History and Heritage
Our history
More than a century ago, early Quaker pioneers helped settle the rich and fruitful Chehalem Valley of Oregon. One of their first priorities, along with the founding of their church, was the education of their children. Among those first academy students was Herbert “Bertie” Hoover, future U.S. President.In 1885, such Christian instruction was assured with the establishment of Friends Pacific Academy. At the same time, the founding pioneers were looking ahead with the dream of a college to provide further and more advanced education. That time came Sept. 9, 1891, with the opening of the doors of Pacific College. Fifteen students were enrolled the first day of classes.
Since then, the institution has seen major changes, including a name change. In 1949, because of the many "Pacific" colleges, the school was renamed in honor of the founder of the Friends (Quaker) movement.
The college weathered several financial difficulties and gained accreditation before enrollment broke 200 in 1962. Over the next 25 years, the college would add facilities and increase the academic rigor of its programs. During the 1980s, George Fox began expanding its offerings, triggering a growth spurt that continues more than 20 years later.
The name changed again in 1996 when Western Evangelical Seminary merged with George Fox College to create George Fox University. During the past 14 years, George Fox University has experienced rapid growth, quadrupling in size. Enrollment surpassed 3,300 students in 2008.
Programs have expanded beyond traditional undergraduate offerings to include graduate, seminary, and degree-completion programs for working adults. In addition to a residential campus in Newberg, Ore., classes are now taught in Portland, Salem and Redmond, Ore., as well as in Boise, Idaho.