Editing Concord University (section)

==History==
Founded as a normal school dedicated to teacher preparation, its journey reflects the broader development of regional colleges in the United States, transitioning from a localized institute to a comprehensive university.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://library.concord.edu/html/concord_history.html |title=Concord University history |publisher=Concord University Library |access-date=26 December 2012 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.concord.edu/about-concord/history-goals |title=History & Goals |publisher=Concord University |access-date=26 December 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20151005220202/http://www.concord.edu/about-concord/history-goals |archive-date=5 October 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Elmore |first1=Garland C. |title=Concord University Early History |url= http://athensweknew.com/concord_university_early_history.html |website=athensweknew.com |date=2011 |access-date=21 February 2021}}</ref>

===Foundation===
The genesis of Concord University goes back to February 28, 1872, when the West Virginia State Legislature officially established a Branch State Normal School in the community then known as "Concord Church." The residents chose the name "Concord" to symbolize harmony and fellowship, a poignant reflection of the post-Civil War era in which it was founded. Despite the initial legislative act, a lack of immediate state funding meant that local efforts by five prominent families were instrumental in securing land and constructing a rudimentary building.

Classes at the newly established institution officially commenced on May 10, 1875, welcoming an inaugural class of 70 students. Early years were marked by dedication and community support. A significant milestone occurred in 1887 when the West Virginia legislators finally appropriated state funds to construct a new, more substantial brick building erected on the present Athens Middle School site. This expansion underscored the state's growing commitment to public education.

In 1896, a practical challenge led to a symbolic change: due to confusion with another post office named "Concord" in Hampshire County, West Virginia, the town's name was officially changed to "Athens." This renaming was a deliberate nod to the ancient Greek city, renowned as a center of learning and culture, thus aligning with the aspirations of the burgeoning educational institution. Despite the town's name change, the school retained its original designation, "Concord."<ref>{{cite news |last1=Harvey |first1=Jeff |title=What's in a name? A lot, if you lived in Athens, or Concord |url= https://www.ptonline.net/news/local_news/what-s-in-a-name-a-lot-if-you-lived/article_ba965731-125c-539e-a3bf-be42493d4109.html |work=Princeton Times |date=May 8, 2017 |access-date=February 21, 2021}}</ref>

===Expansion and name change===
The turn of the century brought both challenges and further development. A devastating fire in 1910 destroyed the original brick building, necessitating a complete relocation of the campus to its current, elevated site. Initially known as "Old Main," a new building was erected in 1912. This iconic structure is still a central feature of the campus and is now recognized as Marsh Hall.

The post-World War I era ushered in a period of significant expansion. Beginning in 1918, Concord saw the construction of new residence halls and a gymnasium, signaling a broadening of its facilities. Concurrently, its academic programs underwent substantial upgrades, moving beyond purely secondary-level instruction. This period also saw shifts in its official designation, reflecting its evolving mission. In 1931, the institution's name was changed to "Concord State Teachers College," solidifying its role in preparing educators for West Virginia's schools. This year marked a significant achievement as the institution gained full national accreditation.

World War II brought unique changes to the campus. In 1943, the institution's name was shortened to "Concord College," its facilities were temporarily utilized by the [[United States Army Air Corps]] 15th College Training Detachment. This program trained young soldiers as Army Pilots, integrating military and academic credit. Following the war, in 1945, substantial postwar enrollment growth and a significant physical plant expansion began, including constructing a new Science Building. The period up to 1959 saw continued campus growth with the addition of the College Center, new student and faculty housing, and an expansion of the curriculum, emphasizing academic quality and fostering a more cosmopolitan faculty.

===Growth and university status===
The latter half of the 20th century presented new challenges and opportunities for Concord. In 1973, a proposal emerged from the West Virginia Board of Regents and the State Legislature to merge Concord College with nearby [[Bluefield State College]]. However, even the proposed administrative merger proved contentious and was ultimately abandoned in 1976. Following the cessation of merger plans, Concord experienced a notable increase in enrollment, accompanied by the introduction of various new academic programs.

The institution continued to adapt to the changing landscape of higher education. A pivotal moment in its modern history arrived in 2004 when Concord College officially transitioned to "Concord University." This renaming reflected its expanded academic offerings, graduate programs, and growing regional significance, signaling a new chapter in its long-standing commitment to education in southern West Virginia.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.concord.edu/about/history-future |title=Mission, History, and Future |work=Concord University |access-date=29 May 2025}}</ref>