Gleaning its name in 2009, Washington Adventist University has a rich history. The university started as Washington Training College in 1904. It aimed to educate young men and women in liberal arts.
In 1907, its focus shifted. The institution became Washington Foreign Mission Seminary. Its goal was special training for missionaries. By 1914, it returned to its liberal arts roots. It was then renamed Washington Missionary College. The first commencement was held in 1915. Five students received bachelor of arts degrees.
Continued growth brought more changes to Washington Adventist University. In 1933, the lower division became Columbia Junior College. It gained accreditation. By 1942, Washington Missionary College received accreditation. It became a four-year, degree-granting institution. The Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools recognized it.
In 1961, the college changed its name to Columbia Union College. Then in 2009, it achieved university status. It adopted its current name Washington Adventist University.
Washington Adventist University almost sold its radio station WGTS 91.9FM in 2007. A $25 million bid from American Public Media Group was on the table. Listeners and supporters campaigned against the sale. The board of trustees ultimately voted against it. The sale would have paid debts. It would have increased the endowment. It also would have funded a new building.
In 2008, President Weymouth Spence announced restructuring plans. These plans included faculty and staff position cuts or freezes. The aim was to relieve the university’s debt. The focus would shift to health sciences. This caused uncertainty among students and faculty.
Washington Adventist University holds several accreditations. These include the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The Adventist Accrediting Association also accredits it. The Maryland Higher Education Commission approves it too.
Professional accreditations include nursing and health programs. The Maryland State Department of Education also accredits it.
The university offers associate and bachelor’s degrees. Certificate programs are also available. Graduate programs include MBA and Masters of Nursing. Public Administration, Religion, and Psychology degrees are also offered. Adult evening courses provide accelerated bachelor’s degrees.
Washington Adventist University boasts a diverse student body. Students come from 40 states and 47 countries. There are 16 student clubs and organizations. Six are honor societies. The music department is highly regarded. The New England Youth Ensemble is a resident orchestra. It is one of North America’s most traveled orchestras.
Other musical groups include the Columbia Collegiate Chorale. ProMusic is an elite vocal ensemble. The Washington Concert Winds hosts a yearly band festival. A new work is premiered each spring. The Lois and Leroy Peters Music Center houses the music department.
The Acro-Airs sports acrobatics team performs across the country. They promote healthy living. They perform at NBA games.
Washington Adventist University’s athletic teams are called the Shock. They compete in the NAIA and USCAA.
Study abroad opportunities are available. Students can study in Argentina, Austria, Brazil, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, and Spain.
Several notable individuals have graduated from Washington Adventist University. These include pediatric heart surgeon Leonard Lee Bailey and fashion designer Rachel Roy. The legacy of Washington Adventist University continues to grow. Its commitment to service and education shapes future leaders.