University Years
1966-Present
Dr. Platt Cline, noted Flagstaff historian, has characterized NAU as an institution that survived against the odds, one that continually skirmished with a skeptical legislature and competed with sister colleges in southern Arizona. He rightly credits strong leadership, the devotion of former students and faculty, and community support for the school's success.
Today, NAU's enrollment ranks in the top 4 percent of schools and colleges in the nation. Empowered by the Arizona Board of Regents to provide educational opportunities statewide, NAU now serves approximately 20,000 students. Internationally known, NAU has established partnerships with colleges and universities throughout the world, enhancing its comprehensive academic programs. Under the leadership of its thirteenth president, Dr. Clara M. Lovett, NAU is positioning itself to meet the challenges of a global society and the needs of its students as it moves toward the twenty-first century and beyond.