SPRING 2009

Shorter University: 'A new name on an old friend'

June 1, 2010, will mark an exciting new chapter in Shorter history as the college transitions to university status. The change is an important part of fulfilling the institution’s strategic plan for the future.

“Since its founding in 1873, Shorter has had a reputation for providing excellent academics within a caring environment,” said President Dr. Harold E. Newman. “Our aim is to create a university where students will receive a top quality education in an environment that fosters spiritual growth. University status reflects what Shorter has already become through the extraordinary growth and progress of recent years.” Today, the college enrolls approximately 3,000 students who study on four campuses in Rome, North Atlanta, Lawrenceville and Riverdale.

By changing its name to Shorter University, the institution will be better able to respond to market forces within the state of Georgia and within the higher education community at large. Prospective students are often unsure as to whether they can receive a four-year degree at Shorter since the Georgia Board of Regents has redefined the term “college” to include two-year community colleges and technical schools.

“Becoming Shorter University positions us for future growth,” Dr. Newman said. “It does not, however, change the nature of Shorter. We remain committed to providing a high-quality educational experience that features personal interactions with faculty, a strong focus on students, and excellence in all areas. Shorter University is simply a new name on an old friend.”

Dr. Newman added that the change would require little internal restructuring since the college already functions within a university-style structure. “For much of the past decade, we have operated under a university model in that we have had separate schools headed by deans and have offered graduate programs. This change in designation solidifies that reputation,” he said.

The status change was approved by the Shorter College Board of Trustees at its October meeting and by messengers attending the annual meeting of the Georgia Baptist Convention in November. The convention’s approval was necessary because the status change requires an amendment to Shorter’s charter.