Kerrville leaders began envisioning a college in the early 20th century and pursued negotiations with the Presbyterian Synod of Texas from 1904, when plans were made for an annual camp meeting that might one day evolve into a boys' school. In 1914, local businessman Charles Schreiner announced plans to donate 140 acres of land and at least $100,000 to the Synod of Texas to fund the Charles Schreiner Institute for Boys, but World War I delayed the effort. Opening ceremonies were finally held on September 18, 1923, with James J. Delaney as president, and ninety-five students enrolled in the first year. The school emphasized military discipline and religious instruction as a backdrop for general education. Girls were admitted as day students in 1932. During World War II, many students and younger faculty left for military service and defense work, a naval flight school operated at the institute for the duration of the war, and sixty-six alumni lost their lives. Military training became optional in 1957, and in 1971 the board of trustees voted to discontinue it, enroll female boarding students, and institute recruitment of minority and disadvantaged students. The last high school class graduated in 1976, and in 1984 the school became a four-year baccalaureate college, continuing to evolve as one of Texas' leading private institutions.