By Sarah Nichols, Southwest Baptist University
A fully accredited university committed to quality education and grounded in Christian values, Southwest Baptist University is dedicated to helping students grow 
intellectually and spiritually and encourages students to integrate knowledge, character and faith into their everyday lives.
Southwest Baptist University has been educating students since 1878. Today, enrollment on the Bolivar campus and the three satellite campuses totals more than 3,400 in undergraduate and graduate programs. In 2005, the university opened its first doctoral program, offering a doctor of physical therapy.
The Jane and Ken Meyer Wellness and Sports Center, completed in December 2004, provides a state-of-the art wellness center for students, employees and the Bolivar community, as well as a renovated sports arena.
Students at SBU take advantage of numerous opportunities to serve God around the world. More than 150 students were involved in missions this summer. They went to places like Egypt, Thailand, Morocco, San Diego/Tijuana and Corsica.
Many other students were involved in Christian ministry this summer through organizations and churches outside SBU.
Currently, 12 intercultural studies majors are participating in a Semester Abroad program. This year's students are ministering in Ecuador, West Africa and India as well as the Pacific Rim countries of Taiwan, the Philippines and Indonesia.
This fall the Office of Student Life has sponsored numerous volunteer opportunities for students and employees, including a trip to assist with filming an episode of ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" and answering phones for the 2005 MDA Telethon held Labor Day weekend.
The university also has marshaled efforts to assist with relief for victims of Hurricane Katrina. Students collected donations, ran a benefit car wash, donated T-shirts, collected supplies for hygiene kits and helped box items for Convoy of Hope.
Ӣ The university has been listed as one of "America's 100 Best College Buys" for nine consecutive years and as one of "America's Best Christian Colleges" for eight straight years.
Ӣ In 2005, the SBU missions and ministries office is celebrating its 25th anniversary as the university's official missions and ministries program with special events and reflection upon SBU's history of supporting missions since it was founded in 1878.
Ӣ SBU was named one of the top 10 Christian Business Schools of 2005 by "Business Reform Magazine" in its September/October 2005 issue. The school placed in the Top 10 Business Faculty and Top 10 Best Job Placements. (10-19-05)
