National Register designation recognizes the historic campus of the nation's oldest private HBCU owned and operated by African Americans and strengthens opportunities for preservation, education, and heritage tourism.

WILBERFORCE, OHIO— Wilberforce University is proud to announce that its Historic District has been officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the nation's official list of historic properties worthy of preservation. The designation, effective April 27, 2026, recognizes the University's extraordinary historical, educational, architectural, and cultural significance to the State of Ohio and the nation.

Founded in 1856, Wilberforce University holds the distinction of being the nation's oldest private historically Black college and university (HBCU) owned and operated by African Americans. Throughout its 170-year history, the University has educated generations of leaders who have made lasting contributions to education, ministry, public service, business, science, the military, and the arts.

The National Register designation affirms the enduring importance of the University's historic campus and recognizes the integrity and significance of its buildings, landscapes, and institutional heritage. The listing also enhances opportunities for historic preservation, research, heritage tourism, educational partnerships, and future preservation funding.

The nomination was completed as part of the University's compliance with its 2023 HBCU Historic Preservation Grant, awarded by the National Park Service through its Historic Preservation Fund. The grant supports the preservation and rehabilitation of historically significant campus buildings while helping ensure that the University's architectural and cultural legacy is protected for future generations. As a condition of the grant, Wilberforce University completed the extensive research, documentation, and nomination process required for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, culminating in this nationally significant achievement.

"This designation represents far more than the preservation of historic buildings," said Dr. Vann R. Newkirk, Sr., President of Wilberforce University. "It honors the remarkable legacy of generations who believed that education could transform lives and advance freedom. Wilberforce has long stood as a beacon of faith, scholarship, resilience, and leadership. We are grateful that this national recognition affirms our place in American history while inspiring us to continue preparing future generations of servant leaders."

Dr. Kenneth E. Jones, Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff, noted that the designation reflects years of careful planning and collaboration.

"Recognition on the National Register of Historic Places strengthens our ability to preserve the University's remarkable heritage while positioning us for future opportunities in preservation, partnerships, philanthropy, and community engagement," Jones said. "It is an investment in our past that will benefit future generations of students, scholars, and the communities we serve." Dr. Jones serves as the Principal Investigator on the Historic Preservation Grant.

The University also expressed appreciation to the many individuals and organizations whose expertise and dedication made the designation possible. Special recognition is extended to preservation architect Craig E. Dillon and Craig Dillon Architects, whose extensive historical research, documentation, and preparation of the nomination were instrumental in securing the listing. The University also acknowledges the guidance and support provided by the National Park Service, the Ohio State Historic Preservation Office, and other preservation partners throughout the nomination and review process.

The National Register listing complements Wilberforce University's ongoing historic preservation initiatives, including the rehabilitation of several historic campus buildings funded through the 2023 HBCU Historic Preservation Grant. Together, these efforts seek to preserve the University's historic character while modernizing facilities to support teaching, learning, research, and student success.

As Wilberforce University looks toward its future, the National Register designation stands as both a recognition of an extraordinary legacy and a reaffirmation of the institution's enduring mission to educate students who lead lives of purpose, service, and excellence. It also underscores the University's commitment to preserving a campus whose history reflects the resilience, aspirations, and achievements of generations of African Americans and all who have contributed to its distinguished legacy.

For more information about Wilberforce University, visitwilberforce.edu.