November 20, 2012
The story of UMKC is a story of partnerships and progress, expansion and education. The University of Kansas City was chartered in 1929, and one year later, Kansas City businessman and philanthropist William Volker donated 40.8 acres to the university. In 1931, Volker acquired and donated the Dickey mansion, which would house the first library, classrooms, cafeteria and administrative offices. UKC’s first classes began in 1933 with 17 instructors and 265 students enrolled. In 1936, 80 students became UKC’s first graduating class. UMKC garnered the top honor from the Corporation for National and Community Service in 2010-11—the direct result of programs such as Tulips on Troost, the Conservatory’s Community Music and Dance Academy, and the School of Pharmacy’s award-winning outreach programs.