Can you imagine this Point Loma Nazarene University began with just $4,000 in pledges? It is now a thriving institution. Let’s delve into the history of this unique place. Point Loma Nazarene University stands as a private Christian liberal arts college. Its main campus graces Point Loma in San Diego. The Church of the Nazarene founded it in 1902 as a Bible college.
Initially, the college was the vision of several women in the Church of the Nazarene. They sought to train leaders for their denomination. Historian Timothy L. Smith notes that these women convinced a reluctant Phineas F. Bresee to support their idea. Bresee envisioned more than a simple Bible college. He desired a real Christian school.
Pacific Bible College opened in 1902. Mary Hill served as its first principal. In 1906, a large donation from Mr. and Mrs. Jackson Deets piqued Bresee’s interest. He saw the potential for a liberal arts college. Together, Bresee and Deets planned Nazarene University. It was to include an academy, a liberal arts college and a bible school.
In 1910, the institution was renamed Nazarene University. Against some advice, it moved to Pasadena. A theological dispute led to another renaming in 1917. It became Pasadena University. The name changed again in 1924 to Pasadena College. The school gained accreditation in 1949.
In 1973, Pasadena College moved to Point Loma in San Diego. This location was the former California Western University campus. The college existed as Point Loma College for a decade. In 1983, it became Point Loma Nazarene College. Finally, in 1998, it achieved university status and became Point Loma Nazarene University.
Before Point Loma Nazarene University, the Point Loma site had a unique past. It was once home to a Theosophical commune called Lomaland. Katherine Tingley ran the commune. By 1900, impressive buildings like the Academy Building and the Temple of Peace dominated the campus. These structures featured amethyst domes. They lit up at night and could be seen offshore.
Lomaland also boasted the first Greek theater in North America. It was built in 1901. The theater hosted sporting events and theatrical performances. Cabrillo Hall served as the International Center Headquarters.
After Lomaland dissolved, the site saw various uses. It was used for bootlegging during Prohibition. Later, it became a military observation point during World War II.
Point Loma Nazarene University is one of eight U.S. liberal arts colleges affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene. It offers many ministry opportunities. Students can participate in chapel, community outreach, and international missions.
The university is committed to educating students holistically. It offers over 60 areas of study. Point Loma Nazarene University athletic teams are called the Sea Lions. They compete in the NCAA Division II. The school colors are green and gold.
Point Loma Nazarene University has come a long way from its humble beginnings. It continues to uphold its commitment to faith, learning and service. A Bible belonging to Phineas Bresee remains on campus. It is opened to Isaiah 62, a guiding chapter for the school. It serves as a reminder of the university’s enduring values.