Ohio Wesleyan University | About OWU

About OWU

Academics

History

Elliott Hall, the University’s oldest building, is on the National Register of Historic Places.

F OUNDED BY METHODISTS in 1842, OWU maintains an active affiliation with The United Methodist Church but is recognized nationally for welcoming students of all religious faiths. The University provides support for all denominations and coordinates an active program of social action and community service.

Known early in its history as the “West Point of Missions” because of the number of graduates who served abroad as missionaries, Ohio Wesleyan later was recognized for the number of alumni who served as Peace Corps volunteers.

Today, you’ll find that more than 80 percent of your OWU friends and classmates participate in volunteerism and community service. If you’re passionate about helping others, OWU is the place for you. Our students have:

Built HIV/AIDS clinics in Africa
Served with the Sisters of Charity in Rome
Established the Student Initiative for International Development, a microloan program that raises and lends money to entrepreneurs in developing countries
Created a nationwide network for study of the effects of Agent Orange
Helped to rebuild parts of New Orleans hard hit by Hurricane Katrina
Confronted poverty in Washington, D.C. and Chicago

You can also be active in local organizations and agencies ranging from the Delaware Humane Society to the Delaware County Juvenile Court, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity, and many, many more. (See What to Do at OWU for a comprehensive list of organizations) Giving back. Paying forward. Both are deeply ingrained in the spirit of Ohio Wesleyan.

Throughout the generations, Ohio Wesleyan has produced leaders in the arts, humanities, science, social sciences, and sports. Today, our faculty, students, and alumni continue to be recognized for their contributions across the entire spectrum of human endeavor. We encourage you find your passion here—and to follow it.