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Lewis University

Romeoville, IL

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Signum Fidei (Latin)(Sign of Faith)

1932
Founded
Private university
Type
3,665
Total Students
4,326
Undergrad
2,685
Graduate
$91M
Endowment
(2024)
$38K
Tuition (In-State)
$38K
Tuition (Out-State)
$18K
Avg Net Price
73%
Acceptance Rate
63%
Graduation Rate
6-year
84%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: David J. Livingston

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

About Lewis University

Lewis University: Charting futures in aviation, arts, and sciences since 1932.

Lewis University stands as a testament to educational innovation and a commitment to student success, evolving from its foundational roots in aviation technology to a comprehensive private university. Guided by its Latin motto, "Signum Fidei" (Sign of Faith), Lewis fosters an engaging learning environment that prepares over 7,000 students for diverse careers and meaningful lives.

Established in 1932 by the Archdiocese of Chicago and Bishop Bernard J. Scheil, the institution quickly gained prominence thanks to the generous patronage of philanthropist Frank J. Lewis. From its very inception as the Holy Name Technical School, aviation technology was the special emphasis, laying the groundwork for today's highly regarded Department of Aviation and Transportation Studies. This rich heritage is further underscored by its campus's unique adjacency to the Lewis University Airport, a direct link to its pioneering spirit and hands-on learning approach.

The university's history is marked by significant growth and adaptation. After a period during World War II when it served the U.S. Navy for pilot training, Lewis resumed regular classes, broadening its scope to include a traditional arts and science curriculum and admitting women for the first time in 1949. This expansion culminated in its transformation into Lewis University in 1973. Today, it proudly offers more than 80 undergraduate majors and programs, an accelerated degree completion option for working adults, various specialized aviation programs, and 35 graduate programs, even extending its reach with degree programs in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Under the leadership of President David J. Livingston, Lewis University continues to build on its legacy of academic excellence and service. Prospective students and families will find a vibrant community dedicated to fostering intellectual curiosity, professional development, and personal growth, all within a nurturing, faith-based environment that truly sets its graduates apart.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1932 by the Archdiocese of Chicago with a pioneering focus on aviation technology.
  • Home to a highly regarded Department of Aviation and Transportation Studies, originating from the university's earliest days.
  • Offers an extensive academic portfolio including over 80 undergraduate majors and 35 graduate programs.
  • Serves a vibrant student body of 7,011, providing a diverse and engaging learning environment.
  • Led by its 10th President, David J. Livingston, who assumed leadership in 2016.
  • Features a campus uniquely adjacent to the Lewis University Airport, enhancing its aviation programs.
  • A private university with an endowment of $0.1 billion, supporting its educational mission.

Timeline

1932
Founded as Holy Name Technical School by the Archdiocese of Chicago.
1934
Incorporated as Lewis Holy Name Technical School.
1935
Renamed Lewis Holy Name School of Aeronautics.
1944
Regular classes resumed after campus was used by U.S. Navy for pilot training during WWII.
1949
Women admitted for the first time.
1952
Name changed to Lewis College of Science and Technology.
1962
Name shortened to Lewis College.
1973
Received its current name, Lewis University.
2004
Total student enrollment surpassed 5,000.
2016
David J. Livingston became the 10th president of the university.
🏛️
94 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

David J. Livingston
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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