130 Years of Grand View: Honoring Our Past, Celebrating Our Present and Looking to the Future
September 3, 2026
For 130 years, Grand View University has been a place where students discover their potential, build meaningful connections and prepare to make a difference in the world.
Founded in 1896 by members of the Danish Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Grand View began with a commitment to education, community and service. What started more than a century ago has grown and evolved through generations of students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends who have helped shape the Grand View experience.
Throughout its history, Grand View has adapted to meet the changing needs of its students and the world around it. The institution grew from its early roots to offer junior college courses in 1924, added baccalaureate programs in the 1970s and became Grand View University in 2008 as graduate programs were introduced.
While much has changed since 1896, the heart of Grand View remains familiar: a commitment to developing the whole person and preparing students for successful careers, responsible citizenship and lives of purpose.
Today, Grand View welcomes students from a wide range of backgrounds and offers undergraduate, graduate and online programs. Students continue to experience the close-knit community, dedicated faculty and opportunities for learning beyond the classroom that have long been part of the Grand View tradition.
Grand View's 130th anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the people and moments that have shaped the university while celebrating where Grand View is today.
Throughout the 2026–27 academic year, the university will recognize this milestone through events and activities that bring the Grand View community together. Homecoming will include opportunities to celebrate the university's 130-year legacy, including Grand Views 130: Then. Now. Next., an event focused on Grand View's history, present and future.
As we celebrate 130 years, we honor the generations who came before us, celebrate the Viking community we share today and look forward with excitement to the future.