Governor Pillen Recognizes Bellevue University's 60 Years of Service with Statewide Proclamation
Bellevue University celebrated its 60th anniversary at the Nebraska State Capitol as Governor Jim Pillen proclaimed Sept. 12, 2026, as Bellevue University 60th Anniversary Day in Nebraska. The proclamation recognizes six decades of expanding access to higher education, serving military-connected learners and supporting workforce development in Nebraska and beyond.
Key Facts
- Governor Jim Pillen proclaimed Sept. 12, 2026, as Bellevue University 60th Anniversary Day in Nebraska.
- The signing ceremony took place Sept. 15, 2026, in the Warner Chamber at the Nebraska State Capitol.
- Bellevue University opened in 1966 as Bellevue College.
- The university enrolled 355 evening students and 54 daytime students when classes began in September 1966.
- Bellevue University now serves students across the United States and around the world through more than 85 degree programs.
- The university has awarded degrees to more than 70,000 graduates.
- Bellevue University launched its first online course in 1995 and the nation's first online MBA program in 1996.
Bellevue University Celebrates a 60-Year Milestone
Bellevue University leaders, employees and supporters gathered at the Nebraska State Capitol on Sept. 15 for a proclamation signing ceremony recognizing the university's 60th anniversary. During the event, Governor Jim Pillen proclaimed Sept. 12, 2026, as Bellevue University 60th Anniversary Day in Nebraska and called on Nebraskans to recognize the institution's contributions to students, employers, military families and communities throughout the state.
Bellevue University Continues Its Mission
The proclamation highlighted the university's origins in 1966, when local business and civic leaders established Bellevue College to create educational opportunities for working adults, military personnel and others seeking to advance their careers. Classes began in September 1966 with 355 evening students and 54 daytime students, creating a foundation for an institution focused on access and student success.
Today, Bellevue University serves learners across the United States and around the world. The university offers more than 85 degree programs and has awarded degrees to more than 70,000 graduates whose work supports businesses, organizations and communities in Nebraska and beyond.
This proclamation recognizes more than an anniversary. It recognizes six decades of Bellevue University's commitment to helping students achieve their educational and career goals. For 60 years, we have expanded access to higher education, pioneered online learning, supported military-connected learners and partnered with employers to develop the workforce. Those commitments continue to guide our mission as we prepare students to meet the needs of a changing economy and contribute to their communities across Nebraska, the nation and the world.
Innovation Has Shaped Bellevue University's Growth
The proclamation also recognized Bellevue University's role in expanding access to higher education through new learning models and technology. The university introduced accelerated degree-completion programs, offered its first online course in 1995 and launched the nation's first online Master of Business Administration program in 1996. It later became one of the first accredited institutions to offer online degree programs.
Throughout its history, Bellevue University has partnered with employers, community organizations and educational institutions to help learners prepare for career advancement and meet workforce needs. The university continues to support active-duty military members, veterans and military families while providing educational pathways for students at every stage of life.
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with more than 70,000 graduates worldwide. The University is a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, while making college affordable. Routinely ranked among the nation’s top military and accessible institutions, the University serves residential students at its main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, and everywhere online with more than 85 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).