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Saint Edward's University

Austin, TX

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Live Fully

1877
Founded
Private university
Type
3,309
Total Students
$142M
Endowment
(2024)
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

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

About Saint Edward's University

Austin's Holy Cross gem, St. Edward's empowers students to Live Fully.

Saint Edward's University, a private institution nestled in dynamic Austin, Texas, invites students to "Live Fully" through its rich academic and community life. Founded in 1877 by Edward Sorin, the visionary behind the University of Notre Dame, St. Edward's carries a proud legacy rooted in the Congregation of Holy Cross. With a vibrant student body of 3,309, it offers a distinctive educational journey combining tradition with modern innovation.

The university's story began as St. Edward's Academy, growing steadily into St. Edward's College and eventually earning its university charter in 1925. A testament to its enduring spirit, the iconic Main Building, designed in the Gothic Revival style, has been a campus centerpiece since 1889, remarkably rebuilt after a 1903 fire and a 1922 tornado, eventually earning a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. This resilient history underscores the university's commitment to its foundations.

St. Edward's embraced co-education in 1970 after absorbing Maryhill College, expanding access and diversifying its student experience. Over the decades, it has continually evolved its academic offerings, introducing innovative programs like the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP), a professionally oriented Theater Arts curriculum, New College for adult learners, and comprehensive Freshman Studies. With an endowment of $0.1 billion, Saint Edward's continues to invest in its future, fostering an engaging and supportive environment where students are encouraged to thrive academically and personally.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1877 by Edward Sorin, also founder of the University of Notre Dame.
  • Affiliated with the Congregation of Holy Cross, emphasizing a holistic education.
  • Iconic Gothic Revival Main Building listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • A private, co-educational university with 3,309 students.
  • Located in vibrant Austin, Texas, inspiring students to "Live Fully."
  • Offers diverse programs including CAMP, Theater Arts, and adult learning options.
  • Holds an endowment of $0.1 billion, supporting its educational mission.

Timeline

1877
Founded as St. Edward's Academy by Edward Sorin.
1885
Rechartered as St. Edward's College.
1889
Construction of the Main Building began, designed by Nicholas J. Clayton.
1925
Received its university charter, becoming St. Edward's University.
1966
Women began attending as students for Maryhill College.
1970
St. Edward's became co-educational after absorbing Maryhill College.
1973
Main Building added to the National Register of Historic Places.
1974
New College program for adult learners was established.
1984
Patricia Hayes became the second layperson to lead the university as president.
1990
Enrollment surpassed 3,000 students for the first time.
🏛️
149 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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