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Edgewood College

Madison, WI

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Cor ad Cor Loquitur (Latin)("Heart Speaks to Heart")

1927
Founded
Private university
Type
1,104
Total Students
1,236
Undergrad
1,233
Graduate
$50M
Endowment
(2023)
$35K
Tuition (In-State)
$35K
Tuition (Out-State)
$26K
Avg Net Price
95%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Graduation Rate
6-year
75%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification
President: Andrew P. Manion

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

About Edgewood College

From women's junior college to university, Edgewood champions diverse education.

Edgewood College, a private institution with a rich and inspiring history, is set to transition into Edgewood University in 2025, marking a significant milestone in its nearly century-long journey. Founded in 1927 as a junior college for women by the Dominican Sisters, its roots trace back to the pioneering St. Regina Academy established in 1881. This enduring commitment to education, particularly for women, saw Edgewood grow from a private boarding school into a dynamic center for higher learning.

Known for its steadfast dedication to a liberal arts curriculum, Edgewood quickly established academic excellence, receiving approval to award Bachelor of Science degrees in education as early as 1941. The college fostered an environment of intellectual growth, even attracting world-renowned faculty like musician Nadia Boulanger to its summer sessions. This early emphasis on quality instruction laid the groundwork for the comprehensive academic experience offered to its 2,469 students today.

Edgewood's progressive spirit is further highlighted by its long-standing commitment to diversity and inclusion. The college welcomed its first international students in 1948, followed by its first African-American students in 1949, and its first African-American faculty member in 1956. As it prepares for its centennial transformation into Edgewood University, this forward-looking institution continues to uphold its motto, "Cor ad Cor Loquitur" (Heart speaks to Heart), fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment for all.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1927, transitioning to Edgewood University in 2025, its centennial year.
  • A private university serving 2,469 students with a $0.1 billion endowment.
  • Guided by the Latin motto "Cor ad Cor Loquitur" (Heart speaks to Heart).
  • Pioneered women's education, initially opening as a junior college focused on liberal arts.
  • Demonstrated early commitment to diversity, welcoming international students in 1948 and African-American students in 1949.
  • Awarded Bachelor of Science degrees in education as early as 1941, establishing a strong academic foundation.

Timeline

1873
Governor Cadwallader C. Washburn donated Edgewood Villa to the Dominican Sisters.
1881
The Sisters opened St. Regina Academy, a private boarding school for girls.
1894
The school reopened as Sacred Heart Academy after being rebuilt from a fire.
1927
Edgewood Junior College opened with 12 women enrolled.
1941
Edgewood became a four-year college and received approval to award Bachelor of Science degrees in education.
1942
The first 25 students graduated with degrees in education.
1948
The first international students enrolled at Edgewood.
1949
The college admitted its first African-American students.
1956
Sharon Wexler was hired as the first African-American faculty member.
2025
Edgewood College was officially renamed Edgewood University on July 1st, its centennial year.
🏛️
99 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Andrew P. Manion
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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