Group shot of Wilberforce University students wearing caps and gowns lined up for a graduation ceremony

Wilberforce University

Founded in 1856, Wilberforce University can trace its origin to a period of history before the Civil War, when the Ohio Underground Railroad was established as a means of escape for all those blacks who sought their freedom in the North from the yoke of slavery, one of the destination points of this railroad became Wilberforce University.

The university is the nation’s oldest private, historically black university, named to honor the great 18th century abolitionist, William Wilberforce.


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Final Resource Day Session Helps Incoming Wilberforce Students Start Strong

Jayana Smith receives a $1,500 novelty size checkWilberforce University recently concluded its final New Student Resource Session marking another successful year of preparing incoming students for a smooth transition to college life. 

Designed to help new students get ahead before the start of the fall semester, the New Student Resource Session program provides participants with direct access to essential enrollment services, academic resources, and campus support systems. Through the program, students complete critical steps such as course registration, financial aid processing, and academic advising while also becoming familiar with the faculty and staff who will support their success throughout their Wilberforce journey. >>Read More


Wilberforce University Historic District Listed on National Register of Historic Places

Ohio Historical Marker on Wilberforce University’s campus. Photo from Wilberforce University.

Ohio Historical Marker on Wilberforce University’s campus. Photo from Wilberforce University.

Wilberforce University’s Historic District has officially been listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the nation’s list of historic properties worthy of preservation, according to a university press release.

Wilberforce University, founded in 1856, was the nation’s first private historically Black college and university (HBCU) and the first college entirely owned and operated by African Americans. For 170 years, the University has educated generations of leaders who have made lasting contributions to education, ministry, public service, business, science, the military and the arts. >>Read More


Finishing the Race: Ohio Native Ronald Rucker Establishes $25,000 Endowment to Honor His Parents and Support Determined Wilberforce Students

headshot of Ronald RuckerWhen Ronald Rucker reflects on his journey from a self-described “average student” at the University of Akron to a successful professional and committed philanthropist; one word comes to mind, gratitude. 

That gratitude has now taken shape through a transformative gift to Wilberforce University: the Prentis H. Sr. and Jereldean Allen Rucker Memorial Scholarship Endowment, a $25,000 investment designed to uplift students who, like Rucker once did, are determined to succeed; even when the path is not easy. >> Read More

 


Wilberforce University expands graduate portfolio with new online Master of Science in Project Management

Master of Science in Project Managment graphicThe new degree becomes Wilberforce University’s second master’s degree program, joining its longstanding Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling, which has been preparing highly qualified rehabilitation counseling professionals since 2004. The addition of the online Project Management program reflects the University’s strategic commitment to offering graduate programs that address workforce needs while expanding educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals.

“This approval represents another significant milestone in the continued evolution of Wilberforce University,” said Dr. Vann R. Newkirk, President of Wilberforce University. “Building upon the success of our Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling program, the addition of the Master of Science in Project Management demonstrates our commitment to expanding high-quality graduate education that prepares students for leadership in today’s workforce. We are creating new opportunities for professionals to advance their careers while continuing Wilberforce’s historic mission of developing ethical leaders who make meaningful contributions to their communities.” >>Read More


The university offers 19 areas of study (majors) leading to an undergraduate degree (bachelor of arts or bachelor of science), and one area of study offering a graduate degree (master of science). The university also offers through the Credentials for Leadership in Management and Business (CLIMB) Program—four areas of study leading to an undergraduate degree.

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Wilberforce University Staff