Jan 24, 2013 07:19 AM EST By Staff Reporter, UniversityHerald Reporter

After almost 146 years since its inception, King College will bear a new name starting this June. It will be officially called as King University. It is regarded by many as an important milestone in the college's history.

However, the official college website already features the new proposed name.

The decision to change the institution name was a step toward in establishing itself as a leader in higher education. Plus, most of the countries refer to 'college' as an education institution that is right above the high school level.

"College is a term that, while clearly understood in the U.S., has different meaning around the world," President Greg Jordan said. "Some understood it as a pre-university program." 

Jordan said that the much anticipated change has come at the right time with 2,400 students and more academic programs than ever.  

"King is committed to being a leader," Jordan said. "We think the [name] of King University is most appropriate for that effort," Tri Cities reports. "This is no small accomplishment for us. We're delighted to be in this position." 

With the name change, the university hopes to secure partnerships with other institutions and educational groups to increase enrolments, attract foreign students, doctorate programs and new online and professional studies.

"Higher education is going to continue to undergo some significant changes in the years ahead," William Adams, chairman of King's board, said. The decision "reflects the progress we've made, but also our desire to remain on the cutting edge. We want to keep leading and evolving." 

Adams said that launching new projects and goals will help the college to lead and evolve efficiently in the field of higher education.

Jordan said that students, faculty and management were very excited upon hearing the news and hoped that people around here would start referring to the new name almost immediately.

Student Jade Schroeder said that it could also make finding a job after graduation a little bit easier."I would like my university to be known nationwide rather than just Tennessee," Schroeder said, WCYB reports.

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