It’s a Great Day to Be a Wildcat!

McMinnville’s charm shows up for anyone here for even a few minutes and one of the cornerstones of the community here is Linfield University. Our award-winning wineries and vibrant downtown are often the stars of the show, but Linfield is more than just an educational institution, it’s a living, breathing part of McMinnville’s soul, deeply intertwined with our local culture, economy, and spirit.

Established in 1858, Linfield’s roots run deep with its picturesque campus, stately oak trees, and historic brick buildings. It is a beautiful backdrop to our city, but the university’s importance goes far beyond aesthetics. Linfield isn’t just for students and faculty; it’s a dynamic resource for everyone in McMinnville and our visitors. Throughout the year, the campus buzzes with events, artistic, athletic, and beyond, that are open to the public, offering unique opportunities to experience that part of our city’s culture.

For the arts enthusiast, there’s a full calendar of events from contemporary art at the Linfield Gallery, as well as student and faculty recitals, theatrical productions at the campus’s Marshall Theatre and Ice Auditorium. For the sports fan, there’s plenty to enjoy at Linfield. The Wildcats are as successful as any program at their Division III level. The baseball, basketball, soccer, and volleyball teams, among others, are constantly competitive and entertaining.

During football season, Maxwell Field comes alive on crisp autumn afternoons, full of pride and tradition. It’s arguable that the Linfield football program is among the most successful across any collegiate level, with a streak of winning seasons going back to 1956.

For those with a passion for lifelong learning, Linfield frequently hosts guest speakers, distinguished lecturers, and workshops on a wide range of topics, many of which are open to the public. These events provide fantastic opportunities for intellectual engagement and exposure to new ideas. An annual highlight is the Oregon Nobel Laureate Symposium, which brings the genius of the world’s Nobel Prize winners to McMinnville, where they share their insights and research.

Or you can simply walk across the beautiful campus, admiring the architecture while observing the students in their natural environment, learning and growing.

Linfield University isn’t just an institution; it’s a vital part of our community, offering enriching experiences for students, residents, and visitors alike. Whether you’re an alumnus coming back to revisit your memories or someone just wanting to catch some of the campus excitement, it’s always a great day to be a Wildcat!