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Warren Wilson College was founded by Presbyterians in 1894 as a mission school for uplifting the isolated Appalachian people through education. Since its founding, the College has maintained a relationship with the Presbyterian Church (USA). The roots of this historic relationship continue to nurture the College's commitment to community, social responsibility, the value of work, and openness in the pursuit of truth. In the Presbyterian spirit of ecumenicalism, the College welcomes relationship with other communities and individuals whose faith leads them to participate in the mission of the College.

One of 62 members of the Association of Presbyterian Colleges and Universities, Warren Wilson College believes that scholarship and faith can enhance each other, when engaged in a mutually respectful and symbiotic relationship. The opportunity to study liberal arts in a context of religious affiliation provides a broader, richer educational experience, helping learning relate to issues of faith and life, and encouraging students to consider their future as a pursuit of a calling and purpose in service of the common good.

The Role of Church Relations

The Office of Church Relations was established by President Reuben A. Holden following the official separation of the College from the Presbyterian Board of National Missions in 1973. Its mission is to establish, enhance and sustain cordial and mutually supportive relationships between Warren Wilson College and the Presbyterian Church (USA). The Director of Church Relations serves this mission with the assistance and guidance of the Church Relations Council, a volunteer board of pastors and laypeople.

The College has covenant partnerships with four presbyteries, Western North Carolina, Charlotte, New Hope and Salem, and receives faithful financial support from each. Warren Wilson College is an outreach partner with many churches through global missions and higher education ministry. Many churches and individuals have established annual and endowed scholarships to assist need-based students to afford their education.

The Warren Wilson Presbyterian Church and College Chapel provides students with opportunities for worship, study and service, encouraging the community to value moral and spiritual development. Its facilities are open for use by all spiritual life groups on campus. The Pastor of the Church also serves as College Chaplain. A full-time Director of Spiritual Life helps support and encourages faith and vocational exploration.

For additional information, please contact:

Julie Lehman
Director of Church Relations
CPO 6264
P.O. Box 9000
Asheville, NC 28815-9000

(828) 771-2038

jlehman@warren-wilson.edu