The Early Years
The University of Omaha, as it was named in its 1908 articles of incorporation, began classes in the fall of 1909 with an enrollment of 26 students. An extract from its charter includes the following: "The object of this corporation shall be to establish, endow, conduct and maintain a University for the promotion of sound learning and education, such as is usually contemplated in colleges and universities, under such influences as will lead to the highest type of Christian character and citizenship, with the Bible as supreme authority."
The University did not prescribe any religious tests for admission. However, catalog statements noted that the education system of the University was built on a moral and religious assumption that such an atmosphere was conducive to the development of the highest type of "manhood and womanhood." Students were encouraged to attend a daily convocation in the University chapel. Students were also urged to be active participants in one of two religious organizations: The Young Men's Christian Association, or the Young Women's Christian Association. Attendance and disciplinary standards for student conduct were identified in a catalog statement:
Three tardy marks count as one absence. No cuts are granted. Excuses for absences must be presented within one week of the absence. In case a student has too many absences, in the instructor's judgment, credit for the course may be lowered. Offenses against good order are handled by the instructor, but flagrant cases may be referred to the University Discipline Committee. Students are suspended or dismissed whenever, in the opinion of the Faculty, they are pursuing a course of conduct detrimental to themselves or the University.
Similar policies remained for many years following the establishment of the Municipal University of Omaha in 1932.