Bacone College
Bacone College, formerly Bacone Indian University, is a private college in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Founded in 1880 as the Indian University by missionary Almon C. Bacone, it was originally affiliated with the mission arm of what is now American Baptist Churches USA. Renamed as Bacone College in the early 20th century, it is the oldest continuously operated institution of higher education in Oklahoma. The liberal arts college has had strong historic ties to several tribal nations, including the Muscogee and Cherokee. The Bacone College Historic District has been on the National Register of Historic Places listings in Muskogee County, Oklahoma since 2014.
Former names | Indian University (1880–1910) Bacone Indian University (1910) |
|---|---|
| Motto | A Place of Value & Opportunity |
| Type | Private tribal college |
| Established | 1880 |
Religious affiliation | American Baptist Churches USA (former) |
| President | Nicky Michael (interim) |
| Students | 270 |
| Location | Muskogee , Oklahoma , United States |
| Campus | Suburban |
| Colors | Red & White |
| Nickname | Warriors |
Sporting affiliations | NAIA – Continental |
| Website | www |
In 2018, the college was struggling financially. Several tribal nations agreed that year to a consortium and chartered it as a tribal college. This action was intended to secure federal funding under the government's treaty obligations to support Native American education. However, the BIA did not approve conversion, leaving the college with financial issues. The college suspended operations for the Spring semester of 2024, but hopes to reopen.