History
The youngest comprehensive university in the Commonwealth, Christopher Newport University was founded in 1960 as a two-year branch of the College of William and Mary. The University became independent in 1977 and gained university status in 1992.

Today, CNU combines a traditional liberal arts and sciences curriculum with contemporary teaching ideologies and an emphasis on growing leaders of the future.

1960
Established and authorized by the Virginia General Assembly as a two-year branch of the College of William & Mary.

1961
First opens its doors at initial home (171 students enrolled), a former public school building in downtown Newport News generously provided by the City of Newport News and its school board.

1963
75-acre tract of land on north side of Shoe Lane purchased by the City of Newport News and given to the Commonwealth of Virginia for site of current campus.

1964
First building (Lewis Archer McMurran, Jr., Hall) is constructed on the site of current campus.

1971
Becomes a four-year baccalaureate, degree-granting institution.

1977
Gains independence from the College of William & Mary.

1991
Begins offering graduate programs.

1992
Becomes Christopher Newport University.

1996
U.S. Senator from Virginia, Paul S. Trible Jr., inducted as university president.

1999
CNU named #2 among regional public liberal arts colleges in the South by U.S.News & World Report’s “America’s Best Colleges.”

2001
Establishes NCAA Division III football.

2002
Construction begins on the Ferguson Center for the Fine & Performing Arts.

2005
$400 million building campaign nears completion. Dazzling new facilities include a state-of-the-art residence hall; the stunning Ferguson Center for the Arts; and our $16 million athletics facility, The Freeman Center.

2008
New Paul and Rosemary Trible Library opens. CNU Establishes New College - The Joseph W. Luter III College of Business and Leadership.