Saint Anselm College

Nestled in New Hampshire, Saint Anselm College offers a unique educational journey rooted in its Benedictine heritage. Founded by monks from St. Mary's Abbey in Newark, New Jersey, it stands as the third Catholic college in New England, distinguished by a history of resilience and academic excellence. The college's establishment in 1889 by German Benedictines was a deliberate choice by Bishop Denis Mary Bradley, aiming to avoid ethnic tensions among the predominantly French Canadian and Irish immigrant mill workers in Manchester, thereby fostering a harmonious academic community.

From its early days, Saint Anselm was envisioned as a self-sufficient institution, boasting a vast 100-acre farm that provided for its needs. This commitment to self-reliance and community was further exemplified by the Studio of Christian Art, founded in 1893, which supplied paintings to Catholic churches throughout the region. Though it initially included a prestigious preparatory school for elite New England men, the institution later streamlined its focus to the college, closing the prep school in 1935 to support the college's expansion.

The college's history is intertwined with national events, notably its role in World War II where it served as a training ground for Army Aviation cadets, a testament to its commitment to service. In modern times, Saint Anselm College has become a pivotal stage for American democracy, playing a significant role in the New Hampshire presidential primary. Its campus frequently hosts presidential candidates and political figures, offering students an unparalleled front-row seat to the electoral process and fostering robust civic engagement. The establishment of the New Hampshire Institute of Politics in 2001 further solidifies its position as a hub for political discourse and education.

Under the leadership of its various presidents, including the longest-serving Jonathan DeFelice and current president Joseph A. Favazza, Saint Anselm College has navigated challenges, from the tumultuous 1960s to modern governance shifts. A recent agreement between the monastic community and the board of trustees ensures the college's enduring Catholic identity while empowering its operational board. This balance underscores Saint Anselm's commitment to both its foundational values and its progressive academic mission, creating an engaging and formative experience for its students.