction projects have been completed, including more than 15 residence facilities and 16 academic/administrative buildings, along with 11 adult and professional studies structures around the Midwest.

Of special note are the university's student residence facilities, including 9 dormitories (all built since 1990) and several apartment structures. IWU was ranked #1 in the 2018 "Best College Dorms in Indiana" list and #16 on the United States list. Niche.com also ranked IWU’s dorms #1 in Indiana in 2022. The university is unique from most colleges in having air conditioning in every room and no community showers in any facility on campus.

The university built the $22 million Chapel Auditorium (where chapel services are held three days a week), which was dedicated in January 2010. With 3,800 seats, it is one of the largest theaters in the Midwest. As one of the largest facilities of its kind in the nation, it was designed to attract major events to Marion, such as musical artists, speakers, and conventions. Visiting artists have included Relient K, Switchfoot, the Gaither Vocal Band, Michael W. Smith, and Lauren Daigle.

In 2016 the university broke ground on a 2,500 seat, state of the art football stadium that cost approximately $9 million. Wildcat Stadium was completed prior to the 2018 football season.

In 2024 the university broke ground on a new 80,000 square foot indoor arena that will be the future home of the basketball and volleyball teams. At a cost of $30 million the “I Am Third Arena” is the most expensive building project in university history and will replace Luckey Arena which was built in 1980.

  • Phillippe Performing Arts Center (1996) Phillippe Performing Arts Center (1996)
  • Hodson Hall (1996) Hodson Hall (1996)
  • President's Home (1998) President's Home (1998)
  • Maxwell Center for Business and Leadership (1998) Maxwell Center for Business and Leadership (1998)
  • Recreation and Wellness Center (1999) Recreation and Wellness Center (1999)
  • Burns Hall (2000) Burns Hall (2000)
  • Globe Theatre, Student Center (2001) Globe Theatre, Student Center (2001)
  • Williams Prayer Chapel (2001) Williams Prayer Chapel (2001)
  • John Wesley Statue (2003) John Wesley Statue (2003)
  • Jackson Library (2003) Jackson Library (2003)
  • John Wesley Administration Building (1894, 2003) John Wesley Administration Building (1894, 2003)
  • Scripture Hall (2001) and Old University Fountain (2003) Scripture Hall (2001) and Old University Fountain (2003)
  • Upperclassman Lodges (2005) Upperclassman Lodges (2005)
  • Student Center (1994, 2001, 2006) Student Center (1994, 2001, 2006)
  • Student Center Mall (2006) Student Center Mall (2006)
  • Student Center Piazza (2006) Student Center Piazza (2006)
  • Beckett Hall (2007) Beckett Hall (2007)
  • Elder Hall (2007) Elder Hall (2007)
  • Noggle Christian Ministries Center (1986, 2008) Noggle Christian Ministries Center (1986, 2008)
  • University Chapel (2010) University Chapel (2010)
  • Wesley Seminary (2013) Wesley Seminary (2013)
  • Ott Hall of Science and Nursing (2014) Ott Hall of Science and Nursing (2014)
  • Eastburn Plaza and New University Fountain (2016) Eastburn Plaza and New University Fountain (2016)

Education centers

IWU National & Global is represented in regional education centers throughout the Midwest in Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky. Site-based classes are held at 14 education centers: Indianapolis North and West, Fort Wayne, Kokomo, Greenwood, Merrillville, and Marion, Indiana; Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus and Dayton, Ohio; Louisville, Lexington, and Florence, Kentucky.

Society of World Changers

IWU created the Society of World Changers in 2003 to recognize nationally renowned figures who have exemplified the concept of world changers (those who impact their secular sphere of influence for Christianity) and whose lives can serve as an inspiration to future generations. Each year a World Changers Convocation is held on IWU's Marion campus to induct a new member into the Society and celebrate his or her accomplishments. A life-size bronze bust of each inductee is placed on permanent display in the Society of World Changers Hall of Honor located in the rotunda of the Jackson Library.

Music

The university's music department is most noted for its premier choir, the University Chorale. Throughout the year, the eighty voice ensemble regularly travels to many states, singing in churches across the country and performing before thousands of people each year. Most notably, the Chorale has performed several times at the internationally recognized Crystal Cathedral in Orange County, California and Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The group has also toured throughout Europe on several occasions, singing in venues such as St. Giles' Cathedral, Edinburgh, Scotland; St Michael and All Angels' Church, Haworth, England; York Minster, York, England; Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford, England; St Paul's Cathedral, London, England; Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, Paris, France; and St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City. The choir is made up of students in a variety of majors. Auditions are held at the beginning of each school year as hundreds of students audition for the open spots. Other ensembles at IWU include University Singers, University Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, One Voice, His Instrument, Redeemed, and Master's Praise. These groups perform on campus and regionally on a regular basis. Throughout the school year, students also perform a wide variety of solo and joint recitals. The Phillippe Performing Arts Center is home to the IWU Music Department.

Athletics

Main article: Indiana Wesleyan Wildcats

The Indiana Wesleyan (IWU) athletic teams are called the Wildcats. The university is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), primarily competing in the Crossroads League (formerly known as the Mid-Central College Conference (MCCC) until after the 2011–12 school year) since the 1973–74 academic year; while its football team competes in the Mideast League of the Mid-States Football Association (MSFA) and its women's swimming team competes in the Mid-South Conference (MSC). They were also a member of the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA), primarily competing as an independent in the Midwest Region of the Division I level.

IWU competes in 23 intercollegiate varsity sports: Men's sports include baseball, basketball, bowling, cross country, football, golf, soccer, swimming, tennis and track and field (indoor and outdoor). Women's sports include basketball, bowling, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track and field (indoor and outdoor) and volleyball; and co-ed sports include competitive cheer.

Accomplishments

Indiana Wesleyan is the winningest school in Crossroads League history. IWU won the league Commissioners Cup a record twelve consecutive years, and placed among the Top 20 in the NAIA United States Sports Academy Directors' Cup Standings 13 straight years. The Women's Tennis Team has won the Crossroads League Conference Championship 31 years in a row. They have won more matches than any other tennis team in any division since 2014. The Men's Tennis Team won a record 41 matches in the 2021–22 season. No other tennis team at any level has won more than 39 matches in a given season. The university was awarded the 2008 NCCAA President's Cup as the best overall athletic program in the nation, and shared the award with Cedarville University in 2009, the fourth time IWU won the award.

Championships

Men's sports began Crossroads League play in 1968 and women's sports began league play in 1986. The university holds the record for Crossroads League championships with 180 titles as of 2021. The university has won 31 national championship titles, including 2 NAIA national championships from the record-setting 2006–2007 women's basketball team that went 38-0 and the 2012–2013 women's basketball team. IWU has won an additional 3 NAIA national championships in 2014, 2016 and 2018 in men's basketball. Katie Wilson and Lucia Solis won the 2015 ITA NAIA National Tennis Doubles Title. The other 26 titles are NCCAA national championships.

Notable alumni

See also

References

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