The University of Luhansk (officially Taras Shevchenko National University of Luhansk, often referred to as LNU), located in Luhansk, Ukraine, is the oldest university in Donbas region and has a reputation as one of Ukraine's most prestigious universities. U of Luhansk grew out of an association of professors in the city of Luhansk that was formed by the Soviet authorities as Teachers' Training Institute in 1921. The University of Luhansk is often referred to as the best regional educational eastablishment in Ukraine. In addition to cultural and practical participation in the work of the Ukrainian society, the University participates in international projects such as MBA joint program with Franklin Pierce University. March 1, 1921 (The University Day) – Regional Teachers' Training Courses were opened. 1923 – The first higher educational establishment was founded in Donbas region: Donets Institute of National Education (DIPE) in Luhansk. 1934 – Donetsk Institute of National Education was reorganized into Luhansk State Pedagogical Institute. 1939 – Luhansk State Pedagogical Institute was named after Taras Shevchenko.