Anna Maria College

Established in 1946 by the Sisters of Saint Anne, Anna Maria College began its journey as a women's college in Marlborough, Massachusetts. Rooted in a mission of service and education, the college quickly grew, relocating to its permanent Paxton campus in 1951 and achieving accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges just four years later.

The institution marked significant milestones in its evolution, becoming coeducational in 1973 and introducing graduate degree programs the following year. This period also saw a transition in governance, as the Sisters of Saint Anne stepped back from daily operations in 1980, paving the way for a dedicated Board of Trustees. Demonstrating its commitment to social responsibility, Anna Maria College established the impactful Molly Bish Center for the Protection of Children and the Elderly in 2004, a testament to its enduring focus on community well-being.

Despite its rich history and contributions, Anna Maria College faced insurmountable financial challenges, leading to the difficult decision to cease operations after the Spring 2026 semester. In a final act of dedication to its students, the college proactively arranged comprehensive transfer pathway agreements with eleven other respected institutions, including Worcester State University, Regis College, and the University of Massachusetts Lowell, ensuring that its students could seamlessly continue their academic pursuits and achieve their educational goals.