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Aquinas Institute of Theology

Saint Louis, MO

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1925
Founded
Private graduate school and seminary
Type
Special Focus Four-Year
Classification
President: Mark E. Wedig

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Aquinas Institute of Theology

A leading private graduate school and seminary, pioneering ecumenical theology and fostering ministry in St. Louis.

Aquinas Institute of Theology stands as a distinguished private graduate school and seminary, offering a rich tradition of theological education within a vibrant community. Established in 1925, it has a long-standing commitment to preparing students for impactful roles in ministry, academia, and various professional fields. Known for its rigorous academic programs and a forward-thinking approach, Aquinas fosters intellectual growth and spiritual formation, making it an ideal environment for those seeking to deepen their understanding of faith and service.

The Institute boasts a significant history of innovation in theological education. In 1965, it played a pivotal role in forming the Association of Theological Schools of Iowa, the nation's first ecumenical consortium, showcasing its dedication to interfaith collaboration. Furthermore, Aquinas was among the first Catholic schools to welcome women students in 1967 and to achieve accreditation from the esteemed Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada by 1968. These milestones underscore its progressive spirit and commitment to inclusive theological scholarship.

Since its move to St. Louis, Missouri, in 1981, Aquinas Institute has forged a robust "Cooperative Project for Theological Education" with Saint Louis University, residing on its campus and enriching both institutions. This partnership offers students unparalleled access to a broader academic community and resources. The Institute also celebrates excellence in ministry through its annual Great Preacher Award, Catherine of Siena Excellence in Ministry Award, and the Aquinas Lecture, featuring leading theologians who engage with contemporary issues, providing a stimulating intellectual environment for all.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1925 as a private graduate school and seminary.
  • Pioneered the nation's first ecumenical consortium, the Association of Theological Schools of Iowa, in 1965.
  • Welcomed its first women students in 1967, demonstrating an early commitment to inclusivity.
  • Among the first five Catholic schools accredited by the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada by 1968.
  • Established a "Cooperative Project for Theological Education" with Saint Louis University upon moving to St. Louis in 1981.
  • Annually bestows the Great Preacher Award, Catherine of Siena Excellence in Ministry Award, and hosts the Aquinas Lecture.

Timeline

1925
Founded as Aquinas Institute of Theology
1956
St. Rose of Lima and Studium Generale incorporated as Aquinas Institute of Philosophy and Theology
1964
Accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools
1965
Co-founded the Association of Theological Schools of Iowa, the nation's first ecumenical consortium
1967
Admitted its first women students
1968
Accredited by the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada
1981
Relocated to St. Louis, Missouri, initiating a "Cooperative Project for Theological Education" with Saint Louis University
1981
Inaugurated the Great Preacher Award, Catherine of Siena Excellence in Ministry Award, and the annual Aquinas Lecture
2005
Moved to a renovated historic factory in Midtown St. Louis
🏛️
101 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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