The SRU Compass
An in-depth exploration of Slippery Rock University's history, academic offerings, and vibrant campus life, presented for advanced study.
Discover SRU ๐ Explore Academics ๐Dive in with Flashcard Learning!
๐ฎ Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game๐ฎ
Historical Trajectory
Founding and Evolution
Established in 1889 as the Slippery Rock State Normal School, the institution initially focused on teacher training. Under the leadership of its first president, James E. Morrow, it laid the groundwork for future academic endeavors. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania acquired the school in 1926, paving the way for its expansion into a four-year institution.
Growth and Transformation
In 1960, it was designated Slippery Rock State College, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in liberal arts and professional fields. This period saw significant enrollment growth, escalating from 1,314 students in 1971 to over 8,000 by 2005. The university adopted its current formal name, Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania, on July 1, 1983, coinciding with the establishment of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE).
Campus Overview
Geographic Context
Slippery Rock University is situated in the northwestern region of Pennsylvania. The majority of its campus, including the designated census-designated place, resides within Slippery Rock Township, Butler County. A portion of the university's property extends into Slippery Rock Borough, reflecting its integration within the local community.
Scale and Environment
The university boasts a substantial rural campus spanning approximately 660 acres. This expansive setting provides a conducive environment for academic pursuits and student activities, offering ample space for facilities and natural landscapes.
Academic Landscape
Collegiate Structure
SRU offers a comprehensive range of academic programs through its five distinct colleges:
- College of Business
- College of Education
- College of Engineering and Science
- College of Health Professions
- College of Liberal Arts
The university provides over 150 undergraduate majors and approximately 40 graduate degree programs and certificates, ensuring diverse educational pathways.
Recognition and Quality
SRU is recognized for its academic rigor, with 51 programs holding national accreditations. A significant majority of its faculty (92%) possess terminal degrees, underscoring the high caliber of instruction. The university has consistently been acknowledged by prestigious publications, including rankings by U.S. News & World Report as one of the "Best Regional Universities - North" and "Top Public Schools โ Regional Universities (North)." Furthermore, The Princeton Review has featured SRU on its "Best Mid-Atlantic" list.
Leadership
Presidential Succession
The university has seen several distinguished leaders guide its trajectory. Cheryl Joy Norton served as the university's first female president from 2012 to 2017. William J. Behre held the presidential office from 2018 to 2022. Karen Riley assumed the presidency in 2023, continuing the legacy of leadership.
Athletic Endeavors
NCAA Division II Competition
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania actively participates in NCAA Division II athletics and is a proud member of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC). The university fields a variety of varsity sports for both men and women, fostering athletic excellence and teamwork.
Mascot and Traditions
The official mascot of Slippery Rock University is Rocky the Lion, embodying the spirit and pride of "The Rock." A unique tradition involves the announcement of Slippery Rock's football scores during University of Michigan Football games, a practice that began in 1959 and has become a notable part of college football lore.
Varsity and Club Sports
Men's Varsity Teams: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Soccer, Indoor Track & Field, Outdoor Track & Field.
Women's Varsity Teams: Basketball, Cross Country, Field Hockey, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Indoor Track & Field, Outdoor Track & Field, Volleyball.
The university also supports various club sports, including a historically successful women's water polo team and a men's rugby team that recently won a national championship. The men's ice hockey program was suspended indefinitely in 2020.
Student Experience
Recreation and Wellness
The Aebersold Student Recreation Center provides an 82,000-square-foot facility dedicated to student health and wellness. It offers a comprehensive range of amenities for physical activity and recreation, supporting the holistic development of the student body.
Campus Media
SRU fosters student engagement through its dedicated media outlets. These include the student newspaper, The Rocket; the university radio station, 88.1 WSRU-FM; and the literary magazine, SLAB. These platforms provide valuable experience for students and serve as key communication channels within the campus community.
Student Demographics
Fall 2023 Undergraduate Profile
As of Fall 2023, Slippery Rock University served a total enrollment of 8,362 students, comprising 6,815 undergraduates and 1,547 graduate students. The faculty comprises 496 full-time members, contributing to a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1.
| Race and ethnicity | Total | |
|---|---|---|
| White | 84% | |
| Hispanic | 4% | |
| International student | 3% | |
| Two or more races | 3% | |
| American Indian/Alaska Native | 1% | |
| Black | 1% | |
| Unknown | 1% | |
| Economic diversity | ||
| Low-incomea | 29% | |
| Affluentb | 71% | |
a Percentage of students receiving Pell grants.
b Percentage of students from middle-class backgrounds.
Notable Alumni
Distinguished Graduates
Slippery Rock University has produced a notable roster of alumni across various fields, including sports, arts, business, and public service. Their achievements reflect the diverse opportunities and robust education provided by the university.
- Sports: Matt Adams (baseball), Janet Anderson (golf), Myron Brown (basketball), Stanley Dziedzic (wrestler), Brandon Fusco (football), Wes Hills (football), Greg Hopkins (football), Matt Kinsinger (football), Greg Paterra (football), John Stuper (baseball), Lou Trivino (baseball), Royce Waltman (basketball coach).
- Arts & Media: Donnie Iris (musician), Todd Tamanend Clark (poet, composer).
- Business & Leadership: Cheryl Bailey (NWSL Commissioner), Francis V. Barnes (PA Secretary of Education), Richard Schweiker (politician), Robert J. Stevens (CEO of Lockheed Martin), Lawrence Reed (President of FEE).
- Public Service & Academia: Michael J. Estocin (Medal of Honor recipient), Gary L. Lancaster (U.S. District Judge), Alan Morrison (Politician), M. Richard Rose (University President).
- Coaching: Matthew Driscoll (basketball coach), Jodi Kest (basketball coach), Sarah Patterson (gymnastics coach), C. Vivian Stringer (basketball coach).
Teacher's Corner
Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio
Click here to open the "Slippery Rock University" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit
Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.
True or False?
Test Your Knowledge!
Gamer's Corner
Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?
Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!
Play now
References
References
- The percentage of students who received an income-based federal Pell grant intended for low-income students.
- The percentage of students who are a part of the American middle class at the bare minimum.
Feedback & Support
To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.
Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not professional academic advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for direct consultation with university admissions, academic advisors, or official university resources. Always refer to the official Slippery Rock University website and consult with qualified professionals for specific academic or career planning needs.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.