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Benedictine College

Atchison, KS

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

“Forward. Always Forward.”

1971
Founded
Private liberal arts college
Type
2,236
Total Students
2,404
Undergrad
132
Graduate
$35K
Tuition (In-State)
$35K
Tuition (Out-State)
$27K
Avg Net Price
76%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Graduation Rate
6-year
80%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Stephen D. Minnis

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

About Benedictine College

Embrace a rich legacy of faith and forward-thinking education at Benedictine College.

Benedictine College, a vibrant private liberal arts institution, stands as a testament to enduring Catholic values and academic excellence. Rooted in a deep history, the college inspires students to move "Forward. Always Forward." as they pursue a comprehensive education. With a current student body of 2,536, Benedictine College offers a nurturing environment where intellectual curiosity and spiritual growth intertwine.

Its unique story began in 1971 with the merger of two venerable institutions: St. Benedict's College, a men's college founded by Benedictine monks in 1858, and Mount St. Scholastica College, established by Benedictine Sisters in 1863. This union forged a co-educational powerhouse, blending centuries of tradition with modern educational approaches. Originally designed to prepare students for the priesthood, St. Benedict's College evolved, expanding its curriculum to serve a broader population and becoming an accredited four-year liberal arts college by 1927. Similarly, Mount St. Scholastica evolved from a junior college to a degree-conferring senior college.

Today, Benedictine College continues to uphold the rigorous academic standards and community-focused ethos of its founders. Students engage in a robust liberal arts curriculum designed to cultivate critical thinking, ethical leadership, and a commitment to service. The college's dedication to its Benedictine heritage ensures an enriching student experience, fostering a supportive community that encourages personal development alongside academic achievement.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1971 through the merger of St. Benedict's College (1858) and Mount St. Scholastica College (1863).
  • ✦Current student enrollment of 2,536, fostering a close-knit learning community.
  • ✦A private liberal arts college upholding Catholic Benedictine traditions.
  • ✦Celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2008, reflecting a long and rich educational heritage.
  • ✦Operates under the inspiring motto: "Forward. Always Forward."

Timeline

1858
St. Benedict's College, a men's boarding school, founded by Benedictine monks in Atchison.
1863
Benedictine Sisters founded St. Scholastica's Academy (later Mount St. Scholastica College) for young women.
1924
Mount St. Scholastica's Junior College opened, offering tertiary education for women.
1927
St. Benedict's College became an accredited four-year liberal arts college.
1932
Mount St. Scholastica became a senior college, authorized to confer bachelor degrees.
1970
St. Benedict's College announced its intention to become co-educational.
1971
St. Benedict's College and Mount St. Scholastica College merged to form Benedictine College.
1989
Benedictine College terminated the lease of facilities from Mount St. Scholastica College amidst financial hardship.
2004
Stephen D. Minnis became president of Benedictine College.
2008
Benedictine College celebrated its 150th anniversary.
🏛️
55 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Stephen D. Minnis
President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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