BLUFFTON — Bluffton College will return to being following the merger of Bluffton University and University of Findlay, the schools announced Saturday night.
The boards of trustees for Bluffton University and University of Findlay agreed to rename the Bluffton campus “Bluffton College” after completing the merger. It still requires approval from the Higher Learning Commission, U.S. Department of Education and Ohio Department of Education.
The campus in Bluffton had been known as Bluffton College from 1913 through 2004, when it became known as Bluffton University, according to the school’s history. The school originally founded as Central Mennonite College
“No matter if our beloved campus is a ‘college’ or ‘university,’ it will always be distinctively Bluffton,” said Dr. Jane Wood, president of Bluffton University, in a press release. “Returning to our previous name is another example of the commitment from Findlay to honor our history and heritage.”
The two institutions agreed to merge earlier this year while maintaining separate campuses, athletics and identities, announcing their plans in the spring. The University of Findlay will assume organizational control of the Bluffton campus.
In May 2025, the application for the first stage of the merger process will be sent to the Higher Learning Commission, which accredits both universities. Then, in December 2025, they would apply for federal approval, moving into the second phase of the merger process. Officials acknowledged last month the merger of the two schools, separated by just 17 miles, may take longer than originally planned.
“For 125 years, Bluffton has nurtured and educated students with care and commitment, discovery and community, respect and service,” Dr. Wood said. “Bluffton will continue to honor the legacy that’s been built while moving forward into a future of collaboration with University of Findlay.”
The University of Findlay was established in 1882 and has a 403-acre campus. It intends to remain affiliated with the Churches of God, General Conference. Pending NCAA approval, it would continue to participate in NCAA Division II as the Oilers. It currently offers 88 bachelor’s degrees, 11 master’s degrees and five doctoral-level degree programs, with an average annual enrollment of 3,500 students.
The University of Bluffton was founded in 1899 and has a 65-acre campus. It plans to remain affiliated with Mennonite Church USA. It would continue to participate in Division III athletics as the Beavers. Bluffton has more than 90 majors, minors and interdisciplinary programs, as well as five master’s degree programs, with an average annual enrollment of 700 students.
