History of WMU in Grand Rapids
WMU is proud to have delivered academic programs and services in Grand Rapids continuously since 1909. In the early years, classrooms were rented in various high schools in the area. In 1966, the first Regional Office was established in what was then known as the Lear Siegler Building.
Subsequent offices were established on the campus of Grand Rapids Junior College, and a few years later at Two Fountain Place downtown. In 1988, WMU purchased a building and property on the East Beltline, just north of Woodland Shopping Center. After extensive renovation, the Grand Rapids Regional Center opened in the Fall of 1990. In 2001, WMU opened its second facility, the Graduate Center in Downtown Grand Rapids, to accommodate expanding enrollments and to make room for new program offerings.