History of Southwestern College (Kansas) in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 17, 2025

Southwestern College, located in Winfield, Kansas, is a private Methodist institution founded in 1885. Originally named Southwest Kansas Conference College, it held its first graduation in 1889. The college adopted its current name in 1909. It is a liberal arts college offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

1902: Joined Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference

In 1902, Southwestern College joined the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) for a stint.

1909: Name changed to Southwestern College

In 1909 the institution previously known as Southwest Kansas Conference College officially adopted the name Southwestern College.

1910: Nickname Moundbuilders originated

In 1910, Southwestern College students adopted the nickname "Moundbuilders," moving away from "Preachers" or "Methodists." The name was chosen after considering suggestions based on the school's location on "the hill," with the term "Moundbuilders" emphasizing action and construction.

1917: Order of the Mound formally organized

In 1917, the Order of the Mound was formally organized as the official Honor Society for Southwestern College graduates, though membership includes graduates dating back to 1889.

1922: Left Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference

In 1922, Southwestern College left the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC).

1923: Joined Central Intercollegiate Athletic Conference

In 1923, Southwestern College joined the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (CIC).

1927: Moundbuilding ceremony instituted

In 1927, Dean Leroy Allen instituted the Moundbuilding ceremony at Southwestern College. He emphasized that only Moundbuilders could build mounds, establishing a unique college custom.

1927: Process established to induct graduates prior to 1917

In 1927, a process was established to induct qualified graduates from years prior to 1917 into the Order of the Mound, ensuring comprehensive recognition of alumni achievements.

1957: Left Central Intercollegiate Athletic Conference

In 1957, Southwestern College left the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (CIC).

1958: Joined Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference

In 1958, Southwestern College joined the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC), marking their return after a previous stint.

1960: Conference championships since 1960

Since 1960, Southwestern College has won 134 conference championships in nine different sports, showcasing a legacy of athletic success.

1980: All-American scholar-athletes since 1980

Since 1980, Southwestern College has produced over 160 All-American scholar-athletes, recognizing outstanding achievements in both academics and athletics.

2006: Major renovation of the Mound

In 2006, the Mound at Southwestern College underwent a major renovation, which included the addition of a plaza area featuring commemorative stones, benches, and landscaping to enhance the space.