History and Mission
History
Indiana University South Bend is the only public, bachelor’s and graduate degree granting institution in north central Indiana and southwestern Michigan. The first classes were held at Central High School in 1916. The campus moved to its current location along the St. Joseph River in 1961 with the completion of Northside Hall. Following steady growth over the last 40 years, the campus now consists of 12 buildings, including the Franklin D. Schurz Library and Wiekamp Hall. The most recent addition is the 100,000 square foot. Student Activities Center featuring basketball, volleyball, and racquetball courts, a walking track, a fitness and wellness center, a café, a student lounge, and student activity offices.
IU South Bend also owns 26 acres on the south bank of the St. Joseph River. A pedestrian bridge connects the main campus with the property which is now the site of student housing. The River Crossing Campus Apartments will open in August 2008 and accommodate 400 students.
In August 2007 construction was completed on the 25,000 square-foot IU South Bend Elkhart Center in downtown Elkhart, Indiana about 20 miles from South Bend. The university also offers classes in Plymouth.
As of January 1, 2008 the IU South Bend campus and all properties owned by the school are non-smoking areas.
Mission
Indiana University South Bend is the comprehensive undergraduate and graduate regional campus of Indiana University that is committed to serving north central Indiana and southwestern Michigan. Its mission is to create, disseminate, preserve, and apply knowledge. The campus is committed to excellence in teaching, learning, research, and creative activity; to strong liberal arts and sciences programs and professional disciplines; to acclaimed programs in the arts and nursing/health professions; and to diversity, civic engagement, and a global perspective. IU South Bend supports student learning, access and success for a diverse residential and non-residential student body that includes under-represented and international students. The campus fosters student-faculty collaboration in research and learning. Committed to the economic development of its region and state, Indiana University South Bend meets the changing educational and research needs of the community and serves as a vibrant cultural resource.
