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More than an institution.

Peace University was founded on the belief that education should transform lives, not just confer credentials. We are a community of learners, thinkers, innovators, and changemakers dedicated to creating meaningful impact.

Peace University
Our Mission

Where purpose meets academic excellence.

Peace University is committed to exceeding regional, national and international accreditation standards. Our innovative learning environment empowers students through flexible education, academic excellence, and career-focused programs that prepare them for success anywhere in the world.

Our Mission

Education, Not Just Schooling.

Peace University is committed to delivering exceptional education while upholding rigorous academic standards and fostering a supportive, inclusive learning environment that prepares students for lifelong success.

Our faculty and staff mentor students through flexible, innovative learning experiences that promote academic excellence, leadership, integrity, and meaningful global impact. Through accessible programs, research, and community engagement, Peace University empowers learners to become ethical leaders who create positive change around the world.

Values

What we stand for.

Global Inclusion

We welcome students from every background, nationality, and walk of life.

Academic Freedom

Open inquiry, free expression and intellectual courage define our culture.

Excellence

We uphold the highest academic and professional standards in everything.

Community

We foster belonging, collaboration and shared growth for every learner.

Our Journey

History & Milestones

2018

University Founded

Peace University is founded in Virginia, USA, with a mission to deliver purpose-driven higher education that transforms lives and empowers ethical global leadership.

2019

First Cohort Enrolls

The first cohort of 150 students enrolls across 5 founding undergraduate programs, marking the beginning of our vibrant and diverse academic community.

2020

Online Platform Launch

Launch of our fully flexible online learning platform and partnership with 3 international institutions, expanding access to quality education across borders.

2021

Master's Programs & Initiatives

Introduces Master's programs, the Human Rights & Democracy Initiative, and the Women in Focus media project, deepening our commitment to justice and equity.

2022

Accreditation & Alumni Milestone

Achieves Virginia religious exemption status; launches the Veterans for Global Growth program; and surpasses 1,000 alumni making impact worldwide.

2024

Expansion & New Initiatives

Expands to 40+ programs across 8 faculties; launches the Minorities in Education initiative and PASS schooling system, cementing our role as an inclusive education leader.

Leadership

Leadership & Governance

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Dr. Ahmed Rahimi

Ph.D. International Education · Chancellor

With over 25 years in international higher education, Dr. Rahimi previously served as a senior education advisor at UNESCO, shaping policy across 40+ nations. His vision centers on inclusive, purpose-driven learning that bridges cultural divides and fosters global citizenship.

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Prof. Joanna Aderemi

Ph.D. Education Policy · Provost & VP Academic

Prof. Aderemi brings 18 years of academic leadership experience, having previously led curriculum innovation and faculty development at two leading Commonwealth universities. Her research on equitable assessment frameworks informs our rigorous program standards.

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Dr. Michael Okafor

Ed.D. Student Affairs · Dean of Students

Dr. Okafor is a recognized expert in student affairs and global support services, with extensive experience building inclusive communities for international, first-generation, and underserved student populations. His work prioritizes holistic well-being and belonging.

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Prof. Sarah Lindqvist

Ph.D. Human Rights Law · Director of Research

Prof. Lindqvist is an award-winning scholar with over 100 peer-reviewed publications on human rights, democratic governance, and peacebuilding. She leads our research institute and cultivates partnerships with policy think tanks and global UN agencies.

Standards

Accreditation & Global Partnerships

40+ Global Institutional Partners  ·  32 Countries with Active Student Enrollment

Accreditation & Credentials

Peace University is a Virginia religious institution exempt from SCHEV oversight. Our programs adhere to rigorous academic standards benchmarked against regional and international best practices. Faculty credentials are reviewed annually, and every program undergoes periodic curriculum and outcomes assessment. We also maintain articulation pathways with accredited international partners and conduct external quality reviews each year to support continuous improvement.

  • Annual faculty credential review and professional development
  • Periodic curriculum review with industry and practitioner input
  • Student learning outcomes assessed at program and institutional levels

Our Global Partners

UNESCO Education Partner

International Association of Universities

Approved for Distance Education by Virginia Council for Private Education

Global Peace Foundation

Virginia Council for Private Education

African Higher Education Consortium

Media Diversity Institute

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Peace University story.