Our Mission Stands Firm in the Faith
Mount Vernon Nazarene University has come a long way since our pioneering leaders turned a cornfield into a college in 1968. Building on a strong “Nazarene” tradition, we challenge students to be a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ in every context, discipline, and profession.
Seasons change, but the mission and values that shaped our intentionally Christian institution of higher learning remain. We are, and will always be, a co-educational liberal arts university with an intentionally Christian foundation and mission.
Together with our students and alumni, we will continue to carry the flame as light and life in our communities and around the world.
Who We are
MVNU’s educational philosophy and purpose are shaped by Wesleyan-Arminian holiness theological roots, informed by the Bible, focused on Christ-likeness in every aspect of life, and defined by an emphasis on loving God with all of one’s heart, mind, soul, and strength, as well as one’s neighbors as one’s self.
Students are nurtured and empowered through caring relationships with faculty, staff, and administrators; challenged to be devoted disciples of Christ; drawn toward discovery of wisdom and truth in every discipline of study; prepared for leadership in various professions; equipped to be lifelong learners; and sent into the world to live out their faith by offering their hearts and lives in service to God and others.
Focused on Diversity
Even in rural Ohio, MVNU is characterized by an environment where diversity is celebrated and differences in ethnicity, denomination, gender, economic level, and stage of spiritual development are embraced.