Jarvis Christian College  was founded in 1912 on 456 acres of then swampy land donated by Major J.J. and Mrs. Ida Van Zandt Jarvis, early philanthropists for whom the school was named.  However, the dream of Jarvis Christian College began in 1904.  As with many early African-American  Colleges, Jarvis was founded by the Church.  It is affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The Black Disciples of Christ and Christian Women's Board of Missions began to plan for a school for Black youth.  Financial goals were set.  The Black Disciples of Christ in Texas were to raise $1,000 for a school and the Christian Women's Board of Missions would contribute $10,000.

With these two groups spearheading and accomplishing the challenges, Jarvis opened its doors as an elementary school in 1912.  It evolved into a high school in 1914, a junior college in 1928, and then a four-year college of higher education in 1937.  Thomas B. Frost, the first school superintendent, and Charles A. Berry, Sr., Grounds Supervisor, have been credited as the founding fathers of Jarvis.  They overcame the insurmountable tasks of clearing the grounds and erecting buildings to start what was then called Jarvis Christian Institute.

Today, Jarvis has developed into a fully accredited four-year independent college of liberal arts and sciences.  The total campus property now covers over one thousand acres.  It is the only institution of higher education in Wood County.

The private, co-educational institution has maintained a tradition of high academic expectations and achievements in an intense environment that guarantees personalized education for all of its students.  Though it is characterized as a historically black college, the student population today is diversely multi-cultural.

The tenth and current president of Jarvis Christian College, Dr. Sebetha Jenkins, stated that "Jarvis Christian College has a history of excellence.  This excellence is exhibited in its academic programs, the success of its graduates, the quality of its faculty and staff, and its collegial student body.  Clearly there is continuous growth as alumni and friends embrace the College, as students and faculty interact academically, and as others join us in our continued efforts to provide wholesome academic experiences."

The opportunity for education in an environment that provides nurturing and assistance has been a mainstay of the Jarvis experience.  Throughout its history, Jarvis set demanding expectations that have been manifested within a climate of genuine understanding of the diverse educational backgrounds and career goals of the students.  These expectations, coupled with concern, are the basis of the personalized education found at Jarvis.

Many Jarvis graduates have pursued advanced degrees and are successful in their professions.  Jarvis Christian College graduates are located all over the United States and are active supporters of their alma mater.

"The College with a Personal Touch - Where Dreams Come True"

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