Donnelly College

Donnelly College, established in 1949, stands as a testament to accessible education and profound community engagement. Founded by the dedicated Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica and Bishop George Joseph Donnelly, the college began with a mission to serve, initially as a two-year institution. This foundational commitment to support and uplift its students continues to define its unique character today, fostering an environment where individuals can thrive academically and personally, often within the Kansas City area.

Over the decades, Donnelly College has strategically expanded its academic offerings to meet evolving student needs. While rooted in its two-year college heritage, it proudly introduced its first bachelor's degree program, Organizational Leadership, in 2006, now known as Business Leadership. This growth reflects the college's dedication to providing pathways for advanced learning. Further demonstrating its forward-thinking approach, Donnelly has since added a Bachelor's degree in Information Systems, equipping students with essential skills for the modern workforce and diverse career paths.

Beyond its traditional campus programs, Donnelly College is particularly distinguished by its innovative commitment to correctional education. Since 2001, the college has pioneered a transformative college in prison program, offering inmates the invaluable opportunity to pursue higher education. This impactful initiative has celebrated significant success, with over 30 men graduating from the program as of 2023, showcasing Donnelly's profound belief in education as a tool for rehabilitation and societal contribution. In a recent development signaling ongoing progress, Donnelly also transitioned into a new, modern academic building in the fall of 2020, further enhancing the learning experience for all its students.