Valparaiso University, founded in 1859 in Valparaiso, Indiana, began as one of the first coeducational colleges in the U.S., originally named Valparaiso Male and Female College. After closing during the Civil War, it was revived in 1873 as the Northern Indiana Normal School and later became Valparaiso University in 1906. Known for its rapid growth, it was once the second-largest university in the nation. In 1925, the Lutheran University Association purchased the school, reinforcing its Christian identity and expanding academic programs. The university has continued evolving through periods of growth, leadership change, and modern challenges, including mascot transitions and financial controversies.