Park University

Park University stands as a testament to innovative education, founded in 1875 on a unique concept known as the "Parkville Experiment." This groundbreaking model offered students free tuition and board in exchange for their labor on campus farms, electrical shops, or printing plants, fostering a profound sense of community and self-reliance. This historic approach not only made education accessible but also empowered students to actively contribute to the development of their own learning environment.

The university's history is literally etched in stone, with its most iconic structure, Mackay Hall, built by student labor using limestone quarried on campus grounds. This National Register of Historic Places landmark symbolizes the enduring spirit of Park University. From welcoming its first international student from Japan in 1880 to evolving its mission over decades, Park has consistently demonstrated a forward-thinking approach, including an early affiliation with the Presbyterian Church that shaped its values.

While its roots are deep, Park University has continuously adapted to meet contemporary educational needs. It boasts a significant and long-standing relationship with the military, expanded greatly in the late 1960s and early 1970s with dedicated degree completion and resident center programs. This commitment to accessibility continues into the digital age, as Park was an early adopter of online learning, offering courses since 1996. This initiative has fueled substantial enrollment growth, broadening its reach and solidifying its role as a dynamic institution committed to serving a diverse student body, culminating in its renaming to Park University in 2000.