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College of Our Lady of the Elms

Chicopee, MA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Viam Veritatis Elegi("I have chosen the way of truth")

1928
Founded
Private college
Type
1,268
Total Students
1,002
Undergrad
266
Graduate
$12M
Endowment
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Harry Dumay

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

About College of Our Lady of the Elms

Elms College: From women's academy to co-ed liberal arts powerhouse.

College of Our Lady of the Elms, affectionately known as Elms College, offers a vibrant private college experience deeply rooted in a rich history of empowering students. Founded in 1928, it has evolved from its origins as a women's preparatory academy into a dynamic co-educational liberal arts institution, committed to its motto, "Viam Veritatis Elegi" (I have chosen the way of truth). Today, with a close-knit student body of 1268, Elms College provides an environment where students can thrive academically and personally.

Initially chartered as a women's liberal arts college with a strong focus on education, Elms College continually adapted to serve the evolving needs of its community. Throughout the 20th century, it expanded its academic portfolio significantly, introducing crucial undergraduate programs in nursing, business management, and communication sciences and disorders. This dedication to practical, in-demand fields ensures graduates are well-prepared for diverse career paths.

The college further diversified its offerings with innovative programs like Weekend College, paralegal studies, and a Master of Arts degree in teaching, demonstrating a commitment to flexible learning and professional development. In a pivotal moment, Elms College opened its doors to men in the 1998-1999 school year, transforming into the inclusive community it is today. This rich history of adaptation and growth ensures Elms College remains a relevant and impactful institution dedicated to academic excellence and student success.

Key Highlights

  • A private liberal arts college founded in 1928, with roots tracing back to an 1897 preparatory academy.
  • Serves 1,268 students in a supportive and engaging academic community.
  • Offers robust undergraduate programs in high-demand fields such as nursing, business management, and communication sciences and disorders.
  • Provides flexible learning options including an established evening program and Weekend College.
  • Transitioned from a women's college to a co-educational institution, admitting men starting in the 1998-1999 academic year.
  • Upholds the motto: "Viam Veritatis Elegi" (I have chosen the way of truth), guiding its educational philosophy.

Timeline

1897
Co-founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph and the Diocese of Springfield as the Academy of Our Lady of the Elms, a preparatory academy for women.
1899
Property purchased in Chicopee, becoming St. Joseph's Normal College.
1927
Sisters of Saint Joseph petitioned the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to charter the school as a women's liberal arts college.
1928
Charter approved, and the name was changed to the College of Our Lady of the Elms.
1953
An evening program was established to meet community needs.
1960s-1970s
Developed undergraduate programs in nursing, business management, and communication sciences and disorders.
Late 1980s
Instituted Weekend College, paralegal studies, legal studies, and a Master of Arts degree program in teaching.
1997
The Elms College board of trustees voted to begin admitting men.
1998-1999
Began admitting men, officially becoming a co-educational institution.
🏛️
98 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Harry Dumay
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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