University of La Verne

Nestled along the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains in Southern California, the University of La Verne is an independent university providing rich educational opportunities for both the academic and personal development of its students in a friendly, engaged setting. La Verne’s enrollment of nearly 8,000 students closely reflects Southern California’s diverse population. The University fosters learning and nurtures character by stressing the importance of a values-based education; provides students a better appreciation of the responsibilities and rewards of serving the human and ecological community; and promotes a continuing respect for differing cultural and philosophical perspectives. Students of color make up more than 53 percent of the University’s total enrollment, with the U.S. Department of Education having designated La Verne a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). Many members of its traditional undergraduate population are first generation students. Founded in 1891 as Lordsburg College by members of the Church of the Brethren, both the college and the agricultural community around it were renamed La Verne in 1917. Recognized as an outstanding provider of teacher education, over the years the college campus, curriculum and student body grew to meet the expanding higher educational needs of the region. While in time the Board of Trustees became independent of church control, the college never lost its commitment to service or its dedication to sound, people-centered, values-oriented education. It began offering off-campus degree programs in 1969 and the following year opened its College of Law. In 1971, La Verne started its campus accelerated degree program for adults, now known as CAPA. To best reflect these profound changes in size and scope, the institution reorganized in 1977 as the University of La Verne. Today, the University features four academic divisions – College of Arts & Sciences, College of Business & Public Management, College of Education & Organizational Leadership, and College of Law. The institution continues to expand, serving the needs of students via regional campus locations in Bakersfield, Burbank, Irvine, Ontario, Oxnard, San Luis Obispo and Victorville, and through on-site military centers at Point Mugu Naval Air Station and Vandenberg Air Force Base. It also has off-campus graduate degree and credential programs offered at learning centers and partnering businesses throughout the state as well as a nationally recognized online program. Across all campuses, colleges, programs and activities, La Verne’s mission statement remains at the heart of everything that happens at the University. University Mission Statement The University of La Verne offers a distinctive and relevant educational experience to a diverse population of traditional-age, adult, and graduate learners preparing them for successful careers and a commitment to life-long learning across the liberal arts and professional programs. Core Values of the University of La Verne Ethical Reasoning: The University affirms a value system that actively supports peace with justice, respect of individuals and humanity and the health of the planet and its people. Students are reflective about personal, professional, and societal values that support professional and social responsibility. Diversity and Inclusivity: The University supports a diverse and inclusive environment where students recognize and benefit from the life experiences and viewpoints of other students, faculty and staff. Lifelong Learning: The University promotes intellectual curiosity and the importance of lifelong learning. It teaches students how to learn, to think critically, to be capable of original research, and to access and integrate information to prepare them for continued personal and professional growth. Community and Civic Engagement: The University asserts a commitment to improving and enhancing local, regional and global communities.