The origin of BU’s motto: Learning, Virtue, Piety
Discover the origin of BU's motto: Learning, Virtue, Piety.
The legacy of Boston University’s Methodist roots is reflected in the University motto, Learning, Virtue, Piety. Founded as a Methodist seminary in Newbury, Vt., in 1839, its name was changed often in its early history, starting as the Newbury Biblical Institute, then, on moving to Concord, N.H., in 1847, becoming the Methodist General Biblical Institute of Concord. The school moved to Boston’s Beacon Hill in 1867 and was rechristened the Boston Theological School. Two years later, Boston University was incorporated, and in 1871 the Boston Theological School merged with the new university. BU Photo Services.