WILLIAM CAREY INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY

History

Charting a Legacy of Global Impact: Journey with us Through the Life of William Carey International University

 
William Carey International University (WCIU) is founded in Pasadena, CA, under the visionary leadership of Dr. Ralph D. Winter. Dr. Winter’s vision for WCIU revolves around providing a transformative educational experience that integrates rigorous academic study with practical application in the field of international development. The university is incorporated with a clear mission to address global challenges through research-based programs, emphasizing the interconnectedness of social sciences and historical context in shaping effective solutions.


Dr. Ralph Winter was a global mission conference favorite.

February 1977

BEGINNINGS

WCIU achieves a significant milestone with institutional approval from the State of California to offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in International Development. This validation underscores the university’s commitment to academic excellence and its innovative approach to education by extension, which allows students to engage in learning without geographical constraints.

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In 1978

INSTITUTIONAL APPROVAL

Building on its foundational programs, WCIU expands its academic offerings to include specialized undergraduate and graduate degrees in areas such as Intercultural Communications, Community Development, and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). This expansion reflects the university’s responsiveness to emerging needs in the field of international development and its dedication to equipping students with diverse skill sets for impactful global engagement.

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In 1994

EXPANSION OF PROGRAMS

The WCIU faculty embark on a comprehensive journey of curriculum development, culminating in the creation of the World Christian Foundations (WCF) curriculum. This groundbreaking curriculum represents a paradigm shift in educational approaches, weaving together insights from liberal arts and seminary studies to provide students with a holistic understanding of God’s global purposes throughout history. The WCF curriculum becomes the cornerstone of WCIU’s academic programs, shaping the intellectual and spiritual formation of generations of scholar practitioners.

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WCIU integrates liberal arts and seminary studies to illuminate God’s global purposes.

During 1994-2009

DEVELOPMENT OF WCF CURRICULUM

The passing of Dr. Ralph D. Winter marks a significant transition for WCIU, as the university mourns the loss of its visionary founder and esteemed leader. Dr. Winter’s legacy looms large, leaving an indelible imprint on the institution’s ethos and guiding principles. His pioneering spirit and commitment to innovative education continue to inspire the WCIU community as they navigate the challenges of leadership succession. Dr. Snodderly started as acting President in 2009 but was appointed as full-time President in 2010 and served until January 2016.

In 2009

PASSING OF DR. RALPH D. WINTER

With the appointment of Dr. Kevin Higgins as President, WCIU enters a new era characterized by renewed leadership and strategic direction. Dr. Higgins brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the university, steering its course towards greater relevance and impact in an ever-changing global landscape.

May 2017

NEW PRESIDENT APPOINTED

WCIU undergoes a process of introspection and refinement, resulting in the adoption of a new mission statement that encapsulates its commitment to excellence and innovation in distance education. The revised mission underscores the university’s dedication to empowering scholar practitioners to develop transformational solutions to complex global challenges, aligning its academic programs with the evolving needs of the world.


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In 2018

REFINEMENT OF MISSION

The sale of WCIU’s campus to EF Education First that same year represents a strategic move towards consolidation and focus on the core mission of education and research. This transition marks the beginning of a new chapter for the university, as it redefines its physical footprint while reaffirming its commitment to academic excellence and global engagement.

CAMPUS SALE

The appointment of Rev. Dr. Paul Premsekaran Cornelius as President heralds a significant milestone for WCIU, as the university welcomes its first leader from the Global South. Dr. Cornelius’s background and expertise position him as a catalyst for change, bringing a fresh perspective and a deep understanding of the challenges facing communities around the world. Under his leadership, WCIU embarks on a journey of renewal and expansion, poised to make an even greater impact on the global stage.

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In 2023

NEW PRESIDENT FROM THE GLOBAL SOUTH

As President Paul Cornelius assumes leadership, WCIU enters a new era characterized by innovation, collaboration, and impact. Dr. Cornelius’s vision for the university encompasses a renewed focus on research and preparation to address the root causes of human problems worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and a dedication to serving others, WCIU embarks on a transformative journey, poised to shape the future of global development and education for generations to come.


Dr. Paul Cornelius becomes the 10th University President, the first from the Global South, a testament to divine guidance.

A NEW ERA BEGINS

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Join us on our mission of global impact and transformation! Explore our innovative programs, engage with our vibrant community, and become a catalyst for change.