Saint Anselm College

Manchester, NH

private nonprofitgraduate

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Quick Facts

2,032

Total Students

$47K

Tuition (In-State)

$47K

Tuition (Out-State)

$35K

Avg Net Price

78%

Acceptance Rate

83%

Graduation Rate

6-year

90%

Retention Rate

Baccalaureate Colleges

Classification

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

About Saint Anselm College

A Benedictine legacy shaping leaders and presidential politics in New Hampshire.

Nestled in New Hampshire, Saint Anselm College offers a distinctive educational experience rooted in Benedictine tradition and intimately connected to American politics. Founded in 1889 by Benedictine monks, the college quickly established itself as the third Catholic institution of its kind in New England. From its inception, Saint Anselm has fostered a community dedicated to education, service, and spiritual growth, welcoming students into a vibrant academic environment.

Historically, the college aimed for self-sufficiency, boasting a sprawling 100-acre farm that contributed to its early independence. It once housed a prestigious preparatory school for elite New England men before focusing solely on its collegiate mission. During World War II, Saint Anselm played a crucial role in national defense, serving as a training ground for thousands of Army Aviation cadets, a testament to its adaptability and commitment to service. This rich history underscores a foundation built on hard work, community, and national engagement.

Today, Saint Anselm College is perhaps most renowned for its significant role in the New Hampshire presidential primary. Serving as a frequent platform for future presidents and candidates, the college offers students an unparalleled opportunity to witness democracy in action firsthand, especially through its New Hampshire Institute of Politics, founded in 2001. The college maintains a unique governance structure, with the Benedictine monks overseeing its mission and vision while a board of trustees manages daily operations, ensuring its Catholic identity and academic excellence endure for prospective students and their families.

Key Highlights

✦Founded in 1889 by Benedictine monks, becoming the third Catholic college in New England.
✦Plays a pivotal role in the New Hampshire presidential primary, hosting numerous candidates and events.
✦Historically operated a self-sufficient 100+ acre farm and a prestigious preparatory school.
✦Served as a vital training institution for Army Aviation cadets during World War II.
✦Home to the New Hampshire Institute of Politics, founded in 2001, enhancing political engagement.
✦Father Jonathan DeFelice was the longest-serving college president in New Hampshire, with 24 years of service.
✦Features a unique governance model with Benedictine monks overseeing mission and vision, and a board managing operations.

Timeline

1889

The New Hampshire legislature approved the incorporation of the Order of Saint Benedict, marking the founding of Saint Anselm College.

1893

College dedication held; Bonaventure Ostendarp founded the Studio of Christian Art.

1895

The New Hampshire legislature granted Saint Anselm College the right to bestow academic degrees.

1935

The monks decided to close the preparatory school to allow for college expansion.

1942

Saint Anselm College became an institution for training Army Aviation cadets during WWII.

1950

The college began playing a significant role in the New Hampshire presidential primary.

1970

Final exams were made optional in support of students after the Kent State shootings.

2001

The New Hampshire Institute of Politics was founded.

2019

Joseph A. Favazza began his tenure as the 11th president of Saint Anselm.

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