Ohio Wesleyan University

Led by the Methodist minister, 172 citizens raised $10,000 to help purchase the former Mansion House Hotel, now known as Elliott Hall. The University's official charter was granted from the Ohio Legislature on March 7, 1842.

Ohio Wesleyan has been acquiring traditions since 1844, when the College of Liberal Arts opened its doors with an enrollment of 29 male students taught by three professors.

In 1853, the Ohio Wesleyan Female College, an independent institution, was established in Delaware and four years later moved into the new Monnett Hall. In 1877, the Female College and the University merged, and during the 1977-78 academic year, Ohio Wesleyan celebrated 100 years of coeducation.

The University maintains its historic Methodist ties, but supports students of all faith backgrounds.

The beginning of each school year is marked with a Convocation ceremony. Held during Orientation, Convocation is one of only two times when an entire class year of students comes together in one place (the other time being Commencement). During the Convocation ceremony, which professors attend in full academic regalia, campus leaders share advice, inspiration, and an overview of the many accomplishments of the incoming class of Bishops.

At the beginning of each academic year, Ohio Wesleyan also holds a Day on the JAY celebration when the entire campus — students, faculty, and staff — come together for food and fun. Weather permitting, the event is held outdoors on the JAYwalk (formally known as the James A. Young Memorial Walkway). A second Day on the JAY is held at the end of spring semester to bring everyone together one more time before the academic year ends.