History and Tradition

In August 1871, the Northwestern Ohio Normal School officially opened its doors, with a central mission to train teachers in effective classroom instruction methods. Since that time, ONU has shaped some of the brightest scholars, scientists, philanthropists, businesspeople, health care professionals and performers – to name a few. Through wars, economic turmoil, social unrest and other unprecedented challenges, Northern has always remained Northern.

From Vision to Reality

Ohio Northern’s ambitious, pioneering attitude has been alive since the very beginning. The school started with a single person and a single idea. With the help of the community, Henry Solomon Lehr founded the Northwestern Ohio Normal School in 1871. When the college’s curriculum grew to include pharmacy, engineering, law and business programs, its name was changed to Ohio Normal University and, eventually, in 1903, Ohio Northern University.

Normal building was the first building on campus

There should be a school patterned to the needs of the common people, and it must recognize God in all its teachings."

Henry Solomon Lehr, founder Ohio Northern University

Gallery of Notable Figures

Read about the notable individuals who left a indelible mark on ONU–and the world–through their contributions and accomplishments over the course of ONU’s history.

Captain Arthur Dale Rothrock

1920 Olympian won a gold and silver medal

Clay Mathile

Philanthropist entrepreneur.

Michael Turner

Representing Ohio in Congress.

See more

History of ONU

From a small, regional teacher’s college to an esteemed institution of higher education, the evolution of Ohio Northern University has been marked by both success and struggle. Every milestone has played a role in making the University what it is today. We treasure our rich history and will continue writing the story of Ohio Northern to honor those who came before us.

1871 - First classes held at Northwestern Ohio Normal School with initial student enrollment of 147.

1874 - The first commencement ceremony takes place on June 12 at 9 a.m. for eleven graduating members (six males/five females).

1893 - ONU participates in the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, also known as the The Chicago World’s Fair. An exhibit was created by faculty member Mrs. Maglott. Students received a blue ribbon award and bronze medal.

1896 - Students created a University-based “athletic organization” (not sanctioned by the University), which promoted athletics, most notably including baseball and football.

1903 - Institution name changed to Ohio Northern University (from Ohio Normal University) in recognition of the university expanding beyond its original mission as a normal school.

1910 - President William Howard Taft delivered the 1910 commencement address.

1923 - The University establishes the Polar Bear as the official mascot.

Polar Bear established as mascot 1923 - reflected on cover of yearbook in 1925

1900s Post-WW II - May Day established as an ONU tradition.

1968 - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. speaks at ONU.

1973 - ONU signs a “Friendship Pact” with Dankook University (South Korea).

1991 - Freed Center for the Performing Arts, an indoor Sports Center/Fieldhouse constructed alongside King-Horn and the “Green Monster” track are finalized.

1993 - Men's Basketball team - they won it all!

Becoming Polar Bears

In 1923, the University established the Polar Bear as the school’s official mascot. Throughout the years, there have been several iterations of the mascot – who now goes by the name Klondike. Read the fun history of ONU’s mascot, written in 2023 when Klondike celebrated its 100th birthday.

Read about ONU’s mascot

Heart of an Ideal

“Heart of an Ideal” is a cinematic celebration of Ohio Northern University’s founding and its 150+ years of success in preparing students to positively impact the world. The film showcases how founder Henry Solomon Lehr established a clear vision and enduring values that have lived on at Ohio Northern. Defining moments in the life of ONU are chronicled, weaving the University’s story through presidential eras following Dr. Lehr’s, and presenting more than a century and a half of growth, trial, triumph and change. Included are interviews and footage not seen in nearly 50 years.