Founded in 1834, Wake Forest University is a private university located in Winston-Salem, N.C., with more than 8,000 students. The undergraduate population of more than 5,200 hails from 49 states and more than 50 foreign countries. Wake Forest offers the personal attention of a small liberal arts college, coupled with the breadth and global relevancy of a leading research institution. Our mission is to educate the whole person, graduating students who seek purpose-filled lives while building a community dedicated to serving humanity in the spirit of our motto, Pro Humanitate.

Ours is a vibrant and diverse academic community in which students pursue learning in one or more of the 45 majors, 60 minors and additional programs we offer within our six colleges and schools.

In September 2020, U.S. News & World Report ranked Wake Forest as one of the top 30 National Universities for the 25th consecutive year. In addition to the overall standing of 28th place, Wake Forest stands at 24th for Best Value.

Our Mission

Our mission is to educate the whole person, graduating students who seek purpose-filled lives while building a community dedicated to serving humanity in the spirit of our motto, Pro Humanitate.

Office of Civic & Community Engagement

The Office of Civic & Community Engagement is the hub of community-based activity at Wake Forest University. In the spirit of Pro Humanitate, we engage community partners, faculty, staff, and students to create meaningful social change. The Office aims to leverage resources, build capacity, and incubate community initiatives in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and beyond.

Pro Humanitate
It’s about us, and the greater meaning of what it means to be human. Our motto, Pro Humanitate (For Humanity), is a calling to use our knowledge, talents and compassion to better the lives of others. It can mean donating time and resources to our communities or simply a lifelong commitment to pursuing our best self. No matter your personal interpretation, it’s an opportunity to leave the world better than we found it.
 

Different. Together.

Diversity, inclusion and respect are foundational elements within a deeply personal education. Because they represent the right thing to do, and because ignoring the power of diversity defies the purpose of education. Open minds absorb new perspectives and experiences, and more readily explore the complex challenges that hone vision and propel potential. Actively seeking common ground and an understanding of our differences prepares students for the diverse world that awaits them. Anything less would be shortsighted.

Let us Strive for a Collective Commitment to Equity
The Office of Diversity and Inclusion supports the University’s mission of creating a more diverse learning community. Developmental and proactive in its approach, as well as reactive to the constant challenges to inclusion and equity in our community and in our society, ODI organizes its efforts around offering compelling and representative programming, influencing and enhancing equitable policies, and elevating and informing inclusive practices. These efforts promote a safe, growth-minded, and engaged campus community, wherein students, staff, and faculty – within and across multiple identities – can feel supported and valued in their academic, social, and professional endeavors. Ultimately, ODI recognizes that “diversity” is not enough, and “inclusion” is but a step towards the ultimate goal of sustaining “equity” for all members of our community.