The earliest incarnation of Chapman University was open to all people in the belief that every person should have access to an education. In fact, our first class included women and people of different ethnicities and faiths. Our heritage of diversity and inclusion provides us our strong foundation as we participate in building a more equitable future.
Chapman University has always been a place where potential translates to possibility. Our history is a wealth of unique cultural experiences, connecting us to the past, tuning us to the present and ushering us into our future.
A lot has changed since we first opened our doors in 1861, originally in Woodland, California. However, since day one, we've been proudly dedicated to the education of all people, and we stand committed to creating an inclusive and more equitable world of opportunity.
At Chapman, we have always believed in more: more knowledge, risk-taking, discovery, passion, creativity and exploration. We believe in being exceptional — in unlocking unlimited potential, in creating experiences that last a lifetime and in doing work that changes lives.
We began with inclusivity, a passion for teaching and learning, and forward-looking optimism. We’ve continued to champion those goals throughout Chapman’s existence -- and we’re still growing. Good things are happening because we make them happen.