University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania was founded in 1740 when a group of prominent individuals in Philadelphia, including Benjamin Franklin, established a charity school. Originally intended as a charity school and intended as a place of study for young men who might want to enter the ministry, it evolved to become the Academy and Charitable School in 1751. Over the years, it transformed into the University of Pennsylvania, establishing itself as a leading educational institution in America.

On August 13, 1751, the Academy and Charitable School in the Province of Pennsylvania opened its doors to students. This institution marked the real beginning of what would become the University of Pennsylvania. The institution was inspired by the educational philosophy of Benjamin Franklin, who sought to create a school that would prepare young men for service in commerce, government, and public service. The Academy opened with an emphasis on practical education rather than classical studies alone.

The Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania was founded by John Morgan and William Shippen Jr. on September 23, 1765, making it the first medical school in what would become the United States of America. Morgan had recently returned from medical education in Europe, where he studied under some of the most prominent physicians of the day. The school was established to train physicians who would practice in the growing colonies, emphasizing a scientific approach to medicine.

The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania was founded on October 1, 1881. It was the first collegiate school of business, made possible through a donation by Joseph Wharton, an industrialist and philanthropist. Wharton envisioned a school that would produce leaders who understood the complexities of modern economies and managerial practices. This foundational vision laid the groundwork for Wharton to become a premier institution for business education globally, renowned for its innovative teaching methods and rigorous curriculum.

In June 1932, Otto Haas, co-founder of Rohm and Haas Company, made a substantial donation to the University of Pennsylvania to create the 'Haas Trust' at the Wharton School. This donation aimed to support educational and research initiatives. The generosity provided by the Haas family has been pivotal in advancing Wharton's educational mission, including enhancements in academic programs and faculty endowments. The Haas family's philanthropic activities have fueled significant institutional growth and development over many decades.

In 1946, the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC), the world's first general-purpose electronic digital computer, was born at the University of Pennsylvania. Created mainly to calculate artillery firing tables for the United States Army's Ballistic Research Laboratory, this technological breakthrough laid the foundation for the computer age. The project was spearheaded by John W. Mauchly and J. Presper Eckert of the Moore School of Electrical Engineering at Penn, marking a significant milestone in computing history.

During the 1965 Civil Rights Movement, the University of Pennsylvania launched initiatives to integrate African American studies and race relations into its curriculum. This came in response to nationwide calls for racial equality and social justice. Penn Civil Rights Movement efforts, involving students and faculty, championed discussions around racial inequalities and social justice, leading to the development of courses that connected civil rights actions to academic study. This landmark initiative was a step toward deeper engagement with issues of diversity and inclusion.

The Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) at the University of Pennsylvania was established to present innovative exhibitions and a wide range of programming on contemporary art. Founded in 1978, the ICA has provided a platform for emerging and established artists. Exhibitions have included groundbreaking works, early surveys of artists like Robert Mapplethorpe, and thematic group exhibitions. The ICA has played a vital role in promoting contemporary art, fostering public appreciation and understanding of new artistic expressions.

The University of Pennsylvania embarked on a significant neighborhood restoration project in the Spruce Hill area and beyond during the mid-1980s. This initiative aimed to revitalize the local community, improve campus safety, and foster better relations between the university and its neighbors. Enhancements included renovations, community engagements, and safety improvements. The project would later be seen as a catalyst for the continued development of University City, Philadelphia, demonstrating Penn's commitment to urban renewal and community partnerships.

On November 17, 2001, the University of Pennsylvania celebrated the completion of Jon M. Huntsman Hall, the most significant academic building at the Wharton School. Huntsman Hall, named in honor of Jon M. Huntsman, whose generous contributions made its construction possible, has a design that embraces modern technology and educational flexibility. The building features advanced facilities that support Wharton's mission to integrate applied research and teaching excellence. It embodies innovative approaches in business education architecture.