In 1904, Mary Jane McLeod Bethune founded what is today Bethune-Cookman University. There are 36 stately brick buildings on the main campus and, under the Continuing Education Program, the university operates extension sites in the Florida cities of Bradenton, Fort Pierce, Deltona, Gainesville, Spuds (branch campus), Sanford and West Palm Beach, and a weekend university on campus.

Mission:
The mission of Bethune-Cookman University is to educate a diverse community of learners to become responsible, productive citizens and solution seekers through the promotion of faith, scholarship, creative endeavors, leadership and service.

(Revised and approved by the Bethune-Cookman University Board of Trustees, January 17, 2020)

Vision:
Bethune-Cookman University will define new standards for academic excellence and student success by educating and empowering learners who will seek their own solutions; advocate opportunities for all citizens to improve their quality of life; and inculcate global perspectives and realities to people worldwide.

Core Values:
Core Values The University is guided by its core values: F.I.R.S.T.

Core values are defined as inviolable commitments that express, “who we are as an institution” and what principles or qualities should infuse all practices and activities within the institution. The resulting set of core values is as follows:

F – FAITH: We recognize and uphold the Christian tradition while welcoming the diversity of faiths.

I – INTEGRITY: We live in a way that reflects our deepest convictions.

R – RESPECT: We recognize the inherent dignity and worth of each person.

S – SERVICE: We seek social justice through civic engagement.

T – THIRST FOR KNOWLEDGE: We are engaged in the continuous pursuit of learning that transforms us and the world.