Belmont Abbey College

Discover Belmont Abbey College, a distinguished private liberal arts institution with a profound Benedictine heritage, dedicated to fostering intellectual and spiritual growth. Rooted in the Catholic tradition and guided by the motto "Ut in omnibus glorificetur Deus" (That in all things God may be glorified), the college provides an engaging educational experience that prepares students for lives of virtue, purpose, and leadership.

The college's rich history began in 1876, when Benedictine monks from Saint Vincent Archabbey founded it as St. Mary's College. Benefactor Father Jeremiah O'Connell's vision to establish a Catholic educational institution in the Carolinas came to fruition, leading to the first commencement in 1878. Over the decades, the institution evolved, adopting its present name in 1913, becoming coeducational in 1972, and merging with Sacred Heart College for women in 1987. Its architectural grandeur is recognized through the Belmont Abbey Historic District, added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1993, featuring the iconic Belmont Abbey Cathedral and other historic buildings.

A distinctive aspect of the Belmont Abbey experience is its culture of gratitude, epitomized by the Gratitude Bell dedicated in 2016. This tradition encourages students and visitors alike to pause and give thanks for their blessings, fostering a mindful and appreciative community spirit. This unique practice, coupled with a rigorous liberal arts curriculum, ensures that students receive a holistic education that nurtures their minds, bodies, and souls, equipping them with the wisdom and compassion to make a positive impact on the world.