DePauw University

DePauw University is a private liberal arts institution that provides undergraduate education leading to Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees across a range of disciplines including the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and fine arts. The university also offers select graduate programs and continuing education opportunities designed to support professional development and lifelong learning. Its academic mission emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary study, and experiential learning, preparing students for diverse careers and civic engagement. Located in Greencastle, Indiana, the campus serves as a residential community where faculty and students engage in classroom instruction, research projects, and extracurricular activities that reinforce the liberal arts tradition.

Distinguishing attributes of DePauw include its affiliation with the United Methodist Church, which informs its values‑based approach to education and community service, and its historic founding in 1837, making it one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the state. The university is noted for a strong emphasis on undergraduate research, with many students collaborating with faculty on scholarly projects that are presented at regional and national conferences. DePauw’s campus features a blend of historic architecture and modern facilities, including the DePauw Nature Park, which provides outdoor laboratories for environmental studies and recreation. The institution also maintains a vibrant arts scene, supporting ensembles, theater productions, and visual arts exhibitions that enrich cultural life for both the campus and surrounding area.

Structurally, DePauw operates as a nonprofit corporation governed by a board of trustees responsible for fiduciary oversight and strategic direction. The university’s leadership includes a president who reports to the board and oversees academic, administrative, and operational functions. In October 2023, DePauw experienced a cybersecurity incident that disrupted network services, affecting internet access, online learning platforms, email, and campus printers while classes continued; the institution engaged forensic experts to restore systems and investigate the breach, underscoring its commitment to protecting sensitive data amid a broader rise in ransomware threats. This event highlights the university’s ongoing efforts to balance technological advancement with robust security measures.