1998 Bob Brower inaugurated as 14th president of the institution; name changes to Point Loma Nazarene University.
"As I have read and studied the history of this institution, I have been captured by an overriding conviction about this place. This is an 'institution of destiny.' Many times, and in many ways, the history of this place is marked by occasions when it could have closed, shouldn't have survived, and could have lost its focus. But time after time, just when things looked hopeless, dedicated individuals stepped forward and literally bridged the gap by giving gifts and assets, donating services, and investing heroic energies to keep the dream alive.
"It was Dr. Bresee, our founder, who had a vision of what higher education would mean for those who received it. As a trustee in the founding days of the University of Southern California, Dr. Bresee saw far more than the humble beginnings of Pacific Bible College. He purposed to develop an institution beyond the limitations of a narrow curriculum and to achieve the broader opportunities of a university. His commitment to be non-sectarian, yet purposefully Christian, set the stage for men and women to prepare themselves 'to do the work of the Lord in such fields, foreign or domestic, as He calls.'
"Through nearly 100 years now, individuals have guided and developed this institution through multiple locations and soon to be nine names to become a strategic member of the higher education community. Many in our heritage have played significant roles in keeping the dream alive and in forging new visions to bring life and vitality to that dream.
"Envisioning the future has already begun. One month from today, in this same place, at the benediction of commencement, a new chapter in the history of this great institution will begin. On that afternoon, we will become known as Point Loma Nazarene University. This vision of the future came into focus during the last ten years of preparation and a study surrounding the university issue. This beginning will mark our commitment to a vibrant and significant role in our educational and service pursuits. Destiny is something we must not shrink away from. Our role in the educational marketplace is too vital, too important not to pursue it with all of our energies and competencies. Our students, present and yet to come, require nothing less.
"For us, 'Destiny for the Next Century' means that we will proactively pursue our goal of being the premier Wesleyan university in the world. Destiny for this university must include the highest levels of: Quality in our academics, services, programs, opportunities, relationships, and facilities. Character in our leadership, leadership development, and relationships. Yes character still matters. Christ-likeness in all aspects of our personal and community lives, in our passion for service, in our pursuit of justice and opportunity, in our expressions of love and respect for life and others, and in our confidence in the optimism of God's grace extended to all of us. "Today, we begin to plant the seeds for the next century. The posture of destiny for us must lean forward and be guarded by our trust and confidence in our commitment to one another, our freedom and responsibility to dialogue in the building of our decision, and our clear focus to purposefully fulfill our worthy mission."
From President Brower's Inaugural Address April 17, 1998
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