NAU history

From a small teacher’s college to a nationally recognized public research university, NAU’s roots run deep and its branches extend throughout Arizona and beyond. Explore a legacy shaped by resilience, innovation, and the power of education.

1899: The founding of Northern Arizona Normal School

NAU’s story began in 1899, when Northern Arizona Normal School (NANS) opened in Flagstaff to train future educators. With just 23 students, two faculty members, and two sheepskin-bound dictionaries, it planted the first seeds of a much larger vision.

By 1901, the first graduating class (four pioneering women!) received their credentials to teach in the Arizona Territory. As the mission expanded, the school evolved into Arizona State Teachers College at Flagstaff in 1929.

1930s: Strength through hardship

During the Great Depression, the college provided jobs and opportunities that helped students stay in school. President Grady Gammage famously called education a “depression industry” because it offered hope in hard times.

In this era of grit and growth, NAU launched graduate programs and welcomed students from all backgrounds, including Ida Mae Fredericks, the first Hopi student to earn a college degree in 1939.

1940s: A postwar turning point

World War II brought change to campuses nationwide. At NAU, the V-12 Navy College Training Program helped students continue their education while preparing to serve. After the war, enrollment surged as veterans returned, and the school responded with new programs in the arts and sciences. In 1958, NAU launched its now-renowned forestry program.

The institution’s evolution continued with name changes, from Arizona State Teachers College to Arizona State College at Flagstaff, and then simply Arizona State College. These changes reflected a broader mission and growing reputation.

1966: Becoming Northern Arizona University

In 1966, the Arizona Board of Regents granted university status, officially naming the institution Northern Arizona University. Doctoral degrees in education and philosophy soon followed, with the first doctoral class graduating in 1973.

2007–today: Innovation takes center stage

Since 2007, Northern Arizona University has grown its role as a public university in Arizona through transformative philanthropy, groundbreaking research, expanded access to higher education, and innovation that serves communities across the state and beyond.

  • 2007: William A. “Bill” Franke gifted NAU $25 million dollars, establishing the W. A. Franke College of Business.
  • 2011: NAU opened the Center for Native American and Indigenous Futures, strengthening its commitment to Native American students, cultures, and communities.
  • 2023: NAU launched Access2Excellence (A2E), guaranteeing tuition coverage for eligible undergraduate Arizona residents with household incomes of $65,000 or less. The program also extends full tuition coverage to members of Arizona’s 22 federally recognized tribes, regardless of income.
  • 2024: Tech innovator Steve Sanghi made a $10 million gift to NAU, the single largest gift of its kind in the university’s 125-year history. The Steve Sanghi College of Engineering supports engineering education, research, innovation, and Arizona’s growing technology workforce.
  • 2025: NAU achieved Carnegie Research 1 (R1) status, the highest research classification in the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. The designation recognizes NAU’s growth in research activity, graduate education, and knowledge creation.
  • 2026: NAU established the Maria and Steve Sanghi College of Nursing following another major gift from the Sanghis. The investment supports nursing education, leadership development, and efforts to address Arizona’s nursing workforce needs.

Today, NAU builds on more than a century of history by continuing to expand opportunity, advancing research, and preparing graduates to make an impact in Arizona and around the world.

Honoring our roots, shaping the future

NAU’s story is one of perseverance, purpose, and transformation. From 23 students in a one-room schoolhouse to tens of thousands across Arizona and online, NAU continues to lead with innovation and impact while grounded in community, opportunity, and the belief that education changes lives.

Whether you’re a student, faculty member, or future Lumberjack, there’s a place for you in the next chapter of NAU’s legacy.