Edgewood College

Nestled in a rich legacy, Edgewood College stands as a vibrant private university committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment. With a student body of 2,469, Edgewood offers a distinctive educational experience rooted in the liberal arts, preparing students for meaningful careers and lives of purpose. Its journey from a dedicated girls' academy to a comprehensive university exemplifies a continuous evolution to meet the changing needs of its students and society.

Edgewood's history began long before its formal establishment, tracing back to 1873 when Governor Cadwallader C. Washburn generously donated Edgewood Villa to the Dominican Sisters. This act laid the foundation for St. Regina Academy in 1881, a boarding school for girls that instilled a strong educational ethos. Enduring challenges, including a devastating fire and subsequent rebuilding, the institution reopened as Sacred Heart Academy, showcasing an unwavering commitment to learning. By 1927, this commitment blossomed into Edgewood Junior College, offering a liberal arts curriculum for women, a vision that steadily expanded through the Great Depression.

The college's growth into a full-fledged four-year institution by 1941 marked a significant milestone, enabling it to award Bachelor of Science degrees in education. Edgewood swiftly embraced a broader vision of inclusion, welcoming its first international students in 1948 and African-American students in 1949, followed by the hiring of its first African-American faculty member in 1956. This progressive spirit continues as the institution prepares to formally transition to Edgewood University in 2025, celebrating its centennial by reaffirming its dedication to a diverse and expanding academic landscape.