Fresno Pacific University celebrates 80th Anniversary with worship, song and sweets

Eighty years to the day after 28 students and their teachers began classes at Pacific Bible Institute, more than 400 students, faculty, staff, administrators, board members and guests celebrated the birthday of Fresno Pacific University.

Both days featured a shining sun and voices raised in song. On September 18, 1944, the hymn was "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" to show optimism for the future. On September 18, 2024, "Great is Thy Faithfulness," recognized God's guidance over the decades.

"We are standing on the shoulders of visionary leaders, dedicated faculty and staff and students, who all believe in the power of a Christian education," said Becky Bradley, vice president of marketing and communication, in opening the 80^th festivities in the Warkentine Culture and Arts Center on the main campus, 1717 S. Chestnut Ave., Fresno.

Worship was also a part of the opening and the anniversary, from the prayers eight decades ago to College Hour Chapel today. Jordan Ringhofer, district minister for the Pacific District Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches (FPU's sponsoring denomination), talked about three essential points of Anabaptism, the Christian movement from which the Mennonite Brethren came:

• Jesus is the center of our faith
• Community is the center of our life
• Reconciliation is the center of our work

"We believe we are a community that goes out and has an impact on the world. Each student reflects that belief," said Ringhofer, a graduate of FPU and Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary, now part of the university, and a member of the university board of trustees.

After chapel, Orange Crush and Mountain Berry Blast Powerade-symbolizing FPU's blue and orange school colors-were available in the lobby, along with a birthday cake and cupcakes. Cupcakes are also available this week at the regional campuses in Merced, North Fresno, Visalia and Bakersfield.

Where We Come From

By 1960, the school had moved to its present main campus, a former cotton field, and become Pacific College. Accreditation to offer bachelor's degrees came in 1965 and the first master's program was approved in 1974, two years before PC became Fresno Pacific College. A milestone came in 1990 with the first bachelor's degree completion (DC) classes to help adults with some college experience achieve their dream of a four-year degree while meeting work and family obligations. The institution took the name Fresno Pacific University in 1997 and today its impact is felt through about 26,000 alumni, 95% of whom come from California-most from The Central Valley.

Who We Are

All Fresno Pacific students reflect the diverse face of its region. Of the nearly 2,900 new high school graduates, working professionals and those returning to college to complete their degree who study at the five campuses, 52% of undergraduates come from families earning less than $40,000 a year, 60% of traditional undergraduate students are the first in their families to attend college and 59% of all students identify as Hispanic. All enjoy the Valley's highest graduation rates. Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary educates ministers, church and parachurch leaders and marriage and family therapists. The university also has a growing number of online degrees and provides development courses to thousands of professionals across the country.

Why we celebrate

Today FPU is still the only Christian university based in the Central Valley. Its emphasis on faith, wisdom and service helps graduates explore the possibilities for themselves, their families, their communities and their professions. Rooted in a mission to "develop students for leadership and service through excellence in Christian higher education" the university has built a legacy that continues to empower students to serve with ethical leadership and innovative spirit. Fresno Pacific continues to be a place where the potential of every individual is nurtured and expanded, empowering students and nurturing leaders equipped to make a difference in the world.

As FPU honors its past, member of the university community look forward to a future filled with even greater impact, while staying true to the vision of transformation and the mission of shaping lives for service and leadership.

Homecoming continues 80^th Anniversary

Homecoming October 3-5, 2024, is the next event on the 80^th Anniversary calendar. Events Include:

• Believers Church Lecture Series
• President's 80^th Anniversary Celebration
• Hispanic Heritage Month Family Night
• Social Work Reunion
• Sunbird Tip-Off Dinner
• Choir Reunion and Concert
• Athletic Activities
• BBQ and Activities on The Green

The theme of the 80^th Anniversary is adapted from the words on the FPU seal: Faith | Wisdom | Service

Keep up with all things 80^th at https://80.fpu.edu

All events are on the main FPU campus, 1717 S. Chestnut Ave., Fresno, unless otherwise noted. Some events may require admission or membership in a particular group. Check the website for further details.

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