College of the Holy Cross

Nestled on Mount Saint James in Worcester, Massachusetts, the College of the Holy Cross stands as New England's pioneering Catholic college and one of the oldest Catholic institutions of higher education in the United States. Since its founding in 1843, Holy Cross has been dedicated to a robust Jesuit liberal arts education, cultivating critical thinkers and ethical leaders within a vibrant residential community. Its commitment to academic excellence and a holistic student experience makes it an academically competitive institution, often recognized among the "Hidden Ivies."

The college's origins trace back to Benedict Joseph Fenwick, the second Bishop of Boston, whose vision for a Catholic college faced significant resistance in Boston. Undeterred, Fenwick established Holy Cross 45 miles west in central Massachusetts, where the Society of Jesus could operate with greater autonomy. The site, formerly a boarding school, was acquired in February 1843, and the cornerstone for Fenwick Hall was laid that June, cementing Fenwick's dream of providing essential Jesuit education, particularly for the burgeoning Catholic Irish American immigrant population.

Academically, Holy Cross offers a rich array of 64 programs, allowing students to explore traditional disciplines, interdisciplinary studies, or even design their own majors. The college is a four-year residential institution fostering a close-knit community of approximately 3,256 undergraduates. Beyond the classroom, students compete in NCAA Division I athletics as the Crusaders within the Patriot League, embodying the college's spirit of dedication and teamwork. With a substantial endowment of $1.109 billion (2024), Holy Cross ensures enduring resources for its students and faculty.

Graduates of Holy Cross distinguish themselves across various fields, a testament to the college's rigorous education and commitment to global engagement. It is a top producer of Fulbright scholars, with 182 grantees, and its alumni include Nobel Prize winners, U.S. Senators, Academy Award recipients, and influential figures like U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and Dr. Anthony Fauci. The college's legacy is defined by its deep roots in Jesuit tradition, its challenging academics, and its remarkable impact on the world.