Heritage

In 1873 the Springfield Association of Congregational Churches resolved to open an institution of higher learning in southwest Missouri, to assist in healing the horrid wounds of the civil war. Drury’s founders envisioned a college that would bring the New England liberal arts tradition to a Midwestern setting, and viewed their students as future teachers of religion and morality, as well as classically educated citizens and leaders. The founders believed that the silent work of reconciliation, occurring as the children of Confederates and Unionists sat together in classes, would contribute to real union of all parts of the country. Academic rigor and liberal learning have always been cornerstones of a Drury education. Drury’s initial requirements for admission and curriculum were modeled after the best eastern colleges.

Although Drury has grown in size and complexity, its nature and mission have remained unchanged for more than 130 years. Drury’s classrooms have always been places where teachers and students engaged the great questions of the day. Religion and reason have co-existed from the beginning, as have the liberal arts and professional programs. Drury has maintained long-standing covenant relations with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ. These faith communities have supported a progressive culture in which women and men have always been admitted and educated on an equal basis, diverse faith identities are respected, and intellectual inquiry is honored. These institutional commitments to inclusion, diversity and academic freedom continue to this day.

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	Mission of Drury University