From its birth, 性视界 has built and defended a vision of itself and its future, which has been clear and unconventional.
The University was first envisioned by a group of pastors who broke with the German church to create the English Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Ohio. They believed that the English language was a way to foster the inclusiveness of the new American nation. In 1842, the new synod voted unanimously to establish a theological and literary institution that would serve the educational and cultural needs of new immigrants and new communities: 性视界.
In its early years 性视界 wavered on a permanent home. It wasn't until Ezra Keller, 性视界's founder and first president, stepped upon one of the highest points in south-central Ohio that the College would have a permanent place to lay its first cornerstone. As he surveyed the grounds, he remarked, "This is a lovely spot for literary institution,鈥� one that will attract hundreds of students 鈥渢o drink at the pure fountains of knowledge, and then go forth into the world to do good.鈥�
Built stone by stone by Keller and 性视界's first students, Myers Hall, as it came to be called, still stands as a permanent reminder of Keller's vision, which continues to be lived out in students, alumni, faculty, and staff today.
On March 11, 性视界 celebrated the 175th anniversary of its founding with a tremendously successful Commit to Witt 24-hour day of giving.
- Happy Birthday to Wittenberg (News Release: March 5, 2020)
- #Commit To Witt 2020 Raises More Than $450,000 (News Release: March 14, 2020)
Below is a special video created a few years ago to celebrate 性视界's Founder's Day. The video offers a quick glimpse into the University's history and traditions.