The New American Colleges and Universities Welcomes University of Evansville and University of Redlands 

The New American Colleges and Universities (NACU) proudly welcomes two distinguished institutions back to its national consortium: the University of Redlands (Redlands, Calif.) and the University of Evansville(Evansville, Ind.).

“Redlands and Evansville exemplify the kind of forward-thinking, values-driven education that NACU was founded to champion,” said Sean Creighton, president of NACU. “Their return underscores the power of collaboration among institutions rooted in liberal and professional learning, civic purpose, and student-centered innovation.”

NACU traces its origins to an influential 1990 essay, The Ugly Duckling of Higher Education, by Frank Wong, then vice president for academic affairs at the University of Redlands, which sought to explain the significance and value of comprehensive colleges and universities. In an era of increasing specialization and commercialization of higher education, Wong’s call to balance liberal education with professional readiness feels as urgent now as it was in 1990. 

“As the story goes, the ugly duckling becomes the beautiful swan, much like NACU institutions,” added Creighton.

“This is more than a reconnection. It is a return to our roots,” said University of Redlands President Krista Newkirk. “Rejoining NACU reinforces what has long been true about Redlands – we are at our best when collaborating with others who share our commitment to student success. At a time when institutions like ours are more essential than ever, I am proud to once again stand alongside our NACU peers to help shape the future of higher education and prepare students to lead in a rapidly changing world.” 

As NACU marks its 30th anniversary, the return of these two dynamic institutions reflects the consortium’s momentum and continued relevance in today’s rapidly evolving higher education landscape. Participation in NACU offers campus-wide benefits with programming that includes learning communities, leadership development, free professional development webinars, and data benchmarking for administrators, faculty, and staff.

“It’s an exciting step forward for the University of Evansville,” said President Christopher M. Pietruszkiewicz. “NACU brings a powerful network of collaborators who are deeply committed to education, innovation, and service, values that align with our mission and our belief in the ability of education to change lives and, in turn, change the world. We’re proud to rejoin this community and look forward to all we can achieve together.”

About the University of Evansville

The University of Evansville, established in 1854, is a private, comprehensive university known worldwide for its tradition of academic excellence, innovative spirit, and vibrant community of #Changemakers. Located in southwest Indiana, UE offers more than 75 majors, 17 Division I sports, and a one-of-a-kind study abroad experience at Harlaxton, its Victorian manor in the English countryside.

About the University of Redlands

Founded in 1907, the University of Redlands is a private, nonprofit institution that prepares students for lives of meaning, impact, and joy. Nationally ranked for its academic excellence, innovation, and commitment to student success, Redlands offers more than 50 undergraduate and 30 graduate programs at its main campus in Redlands, as well as locations in the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles. Through immersive, personalized education and hands-on learning opportunities, including community service internships and professional residencies, Redlands empowers students to grow both personally and professionally.