Miami University

Miami University was chartered in 1809 by the Ohio General Assembly and was named after the Miami Indian tribe who inhabited the region. The university opened its doors to students in 1824, making it the second-oldest university in Ohio after Ohio University. Early growth was slow due to its frontier location, but by the mid-19th century, Miami had become a respected institution. The university was temporarily closed during the Civil War and reopened in 1866. Under the leadership of Presidents David Swing and Guy Potter Benton, Miami expanded significantly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The university survived the Great Depression and grew rapidly after World War II with the influx of G.I. Bill students. Miami became a model for other public universities and was named one of the original "Public Ivies" in 1985. The university established its Luxembourg campus in 1968 and has become a leader in international education. Notable alumni include U.S. Presidents Benjamin Harrison and William McKinley (attended), authors, corporate leaders, and Rhodes Scholars.