During the first college year, the University Life began, published monthly by the Literary Societies. Volume 1, Number 1, appeared in March, 1899, a 9 x 12 inch magazine type publication with a gray cover which had lettering and decorative design in red ink, the school colors chosen by students…Read More
New Student Christian Movement
The YMCA and YWCA has had immeasurable influence on the university and its students for 43 years. Now, members voted to combine forces under a new organization called the Student Christian Movement.
First Athletic Report
Most of the first publication on athletics argued for a better athletic program at Friends. They provided some pretty convincing arguments for strongly encouraging exercise within the student body. “It is a pity that any bright, intelligent student must need to succumb to so called overstudy. A foolish pity! but..Read More
Welcome Home, Boys!
With the return of servicemen, enrollment swelled to 410 with 222 men and 188 women. The enrollment total boosted further in the second semester at 526. The Singing Quakers was once again a mixed ensemble! The campus was rejuvenated.
Early Campus Layout
While the Davis Administration building was the center of campus, by 1900 there were two residence halls: North Hall and South Hall. North Hall was a men’s residence hall containing a parlor and 40 rooms for students. South Hall, a women’s residence located one block south of Davis Administration Building,..Read More
Students Adopt Hungarian City
Through the American Hungarian Relief, inc. the university adopted a war-torn village in Hungary with the aim of aiding in its rehabilitation. Sarkeresztes, Hungary was a pre-war population of 1000 inhabitants. After the way, the population was half that size. Friends students hosted numerous fundraising events and were able to..Read More
First Graduating Class
Friends University graduated its first class during Commencement Week, June 2-6. Receiving their degrees were five people, Melissa Stanley Fellow, John Howard, Cecil Howes, Herman Newman, and Lee Redding.
The Growth of an Idea
Juliet Reeve’s history book, Friends University – The Growth of an Idea is printed. A recollection of 50 years of history, English professor Reeve was assisted by 14 students who helped with research.
Early Tuition
Tuition was $36.00, paid in advance, with room and board costing $2.75-$3.25 per week.
Golden Anniversary Chapel
The golden anniversary events continued into 1948 with a special 50th Anniversary Chapel on September 22 that honored eight Wichitans who were members of the 1898 student body: Mr. And Mrs. James Cox, Grace Reed, Birtha E. Wentworth, Mabel Woodard, Omie W. Davis and Herbert Smith.