History of Loma Linda University in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 13, 2025

Loma Linda University (LLU) is a private Seventh-day Adventist health sciences university located in Loma Linda, California. Comprising eight schools and a graduate faculty as of 2019, LLU is part of the Seventh-day Adventist education system. It is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. The university maintains a large on-campus church with approximately 7,000 members, reflecting its religious affiliation.

1905: Founding of Loma Linda Sanitarium

In 1905, John Burden and Ellen G. White, both Seventh-day Adventists, established what would become known as the Loma Linda Sanitarium, marking the beginning of Loma Linda University.

1905: Formation of the American Medical Association's Council on Medical Education

In 1905, the American Medical Association formed a national Council on Medical Education, which later influenced the development and accreditation of Loma Linda University's medical programs.

February 1906: Council Meeting at Loma Linda

In February 1906, a council consisting of faculty from Fernando Academy, the Loma Linda school, and the executive committee of the Southern California Conference convened at Loma Linda to discuss educational matters.

1906: Establishment of The Loma Linda College of Evangelists

In 1906, The Loma Linda College of Evangelists was established, marking a significant step in the development of Loma Linda University.

1909: Chartered as Medical College

In 1909, the school was chartered as a Medical College, marking a significant step in its development.

1910: Loma Linda College Listed in Yearbook

In 1910, the Seventh-day Adventist Yearbook listed the school as 'Loma Linda College' and added the legal title 'College of Medical Evangelists of Loma Linda' (CME).

January 27, 1913: Special Meeting on Accreditation Requirements

On January 27, 1913, a special meeting of the constituency of the College of Medical Evangelists was convened at Loma Linda to discuss accreditation requirements and the need for a medical hospital and dispensary.

September 29, 1913: Opening of the First Street Dispensary

On September 29, 1913, the College of Medical Evangelists opened the First Street Dispensary in Los Angeles to provide clinical experience and address accreditation requirements.

1913: Basic Sciences Taught in Loma Linda

From 1913, Loma Linda University taught basic sciences on its campus in Loma Linda. However, students were sent to Los Angeles for clinical experience due to the lack of adequate clinical facilities at Loma Linda Sanitarium.

November 16, 1922: College of Medical Evangelists Granted 'A' Rating

On November 16, 1922, the Council on Medical Education granted an 'A' rating to the College of Medical Evangelists, signifying its accreditation and high standards in medical education.

July 12, 1923: Concerns over Accreditation Dependence

On July 12, 1923, the Review and Herald presented concerns expressed by W.E. Howell regarding the potential consequences of Adventist schools overly depending on accreditation.

1961: Decision to Convert to University

In 1961, leaders voted to convert the institution to a university, marking a significant change in its structure and scope.

1962: Consolidation in Loma Linda

By 1962, all science and clinical faculties were consolidated within the city of Loma Linda, streamlining the university's operations.

1962: End of Clinical Experience in Los Angeles

In 1962, Loma Linda University ceased sending students to Los Angeles for clinical experience, likely due to the development of adequate clinical facilities in Loma Linda.

July 9, 1967: Opening of Loma Linda University Medical Center

On July 9, 1967, the Loma Linda University Medical Center opened with over 125 patients, representing a major expansion of the university's clinical facilities.

1967: Founding of the School of Public Health

In 1967, the Loma Linda University School of Public Health was founded. It is an accredited member of the Association of Schools of Public Health (ASPH).

1980: Designated Level I Trauma Center

In 1980, the state designated Loma Linda University the only Level I trauma center in San Bernardino, Riverside, Inyo, and Mono counties, highlighting its critical role in emergency medical care.

1990: End of Operation of Liberal Arts College in Riverside

In 1990, the university ceased operating the Seventh-day Adventist liberal arts college in Riverside, which is now known as La Sierra University.

1991: B. Lyn Behrens Becomes First Female President

In 1991, B. Lyn Behrens became the first female president of Loma Linda University, marking a significant milestone in the university's history.

1998: Start of Federal Funding

From 1998, Loma Linda University received substantial federal funding, becoming the top academic recipient in the country by 2003.

2000: Largest Recipient of Higher Education Grants

In 2000, Loma Linda University was the single largest recipient of higher education grants, receiving $36 million.

2003: End of high federal funding

Until 2003, Loma Linda University received $167.2 million in federal funds, being the number one academic recipient in the country.

March 2008: Richard Hart Succeeds B. Lyn Behrens as President

In March 2008, Richard Hart succeeded B. Lyn Behrens as president of Loma Linda University, after Behrens served as president since 1991.

2008: Loma Linda University Received DOD Funding

In 2008, Loma Linda University received nearly $9.5 million, including $5 million from the Department of Defense.

October 28, 2009: Opening of Centennial Complex

On October 28, 2009, Loma Linda University opened its new 150,000-square-foot Centennial Complex, which included new classrooms, amphitheaters, workstations, and simulation labs. The complex was expected to increase enrollment.

2010: Projected Enrollment Growth

By 2010, Loma Linda University projected to increase enrollment to 5,000 students after the Centennial Complex opened.

2012: Creation of the School of Behavioral Health

In 2012, the Loma Linda University School of Behavioral Health was created, expanding the university's academic offerings.

2018: University Ranking

In 2018, the Center for World University Rankings ranked Loma Linda University as the 994th best university in the world.

2019: LLU Comprises Eight Schools

In 2019, Loma Linda University comprised eight schools and a Faculty of Graduate Studies. The university is part of the Seventh-day Adventist education system and is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).