History:

In response to a growing desire for residents of the region to have access to higher education, a group of forward-thinking citizens from across Auglaize, Darke, Mercer, and Van Wert Counties organized early in 1962. The organization became officially incorporated as the Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF). Its sole purpose was to obtain higher education opportunities for the residents of Western Ohio. After establishing a cooperative agreement with Ohio Northern University, the Western Ohio Educational Foundation officially opened its doors in the fall of 1962. With enrollment at 285 students, more than twice the number anticipated, the newly established foundation had begun the process whereby the communities' citizens could have immediate access to a college degree.

At first, classes were held in a local high school, but as interest in the college continued to build, the WOEF Board was challenged to provide additional space and faculty for a growing number of students. Through a series of successful fund drives, the WOEF Board assured the growth of the college through the purchase of a vacant public school building in Celina. With the need for immediate facilities now secure, college enrollment continued to increase. As the community continued to require additional educational offerings, the WOEF Board voted in 1969 for the college to become fully affiliated with Wright State University as its sole branch campus.