History of Liberty University in Timeline
Liberty University (LU), or simply Liberty, is a private evangelical Christian university located in Lynchburg, Virginia. It is affiliated with the Southern Baptist Conservatives of Virginia. Established in 1971 by Jerry Falwell Sr. and Elmer L. Towns as Lynchburg Baptist College, Liberty is one of the largest Christian universities globally and one of the biggest private non-profit universities in the U.S. based on total student enrollment.
1923: Carter Glass Mansion Constructed
The Carter Glass Mansion, also known as Montview, was built in 1923 for Carter Glass, a prominent figure who served as a U.S. senator, U.S. treasury secretary, and held other key positions.
1971: Founding of Liberty University
Liberty University was founded in 1971 by Jerry Falwell Sr. and Elmer L. Towns as Lynchburg Baptist College.
1971: Jerry Falwell Sr. as Chancellor
Jerry Falwell Sr. served as the first chancellor of Lynchburg Baptist College when it was founded in 1971.
1971: Liberty University Founded
Liberty University was established in 1971, marking the beginning of its journey as a prominent Christian institution.
1973: Liberty University Rawlings School of Divinity Founded
The Liberty University Rawlings School of Divinity, initially known as Liberty Divinity School, was established in 1973. It is recognized as the world's largest divinity school based on student enrollment in degree programs.
1976: Name Change to Liberty Baptist College
In 1976, Lynchburg Baptist College changed its name to Liberty Baptist College. The change was meant to distance the school from the name Lynchburg.
1979: Falwell Sr. Heads Moral Majority
From 1979 onwards, Jerry Falwell Sr., already chancellor of Lynchburg Baptist College, became head of the Moral Majority, a right-wing political organization.
1980: SACS Regional Accreditation
In 1980, Liberty University received regional accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), demonstrating its adherence to educational standards.
1983: The Big South Conference Celebrates 25 Years of History
The year 1983 marked the beginning of a quarter-century of history for the Big South Conference, a period filled with memorable moments and achievements in college athletics.
September 1984: TRACS Accreditation
Liberty University was accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) in September 1984, marking its commitment to Christian education.
1984: Name Change to Liberty University
Liberty Baptist College became Liberty University in 1984.
1985: Launch of Distance-Learning Program
Liberty University launched its distance-learning program in 1985, initially using VHS tapes. This marked the beginning of what would become Liberty's online program.
1985: Liberty University Men's Club Ice Hockey Team is Founded
Men's hockey at Liberty University began in 1985 when students organized a team to compete against surrounding colleges and clubs.
1987: Liberty University's Tax-Exempt Status is Officially Recognized
Liberty University's 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status was formally recognized by the IRS in 1987.
October 21, 1989: Liberty University Football Team Plays First Home Game at Williams Stadium
On October 21, 1989, Liberty University's football team marked a significant milestone by playing their first home game at Williams Stadium. This event signified the beginning of a new era for the program, providing a dedicated home venue for their games.
1989: Williams Stadium Opens
Williams Stadium, home to the Liberty Flames football team, opened in 1989 with a seating capacity of 25,000.
1990: Liberty University's Debt
By 1990, Liberty University's debt had reached $110 million.
1990: George H.W. Bush becomes the first sitting U.S. president to speak at Liberty University's commencement
In 1990, George H.W. Bush became the first sitting U.S. president to deliver a commencement address at Liberty University.
1990: Liberty University Faces Financial Challenges and Probation
In the 1990s, Liberty University faced financial difficulties, accumulating a debt of $110 million in 1990. The university was placed on probation multiple times by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools due to its heavy debt. The Unification Church was an early donor to the university.
1992: U.S. Department of Education Preliminary Report Suggests Liberty University's Underreporting of Crime Statistics May Date Back to 1992
A 2023 preliminary report by the U.S. Department of Education suggested that Liberty University's culture of underreporting crime statistics, including incidents of sexual assault and other serious offenses, may have originated as far back as 1992. The report highlighted the university's alleged systemic failure to accurately report and address campus crime, raising concerns about the institution's commitment to student safety over a prolonged period.
1994: Funding From Women's Federation for World Peace
In 1994, Liberty University received $3.5 million from Sun Myung Moon's Women's Federation for World Peace.
1994: Liberty University Receives Donation From Women's Federation for World Peace
In 1994, Liberty University received $3.5 million from Sun Myung Moon's Women's Federation for World Peace.
1996: Liberty University Women's Basketball Team Begins Historic 10-Year Championship Run
The year 1996 marked the beginning of an extraordinary era for Liberty University's women's basketball team as they embarked on an unprecedented 10-year championship run in the Big South Conference. This remarkable period of dominance cemented their status as a powerhouse in the conference and left an indelible mark on the history of Big South athletics.
1996: U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas delivers commencement address at Liberty University
In 1996, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas gave the commencement address at Liberty University.
1996: Liberty University Receives Loan From News World Communications
Liberty's debt decreased to $40 million by 1996. That same year, News World Communications provided a loan of $400,000 to Liberty University.
1996: Decrease in Liberty University's Debt
Liberty University's debt decreased to $40 million in 1996.
1999: Relationship with Southern Baptist Conservatives of Virginia
Since 1999, Liberty University has maintained an informal relationship with the Southern Baptist Conservatives of Virginia (affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention), with two members from the organization serving on the university's board of trustees.
August 2004: Law School Opening
Liberty University School of Law officially opened its doors in August 2004, expanding the university's academic offerings to include legal education.
2004: School of Government Named After Jesse Helms
Liberty University named its School of Government after Senator Jesse Helms in 2004.
2005: Liberty University Admission Ranked "Competitive"
Barron's Profiles of American Colleges ranked undergraduate admission to Liberty University as "competitive" in 2005.
2005: Liberty University Debate Team Ranks 20th in Varsity Rankings at National Debate Tournament
In 2005, Liberty University's debate team demonstrated its competitive spirit by ranking 20th in the varsity category at the National Debate Tournament.
2006: Liberty University Debate Team Ranks First Overall in National Debate Tournament Championships
In 2006, Liberty University's Inter-Collegiate policy debate program achieved a remarkable feat by ranking first overall in their division at the National Debate Tournament Championships. This success reflected the program's consistent excellence and dedication to competitive debating.
2006: Provisional ABA Accreditation for Law School
Liberty University School of Law obtained provisional accreditation from the American Bar Association (ABA) in 2006, a step toward full accreditation.
2006: Liberty University Reports Net Assets of $100 Million
In 2006, Liberty University reported having approximately $100 million in net assets, including cash, property, investments, and other holdings.
2006: Liberty University Opens LaHaye Ice Center and Establishes Division I Men's ACHA Club Hockey Team
In 2006, Liberty University opened the 3,000-seat LaHaye Ice Center, a generous gift from Timothy and Beverly LaHaye. That same year, Liberty became the only school in Virginia to host a men's Division I American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) club hockey team.
May 15, 2007: Jerry Falwell's Death
Jerry Falwell, the founder of Liberty University, died at his desk in the Carter Glass Mansion on May 15, 2007. He and his wife are buried on the mansion's rear lawn, which also features a memorial to Falwell.
2007: Jerry Falwell Jr. Becomes Chancellor
After the death of Jerry Falwell Sr. in 2007, his son, Jerry Falwell Jr., became Liberty University's second chancellor.
2007: Jerry Falwell Jr. Becomes President of Liberty University
At the start of Jerry Falwell Jr.'s presidency in 2007, the university reported $259 million in assets.
2007: Liberty University Debate Team Repeats Victory at National Debate Tournament Championships
Continuing their streak of success, Liberty University's debate team once again secured the top overall ranking in their division at the National Debate Tournament Championships in 2007.
2007: Josh McDougal Wins NCAA Division I Individual Laurels in Cross Country
In 2007, Josh McDougal, a member of Liberty's men's cross country team, won the NCAA Division I individual laurels.
2007: Liberty University Women's Basketball Team's 10-Year Championship Run Crowned as No. 1 Moment in Big South History
In a testament to their sustained excellence and impact on the conference, Liberty University's women's basketball team's decade-long championship run, spanning from 1996 to 2007, was recognized as the No. 1 moment in the Big South Conference's 25-year history. This accolade underscores the team's exceptional achievements and lasting legacy within the conference.
2007: Keith Anderson Becomes Dean of Students at Liberty University
Keith Anderson began his tenure as dean of students at Liberty University in 2007. Anderson would hold this position until 2014 when he was appointed director of student health records. However, his time at Liberty would be marked by serious allegations of harassment and misconduct, coming to light in a 2023 USA Today article that investigated a pattern of such behavior at the institution.
2007: Liberty University Online Academy is Established
Liberty University Online Academy (LUOA), a K-12 private school, was established in 2007 to serve academically talented students worldwide. It is accredited by SACS (Southern Association of Schools and Colleges).
2007: Formation of Liberty University Online Academy
Liberty University Online Academy was formed in 2007, initially serving 23 students.
November 6, 2008: Resignation from TRACS Accreditation
On November 6, 2008, Liberty University voluntarily resigned its accreditation from the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS).
2008: Liberty University Debate Team Achieves 12th Place in Varsity Rankings at National Debate Tournament
Liberty University's debate team further showcased its capabilities in 2008 by securing 12th place in the varsity rankings at the National Debate Tournament, demonstrating continued growth and improvement.
2008: Big South Conference Recognizes Top 25 Moments in its History
As part of its 25th-anniversary celebrations in 2008, the Big South Conference honored the top 25 "Best of the Best" moments from its history, spanning from 1983 to 2008. This commemorative initiative aimed to highlight the most significant events and accomplishments that had shaped the conference's legacy over the years.
2008: Employee Accuses Keith Anderson of Harassment
A woman who sued Liberty University in 2021 alleged that Keith Anderson, a staff member at the institution, made sexually explicit comments to her and her colleagues from 2008 to 2011. This accusation, along with others, would contribute to a growing body of evidence suggesting a pattern of harassment and misconduct by Anderson during his time at Liberty.
August 2009: Liberty Mountain Snowflex Centre Opens
In August 2009, Liberty University completed construction on the Liberty Mountain Snowflex Centre, the first synthetic ski slope of its kind in the United States.
December 9, 2009: Achieving Level VI SACS Accreditation
On December 9, 2009, Liberty University proudly announced its attainment of Level VI accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), the highest classification signifying its offering of four or more doctoral degrees.
2009: Liberty University stops recognizing the Democratic Party student group
In 2009, Liberty University ceased recognition of the university's Democratic Party student group, citing conflicts with the school's conservative Christian principles.
2009: Liberty University Debate Team Achieves Third National Debate Tournament Championship Win
In 2009, Liberty University's debate team celebrated their third victory at the National Debate Tournament Championships, solidifying their position as a leading force in intercollegiate debate.
2009: Samuel Chelanga Begins his Reign as NCAA Division I Cross Country Champion
Samuel Chelanga, a member of the Liberty men's cross country team, began his reign as the NCAA Division I individual champion in 2009.
2009: Liberty University Withdraws Recognition of Young Democrats Club
In 2009, Liberty University withdrew official recognition of the student Young Democrats club stating that the club's political positions conflicted with the school's.
December 2010: Liberty University Sells Facilities Bonds to Finance Expansion
Liberty University sold $120 million in facilities bonds in December 2010 to finance expansion.
2010: ABA Accreditation for Law School
Liberty University School of Law received full accreditation from the American Bar Association (ABA) in 2010, marking a significant milestone in its legal education program.
2010: Samuel Chelanga Continues to Dominate NCAA Division I Cross Country, Sets Collegiate 10,000-Meter Record
Samuel Chelanga continued his winning streak in 2010, securing his second NCAA Division I individual cross country championship. He also set the collegiate 10,000-meter record this year. Over his three years competing, he earned two additional gold medals and three silvers in outdoor and indoor competitions, along with 14 All-American honors.
2010: Liberty University Becomes Largest Evangelical Christian University
In 2010, Liberty University achieved the distinction of being the largest Evangelical Christian university globally, considering both on-campus and online students.
2010: Full ABA Accreditation for Law School
In 2010, Liberty University School of Law was granted full accreditation by the American Bar Association (ABA), solidifying its status as a reputable law school.
2010: Liberty University Debate Team Makes it Four National Debate Tournament Championships in a Row
Adding to their impressive track record, Liberty University's debate team claimed their fourth consecutive first-place finish at the National Debate Tournament Championships in 2010.
2010: Liberty Students Receive $445 Million in Federal Aid
Liberty University students received approximately $445 million in federal financial aid in 2010.
2011: Employee Accuses Keith Anderson of Harassment
A woman who sued Liberty University in 2021 alleged that Keith Anderson, a staff member at the institution, made sexually explicit comments to her and her colleagues from 2008 to 2011. This accusation, along with others, would contribute to a growing body of evidence suggesting a pattern of harassment and misconduct by Anderson during his time at Liberty.
2011: Liberty University Blocks Access to Local Newspaper
In 2011, Liberty University blocked access to the News & Advocate, a local newspaper, after it published a report on the school's dependence on federal aid.
2011: High Black Student Population
In 2011, Liberty University had a Black student population of 19.9%, indicating a diverse student body.
2011: Overall Acceptance Rate
In 2011, Liberty University's overall acceptance rate, encompassing both residential and online students, was 51%, reflecting its accessibility to a wider student population.
2011: Liberty University Debate Team Extends Winning Streak to Five National Debate Tournament Championships
Liberty University's debate team's dominance continued in 2011 as they secured their fifth consecutive top overall ranking at the National Debate Tournament Championships. This remarkable achievement showcased the program's sustained dedication to excellence in competitive debating.
2011: Retired firefighter has vision of Trump's presidency
The film "The Trump Prophecy", co-produced by Liberty's Zaki Gordon Cinematic Arts Center, centers around a retired Florida firefighter who claimed to have received a vision from God in 2011, revealing Trump's future presidency.
January 2012: Liberty University Sells Taxable Bonds to Fund Capital Projects
Liberty sold an additional $100 million in taxable bonds in January 2012 to support the funding of $225.2 million in planned capital projects around the campus over the next five years. These projects included renovations and additions to academic buildings and student housing, funding the new Jerry Falwell Library, and the establishment of a medical school.
May 2012: Liberty University's Assets Increase to $1 Billion
Five years into his presidency, in May 2012, Falwell Jr. announced that Liberty University's total assets had risen to $1 billion, attributed to the success of its online learning program and accelerated facility expansion.
December 7, 2012: Hancock Welcome Center Ribbon Cutting
On December 7, 2012, Liberty University celebrated the opening of the Hancock Welcome Center, a three-level, 33,000-square-foot building designed in the Jeffersonian style.
2012: School of Music Formation
In 2012, Liberty University merged its departments of worship and music studies and of music and humanities, creating a comprehensive School of Music with two distinct centers.
2012: Donald Trump receives an honorary doctor of business degree from Liberty University
Donald Trump was awarded an honorary doctor of business degree from Liberty University in 2012 after speaking at the university's convocation.
2012: Liberty University Sets Big South Record with Five Consecutive Sasser Cup Wins
In 2012, Liberty University achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the first school in the Big South Conference to win the coveted Sasser Cup for five consecutive years. The Sasser Cup is awarded to the university with the most successful overall athletic program among conference members. Liberty's consistent dominance in this regard solidifies its status as a powerhouse in Big South athletics.
June 2013: Liberty Baseball Stadium Completed
The Liberty Baseball Stadium was completed in June 2013, becoming the new home of Liberty Baseball.
2013: Liberty University Becomes Largest Private Non-Profit University in the US
By 2013, Liberty University had grown to become the largest private non-profit university in the United States, marking a significant milestone in its history.
2013: Employee Accuses Keith Anderson of Assault
In 2013, an employee under Keith Anderson's supervision at Liberty University accused him of drugging and assaulting her at her home. The employee alleged that Anderson showed up unannounced, provided her with unlabeled medication that left her feeling disoriented, and proceeded to sexually assault her. This incident became part of a wider pattern of accusations against Anderson, surfacing years later in a 2023 USA Today investigation.
2013: Liberty University's Bonds Receive Upgraded Rating from Moody's Investors Services
The bonds issued by Liberty University received an "AA" rating from Standard & Poor's. In 2013, Moody's Investors Services upgraded the rating to "Aa3" with a "stable outlook" projection, citing the university's "increasing scope of activity", "large pool of financial reserves", "uncommonly strong operating performance", and "discipline around building and maintaining reserves".
January 2014: Jerry Falwell Library Opens
The Jerry Falwell Library, a four-story, 170,000-square-foot facility, opened in January 2014. It housed over 250,000 items with space for another 170,000, accessible through a robot-assisted retrieval system.
August 2014: Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine Opens
The Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine (LUCOM) was established in August 2014 with partial funding from a $12 million matching grant from the Virginia Tobacco Commission.
2014: Northern Pacific Field Hockey Conference Disbands
In 2014, the Northern Pacific Field Hockey Conference, of which Liberty University's field hockey team was a member, disbanded, leading to adjustments in the team's competitive landscape.
2014: Medical School Opening and Accreditation
Liberty University's medical school commenced operations in 2014, receiving accreditation from the American Osteopathic Association Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (AOA-COCA).
2014: Liberty University sponsors NASCAR driver William Byron
In 2014, Liberty University began sponsoring NASCAR driver William Byron, a student at the university, in a late model program run by JR Motorsports.
2014: Keith Anderson Becomes Director of Student Health Records at Liberty University
In 2014, Keith Anderson transitioned from his role as dean of students at Liberty University to become the director of student health records. Despite this shift in responsibilities, Anderson continued to be implicated in allegations of harassment and misconduct, raising concerns about the university's response to such accusations within its ranks.
July 2015: Liberty Mountain Medical Group Opens
In July 2015, the college of osteopathic medicine opened Liberty Mountain Medical Group LLC, a primary care clinic serving the Lynchburg area.
December 5, 2015: Jerry Falwell Jr. encourages students to obtain concealed handgun permits
On December 5, 2015, President Jerry Falwell Jr. encouraged students to obtain concealed handgun permits during a convocation speech. He made controversial remarks about Muslims in the context of the 2015 San Bernardino attack, which drew widespread condemnation.
December 2015: Controversy Erupts over Chancellor Falwell's Remarks Following San Bernardino Attack
In December 2015, Chancellor Jerry Falwell Jr.'s comments in the wake of the San Bernardino attack sparked controversy and raised concerns about Liberty University's suitability as a host for high school events.
2015: Liberty University Field Hockey Team Competes as an Independent
Following the dissolution of the Northern Pacific Field Hockey Conference, Liberty University's field hockey team spent the 2015 season competing as an independent entity, navigating a transitional period in its athletic journey.
2015: Liberty University Denies Discounted Tuition to Same-Sex and Trans Spouses of Military Personnel
In 2015, Liberty University faced criticism for denying discounted tuition rates to same-sex and transgender spouses of military personnel, a benefit that was offered to heterosexual military couples.
2015: Liberty Baseball Stadium Ranked Among Best College Ballpark Experiences
In 2015, The Liberty Baseball Stadium was ranked No. 4 among college ballpark experiences by Stadium Journey website. The stadium boasts 2,500 chairbacks, a locker room, four indoor batting tunnels, four luxury suites, offices for the baseball program, a weight room, a team room, and a fully functional press area. This same year, several Liberty Flames baseball players were drafted during the Major League Baseball draft. Some games are aired on local stations and some have even aired nationally on ESPNU.
2015: Liberty University Revises Honor Code: Permits R-rated Movies and M-rated Games
Liberty University revised its honor code in 2015, introducing changes that allowed students to watch movies rated "R" and play video games rated "M." This move represented a relaxation of some of the university's stricter rules.
2016: Liberty University's Alleged "Infrastructure of Thought-Control" Intensifies
Starting in 2016, concerns about an intensified "infrastructure of thought-control" at Liberty University, as alleged by former Champion editor Will Young, came to light. These concerns highlighted a perceived tightening of administrative control over student expression and campus life.
2016: SACS Accreditation Reaffirmed
Liberty University's regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) was reaffirmed in 2016, signifying its ongoing commitment to quality education.
2016: Concerns Arise Over Liberty University's Suitability as a Venue for High School Events
In 2016, following controversial remarks made by Chancellor Falwell, questions arose about whether Liberty University was an appropriate setting for high school events, prompting discussions about the university's environment and values.
2016: Liberty University Field Hockey Team Joins the Big East Conference
In 2016, Liberty University's field hockey team found a new home in the Big East Conference, marking a significant step in its development and providing a platform for competition at a higher level.
2016: Liberty University Orders Psychology Textbook with Omitted LGBTQ+ Content
In 2016, Liberty University drew further scrutiny for ordering a version of a psychology textbook that had sections related to LGBTQ+ topics removed, highlighting ongoing concerns about its stance on LGBTQ+ issues.
2016: Student editor claims Falwell censored an opinion column critical of Trump
A student editor at Liberty University's student newspaper alleged that Jerry Falwell Jr. censored an opinion piece critical of Donald Trump's lewd comments captured on an Access Hollywood tape in 2016.
2016: Donald Trump speaks at Liberty University's convocation
Donald Trump delivered a speech at Liberty University's convocation in 2016.
March 2017: Liberty University's Endowment and Assets Continue to Grow, Receives "Perfect" Financial Responsibility Score
In March 2017, Falwell Jr. stated that Liberty University's endowment had surpassed $1 billion and its gross assets exceeded $2 billion. The U.S. Department of Education assigned Liberty a "perfect" financial responsibility score.
May 2017: Donald Trump receives an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Liberty University
President Donald Trump was the keynote speaker at Liberty University's May 2017 commencement ceremony and received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree.
2017: Liberty University Debate Team Achieves Unprecedented Sweep of National Debate Tournaments
In 2017, Liberty University's debate team accomplished an unprecedented feat by topping the final rankings of all three national debate tournaments: the American Debate Association (ADA), the Cross Examination Debate Association (CEDA), and the National Debate Tournament (NDT). This remarkable achievement solidified their status as a dominant force in intercollegiate debate and made them the only school to achieve this triple victory in a single year. The team's consistent success in the CEDA, NDT, and ADA further highlights their dedication and exceptional skills in competitive debating.
2017: Students protest Trump's remarks on Charlottesville rally, alumni return diplomas
Some students at Liberty University protested in 2017 after President Trump's controversial remarks on the Charlottesville rally, where three people were killed, and 33 were injured. A number of alumni returned their diplomas to the university in protest, calling for a disavowal of Trump's statements, arguing they contradicted the university's values.
2017: Residential Acceptance Rate
In the fall of 2017, Liberty University's acceptance rate for new, first-time, full-time students entering its residential program stood at 30%.
2017: Donald Trump gives his first college commencement speech as president at Liberty University
In 2017, President Donald Trump delivered his first college commencement speech as sitting president at Liberty University.
2017: Former Champion Editor Will Young Exposes Alleged Thought Control at Liberty University
In 2017, Will Young, a former editor of Liberty University's student newspaper, the Champion, published a detailed account of his experiences in the Washington Post. He alleged that the university administration, under Jerry Falwell Jr.'s leadership, exercised excessive control over student editors and fostered an environment of "thought control" that permeated various aspects of university life, particularly after 2016. Young claimed he was reprimanded for seeking access to the campus police blotter and stated that administrative interference was a recurring issue. Some individuals he interviewed suspected the university installed spyware on student laptops to monitor their activities. This level of control led student journalists to establish an independent newspaper, the Lynchburg Torch, as a platform for stories the administration attempted to suppress.
2017: Liberty University Changes Curfew Policy
In 2017, Liberty University updated its curfew policy, granting students aged 20 and above the ability to sign out and stay off campus past the designated curfew time.
2017: Liberty University students rank sixth in receiving federal aid
In 2017, Liberty University students ranked sixth in receiving federal aid, according to a report by ProPublica and The New York Times.
2017: Ray Rice Lecture on Domestic Violence
In 2017, Liberty University invited Ray Rice, a former NFL player who had been videotaped assaulting his fiancée three years prior, to deliver a lecture on domestic violence. This decision sparked controversy due to Rice's past actions.
2017: Center for Law and Government
In 2017, Liberty University announced the establishment of the Center for Law and Government, to be headed by former U.S. Representative Robert Hurt. The center would house both the Liberty University School of Law and the Jesse Helms School of Government.
2017: Liberty Acquires CAER Facility
In 2017, Liberty University acquired The Center for Advanced Engineering and Research (CAER) facility in Bedford, Virginia, expanding its engineering capabilities.
2017: Growth of Liberty's Endowment and Assets
By 2017, Liberty University's endowment was over $1 billion and its gross assets exceeded $2 billion.
2017: Indoor Practice Facility Opens
An indoor practice facility was opened in 2017 at a cost of $29 million for the Liberty Flames football team.
February 2018: Freedom Tower Completed
February 2018 marked the completion of the Freedom Tower at Liberty University. This 17-story, 245-foot structure became the tallest building in Lynchburg, housing a 25-bell carillon that included a replica of the Liberty Bell. The tower stands as a prominent architectural landmark on the university's campus.
March 2018: Liberty Natatorium's First Competitive Event
The Liberty Natatorium hosted its first competitive swimming event, the 2018 TYR Junior National Cup, in March 2018.
October 2018: Liberty's Zaki Gordon Cinematic Arts Center co-produces "The Trump Prophecy" film
Liberty University's Zaki Gordon Cinematic Arts Center co-produced "The Trump Prophecy" which premiered in cinemas in October 2018.
2018: Liberty University Rejects Student Government Resolution for Relaxed Off-Campus Rules
Liberty University's administration rejected a proposal from the student government in 2018 that aimed to ease restrictions on off-campus activities. The proposed resolution would have permitted students to consume alcohol, use tobacco, and engage in "profane language" off-campus. This rejection signaled a continued emphasis on maintaining certain behavioral standards even outside the university's direct jurisdiction.
2018: Two student editors fired for allegedly running articles critical of Trump
Two student editors at Liberty University's student newspaper were reportedly fired in 2018 for publishing articles that were critical of Donald Trump, with one of the editors losing a \$3,000-per-semester scholarship.
2018: Liberty students show support for Trump's Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh
Students from Liberty University traveled to Washington, D.C. in 2018 to demonstrate their support for President Trump's Supreme Court nominee, Judge Brett Kavanaugh.
2018: Liberty University Football Team Begins Competing in the FBS as an Independent
Starting in 2018, Liberty University's football team embarked on a new chapter by entering the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) as an independent competitor, signifying a move to a more prominent stage in college football.
2018: On-Campus Shooting Range Opens
Liberty University opened a $3.2 million on-campus shooting range in 2018 to train students in self-defense against shooters and terrorists.
2018: The New York Times Reports on Concerns Regarding Liberty University Online Program's Quality
In 2018, The New York Times reported that Liberty faculty acknowledge that courses taken via the lucrative Liberty University Online program are worse than the university's traditional in-person classes.
2018: The New York Times Reports on Liberty University's Revenue Sources
In 2018, The New York Times published a report revealing that the majority of Liberty University's revenue originates from taxpayer-funded sources.
2018: ProPublica and The New York Times report on Liberty University's funding and recruitment practices
In 2018, ProPublica and The New York Times reported on Liberty University's revenue sources and recruitment practices, highlighting the university's reliance on federal aid and aggressive recruitment tactics.
2018: High Employment Rate for Law Graduates
In 2018, Liberty University School of Law reported that 82% of its graduating class secured full-time, bar passage, or JD-required employment within nine months of graduation.
2018: Jimmy Carter gives the commencement speech at Liberty University
Former U.S. president Jimmy Carter delivered the commencement speech at Liberty University in 2018.
2018: High Undergraduate Enrollment
According to U.S. News, Liberty University was among the top ten colleges with the highest undergraduate enrollment in the fall of 2018, demonstrating its significant student population.
2018: Liberty University Football Player Remains on Team Despite Accusations
A preliminary report by the U.S. Department of Education in 2023 alleged that, from 2018 to 2022, Liberty University allowed a football player to remain on the team despite multiple accusations of rape and stalking a university employee. This revelation was part of a wider investigation into the university's alleged cover-up of campus crime and safety statistics.
2018: Accreditation and Residency Program Launch
In 2018, the college of osteopathic medicine achieved initial accreditation from the American Osteopathic Association Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (AOA-COCA) and initiated its first residency program, specializing in neuromusculoskeletal treatment.
February 2019: Virginia Bar Exam Success
In February 2019, all graduates of Liberty University School of Law who took the Virginia Bar Exam achieved a 100% passing rate.
November 2019: Liberty University Launches Falkirk Center for Faith and Liberty
In November 2019, Liberty University and Charlie Kirk of Turning Point USA launched the Falkirk Center for Faith and Liberty, a think tank subsidiary. The name is derived, in part, from a combination of Jerry Falwell Jr. and Charlie Kirk's names, as well as Falwell's admiration for the film Braveheart and the Battle of Falkirk, which the film depicts. The think tank hired Trump attorney Jenna Ellis and Trump surrogate Sebastian Gorka as fellows.
2019: Reports emerge of Liberty CIO allegedly rigging online polls for Trump
In 2019, The Wall Street Journal and Inside Higher Education reported that Liberty University's CIO, John Gauger, allegedly received payments to manipulate two online polls in favor of Donald Trump before his candidacy through his personal IT consulting firm, separate from the university.
2019: Jerry Falwell Jr. Faces Accusations of Financial Misconduct
Jerry Falwell Jr. was accused of using the university for his family's financial gain in 2019. Staff members alleged that the university had channeled tuition money into real estate investments benefiting friends and family of the Falwells, including a shopping mall owned by the university and managed by Falwell's son Trey, a university vice president. Falwell countered the accusations by asserting that the FBI would investigate a "criminal conspiracy" in which individuals stole university property and shared it with reporters to harm his reputation.
2019: Criticism of Liberty University's Culture
Will E. Young, a former editor at Liberty's Champion student newspaper, criticized the "culture of fear" at Liberty University in 2019, arguing that the school had become intolerant of new ideas.
2019: Vice President Mike Pence gives Liberty University's commencement address
Vice President Mike Pence gave the commencement address at Liberty University in 2019.
2019: Liberty University Football Team Wins First Bowl Game: The Cure Bowl
In 2019, Liberty University's football team celebrated a historic achievement by securing their first-ever bowl game victory at the Cure Bowl. This win signified a breakthrough moment for the program and highlighted their growing competitiveness on the national stage.
2019: New Building for School of Business
In 2019, construction was nearing completion on a new 78,000-square-foot building for the Liberty University School of Business.
2019: Liberty University Men's Basketball Team Achieves Historic Success
In 2019, Liberty University's men's basketball team won the ASUN basketball tournament, earning them an automatic bid to the NCAA basketball tournament. They achieved their highest ranking ever as the No. 12 seed in the East Region. Liberty set a school record with their 29th win by upsetting Mississippi State 80-76 in the first round of the East Region.
2019: FIRE ranks Liberty University poorly for free speech due to censorship
In 2019, Liberty University was ranked among the worst universities for free speech by the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education (FIRE), citing censorship concerns and other factors.
2019: Liberty University receives \$700 million in federal funding
In 2019, Liberty University reportedly received approximately \$700 million in federal funding.
2019: Decline in Black Student Population and Graduation Rate
By 2019, Liberty University experienced a decline in its Black student population, which dropped to 10.4%. Furthermore, the Black graduation rate was reported to be 17%.
August 7, 2020: Falwell Jr. Placed on Leave
Jerry Falwell Jr. was placed on indefinite leave on August 7, 2020, following allegations of personal and professional misconduct.
August 24, 2020: Falwell Jr.'s Resignation
Jerry Falwell Jr. resigned from his position at Liberty University on August 24, 2020, after facing allegations of nepotism, racism, alcohol use, and involvement in sex scandals.
November 2020: Bob Good Elected to US House
Liberty University graduate Bob Good was elected to the US House of Representatives in November 2020, becoming the first Liberty alumnus in the House.
2020: Dean of the School of Behavioral Sciences
Kenyon C. Knapp served as the Dean of the School of Behavioral Sciences in 2020.
2020: Reform Efforts at Liberty
Three reform efforts emerged at Liberty in late 2020: the Save71 alumni group advocating for reform, a Black Lives Matter protest organized by athletes, and a student petition to shut down the Falkirk Center think tank.
2020: Liberty Arena Opens
The Liberty Arena, a $65 million, 125,000-square-foot space, opened in 2020, serving as the home for the men's and women's basketball teams and the women's volleyball team.
2020: Liberty University Football Team Wins Second Consecutive Cure Bowl
Building on their previous success, Liberty University's football team achieved another significant milestone in 2020 by winning their second consecutive Cure Bowl. This back-to-back victory solidified their presence as a rising force in college football and showcased their ability to compete at a high level.
2020: Liberty University's Revenue Sources are Detailed
In fiscal year 2020, Liberty University received $800 million from online tuition and $361 million from residential student tuition. According to Third Way, Liberty allocates less than 20 percent of its revenues for instruction.
2020: Diving Platform Collapse and Timing System Issues
In 2020, the Liberty Natatorium experienced two issues: a diving platform collapsed, and problems with the Daktronics race-timing system necessitated its replacement after only three years.
2020: Liberty University Enrollment
In 2020, Liberty University had an enrollment of about 15,000 students in its residential program and 80,000 online.
2020: Liberty's Controversial Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic in spring 2020, Liberty University allowed some students back on campus despite objections from local officials and contrary to common practices among universities. When journalists investigated this decision, the university pressed for trespassing charges against them.
2020: Falkirk Center for Faith and Liberty Engages in Political Advertising
During the 2020 election campaign, the Falkirk Center for Faith and Liberty paid for political Facebook ads promoting Trump and other Republican candidates.
2020: Criticism and Changes at Liberty
After Falwell Jr.'s resignation, Liberty University faced criticism for resistance to diversity. The university also saw the departure of key figures like Allen McFarland and David Nasser. Jonathan Falwell replaced Nasser.
2020: Liberty University Football Team Achieves First-Ever AP Poll Ranking
In a historic moment for the program, Liberty University's football team earned its first-ever ranking in the Associated Press (AP) Poll, coming in at number 25. This milestone reflects the team's rising stature in college football and marked a significant achievement in its development. They concluded the season with impressive rankings in both the AP Poll (17th) and the Coaches Poll (18th), establishing their presence as a force to be reckoned with in the sport.
March 2021: Falkirk Center for Faith and Liberty is Renamed to Standing for Freedom Center
The university renamed the Falkirk Center for Faith and Liberty to the "Standing for Freedom Center" in March 2021, after choosing not to renew Charlie Kirk's contract several months earlier.
April 2021: Liberty University Sues Falwell Jr. and Replaces Board Chair
In April 2021, Liberty University sued former president Jerry Falwell Jr. for $40 million in damages, alleging breach of contract and violation of fiduciary duty. Additionally, the university's board of trustees replaced acting chairman Allen McFarland, the first African American board chair, with Tim Lee, described as a "pro-Trump pastor."
June 2021: Liberty University Reports Strong Financial Standing
In June 2021, Liberty University reported $3.94 billion in assets, $474 million in liabilities, $1.15 billion in operating revenue, $840 million in operating expenses, and a $1.71 billion endowment for the fiscal year 2021.
July 2021: Twelve Anonymous Women Sue Liberty University for Creating an Environment Prone to Sexual Assault
July 2021 saw Liberty University facing a lawsuit from 12 anonymous women, including two employees, alleging the university fostered an environment that increased the likelihood of sexual assault and rape, violating federal Title IX law. The lawsuit claimed the university's honor code hindered reporting of sexual violence, that the university had an unspoken policy condoning sexual violence, and that the school retaliated against women who reported sexual violence.
July 2021: Diversity Retention Officer Sues Liberty University for Discrimination
In July 2021, LeeQuan McLaurin, a black gay man and Liberty University's diversity retention officer, filed a discrimination lawsuit against the school. He claimed that his supervisor's belief that Christianity condemns homosexuality created a hostile work environment and forced him to resign.
October 2021: ProPublica Investigation Reveals Liberty University Discouraged and Dismissed Students Reporting Sexual Assault
In October 2021, a ProPublica investigative report revealed that Liberty University had a pattern of discouraging and dismissing students who came forward with allegations of sexual assault. The report detailed accounts of former students being threatened with punishment for reporting sexual assault, school officials manipulating statements to undermine victims, and the university neglecting to report cases to the Title IX office or law enforcement.
November 2021: Standing for Freedom Center Hosts Prominent Figures
The Standing for Freedom Center hosted former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, author Eric Metaxas, and former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee in November 2021.
2021: COVID-19 Outbreak Forces Liberty University to Move Classes Online
In the fall of 2021, a COVID-19 outbreak on the Lynchburg campus of Liberty University forced all classes online for two weeks. The outbreak, which resulted in over 400 students and 50 staff members testing positive for the virus, occurred at a time when the university did not require COVID-19 vaccinations, masks, or social distancing, and outdoor events continued as scheduled.
2021: USA Today Identifies Keith Anderson as Staff Member Accused of Harassment
In November 2023, a USA Today article, based on the U.S. Department of Education report, a 2021 lawsuit, and student and employee accounts, identified Keith Anderson as the staff member accused of harassing subordinates. Anderson, who served as dean of students from 2007 until 2014 when he became director of student health records, was linked to multiple accusations of sexual assault, stalking, and other misconduct, prompting scrutiny of Liberty University's handling of such allegations.
2021: Class Action Lawsuit Filed Against Liberty University for Alleged Discriminatory Practices Against LGBT Students
In 2021, a former Liberty University student joined a class-action lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Education. The suit claimed that Liberty University should be ineligible for federal funding due to its discriminatory practices against LGBT students.
2021: Liberty University Updates "The Liberty Way" Handbook with Restrictions on LGBT Expressions and Relationships
In 2021, Liberty University revised its student handbook, "The Liberty Way," to explicitly prohibit any words or actions that suggest "LGBT states of mind." This included restricting sexual relations to only those within a biblically defined marriage between a man and a woman. The handbook stated that any form of same-sex intimacy is against biblical teachings and therefore banned by the university. Additionally, displays of affection like kissing, holding hands, or dating someone of the same sex were also prohibited.
2021: Interim President Jerry Prevo aims to increase Liberty University's political influence
In 2021, Interim President Jerry Prevo expressed his desire to transform Liberty University into a more influential political force, aiming to help elect conservative candidates. This sparked controversy due to the university's status as a 501(c)(3) charity, which prohibits direct involvement in political campaigns.
2021: Lawsuits and Investigation on Sexual Assault Handling
During 2021, Liberty University faced legal action from a dozen anonymous women alleging the university's failure to effectively address domestic violence and sexual assault on campus. A separate ProPublica investigation revealed that the institution's emphasis on sexual purity, as outlined in the Liberty Way code of conduct, contributed to the discouragement, dismissal, and even blaming of female students who attempted to report sexual assault.
2021: Residential Student Body Demographics
As of 2021, Liberty University's residential student body composition was as follows: 74% White, 5% Latino, 4% Black, 3% two or more races, 2% Asian or Pacific Islander, less than 1% Native American, and 7% categorized as "other." Additionally, the male-to-female ratio was 45% to 54%, providing insights into the demographic makeup of the university's residential student community.
2021: Liberty University Football Team Wins Third Straight Bowl Game: The LendingTree Bowl
Liberty University's football team extended their winning streak in bowl games in 2021 by claiming victory at the LendingTree Bowl. This third consecutive bowl win demonstrated their continued excellence and ability to perform well in high-pressure situations.
2022: Washington Monthly Ranking
In 2022, Liberty University was ranked 428th out of 442 schools by the Washington Monthly college rankings.
2022: School of Education Enrollment
In 2022, Liberty University's School of Education had an enrollment of 4,441 students, indicating a significant number of individuals pursuing education-related degrees.
2022: Liberty University Football Player Remains on Team Despite Accusations
A preliminary report by the U.S. Department of Education in 2023 alleged that, from 2018 to 2022, Liberty University allowed a football player to remain on the team despite multiple accusations of rape and stalking a university employee. This revelation was part of a wider investigation into the university's alleged cover-up of campus crime and safety statistics.
2022: Jamey Chadwell Becomes Head Coach of Liberty University Football Team
In 2022, Jamey Chadwell took the helm as the head coach of Liberty University's football team, marking a new chapter for the program and bringing in a fresh perspective to guide the team forward.
2022: Liberty University has not rescinded the two honorary degrees granted to Trump
As of 2022, Liberty University has not rescinded the two honorary degrees awarded to Donald Trump, despite other institutions revoking honorary degrees given to him.
July 1, 2023: Dondi E. Costin Becomes President
Dondi E. Costin assumed the role of Liberty University's president on July 1, 2023, succeeding Jerry Prevo.
November 2023: USA Today Identifies Keith Anderson as Staff Member Accused of Harassment
In November 2023, a USA Today article, based on the U.S. Department of Education report, a 2021 lawsuit, and student and employee accounts, identified Keith Anderson as the staff member accused of harassing subordinates. Anderson, who served as dean of students from 2007 until 2014 when he became director of student health records, was linked to multiple accusations of sexual assault, stalking, and other misconduct, prompting scrutiny of Liberty University's handling of such allegations.
2023: Liberty University Joins Conference USA
Liberty University's athletics program joined Conference USA as a full member in 2023.
2023: Shift in Conservative College Ranking
While previously ranked as the "Most Conservative College in America" by niche.com, Liberty University was replaced by Brigham Young University in 2023.
2023: Concealment of Crime Statistics
A 2023 preliminary report by the U.S. Department of Education, as reviewed by the Washington Post, alleged that Liberty University had engaged in efforts to conceal campus crime and safety statistics for an extended period. The report, whose findings were subject to appeal by the school, detailed potential violations of the Clery Act, a federal law mandating the disclosure of crime and safety data by institutions receiving federal funding. According to the report, university officials allegedly destroyed documentation and failed to inform the campus community about sexual predators, bomb threats, and gas leaks.
2023: U.S. News & World Report Ranking
Liberty University earned a ranking of #394-435 in the 2023 U.S. News & World Report's list of "National Universities," highlighting its academic standing.
2023: U.S. Department of Education Preliminary Report Alleges Liberty University Covered Up Crime and Safety Statistics
In the fall of 2023, a preliminary report by the U.S. Department of Education alleged that Liberty University officials had engaged in a pattern of covering up campus crime and safety statistics dating back to 1992, including incidents of sexual assault, stalking, and intimate partner violence. The report also detailed allegations of destroying evidence, retaliating against employees who raised concerns, and failing to comply with the Clery Act.
2023: Liberty University Football Team Makes History with Undefeated Regular Season and CUSA Championship Win
In a historic achievement for the program and the state of Virginia, Liberty University's football team completed an undefeated (12-0) regular season in 2023. This marked the first time a Division I team from Virginia had achieved this feat, solidifying their dominance in the season. They capped off this remarkable run by winning the Conference USA (CUSA) Championship Game, further cementing their status as champions.
2023: Law School Ranking
In 2023, Liberty University School of Law was ranked 147-192 out of 196 law schools by U.S. News & World Report in its annual law school rankings.
2023: Large Endowment
By 2023, Liberty University had amassed an endowment of $1.71 billion, making it the 43rd largest endowment among universities in the United States.
March 2024: Liberty University Fined $14 Million for Clery Act Violations
In March 2024, Liberty University was fined $14 million for violating the Clery Act, a federal law requiring institutions to disclose campus crime statistics. A 105-page report from investigators documented extensive and systematic violations, including discouraging students from reporting crimes, inadequately responding to sexual violence, and failing to maintain accurate crime records. The fine marked a significant consequence for the university's failure to uphold campus safety and transparency.
March 2024: Department of Education Fine
In March 2024, the U.S. Department of Education imposed a $14 million fine on Liberty University for its mishandling of sexual assault survivors and the misclassification or underreporting of crimes. Victims were reportedly deterred from reporting incidents out of fear of reprisal, and some faced punishment from administrators for violating the student code.
2024: Liberty University Football Team Competes in First NY6 Bowl Game: The Vrbo Fiesta Bowl
On January 1, 2024, Liberty University's football team participated in their first-ever New Year's Six (NY6) bowl game, facing off against the Pac-12's Oregon Ducks in the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl. While they lost the game with a score of 45-6, their appearance in such a prestigious bowl game reflects their significant ascent in college football and serves as a testament to their program's growth and success.
2026: Liberty University's sponsorship deal with William Byron to continue until 2026
Liberty University's sponsorship deal with NASCAR driver William Byron and Hendrick Motorsports is set to continue through 2026.