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Rivier University

Nashua, NH

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

“Altiora et Meliora”(Higher and Better)

1933
Founded
Private university
Type
1,312
Total Students
943
Undergrad
770
Graduate
$41M
Endowment
(2020)
$38K
Tuition (In-State)
$38K
Tuition (Out-State)
$28K
Avg Net Price
82%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Graduation Rate
6-year
76%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

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

About Rivier University

Rivier University: Nurturing minds with a mission of service since 1933.

Rivier University, nestled in Nashua, New Hampshire, stands as a private institution deeply rooted in its founding mission of Catholic social teaching and a commitment to serving the economically disadvantaged. Established in 1933 by the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary, the university bears the name of their revered founder, Anne-Marie Rivier, setting a compassionate educational foundation that thrives to this day.

Initially known as Rivier College, the institution rapidly expanded its reach, relocating to its current Nashua campus in 1941 and gaining the authority to offer both graduate and undergraduate programs by 1935. A truly memorable moment in its history occurred in 1960 when then-Senator John F. Kennedy and his wife, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, graced the campus with a visit, highlighting the university's growing regional prominence. Demonstrating its adaptability and forward-thinking approach, Rivier embraced coeducation in 1991, welcoming its first male undergraduate students, and officially evolved into Rivier University on July 1, 2012.

Today, Rivier University fosters a vibrant academic community, serving a diverse student body of over 2,200 individuals. Guided by the inspiring motto "Altiora et Meliora" (Higher and Better) and led by President Sister Paula Marie Buley, I.H.M., the university offers a comprehensive and engaging educational experience. With a rich legacy of adapting to meet evolving societal needs, Rivier cultivates an environment where students can excel academically, develop personally, and contribute meaningfully to the world, embodying its enduring commitment to higher achievement and a better future.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1933 by the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary.
  • ✦A private university dedicated to Catholic social teaching and serving the economically disadvantaged.
  • ✦Home to 2,238 students, offering both graduate and undergraduate programs.
  • ✦Embraced coeducation in 1991, welcoming its first male undergraduate students.
  • ✦Visited by Senator John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis in 1960.
  • ✦Motto: "Altiora et Meliora" (Higher and Better), reflecting a commitment to excellence and purpose.
  • ✦Renamed Rivier University in 2012, signifying its comprehensive educational offerings.

Timeline

1933
Founded as Rivier College by the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary.
1935
Incorporated and granted authority to offer graduate and undergraduate programs.
1941
Moved to its present campus location in Nashua, New Hampshire.
1960
Senator John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis visited the college.
1991
Became coeducational, admitting its first male undergraduate students.
2012
Renamed Rivier University on July 1.
🏛️
93 Years
of Excellence

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