Saint Francis University

Loretto, PA

private nonprofitgraduate

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Quick Facts

Wikipedia

1847

Founded

Private university

Type

1,525

Total Students

1,562

Undergrad

396

Graduate

$67M

Endowment

(2025)

$42K

Tuition (In-State)

$42K

Tuition (Out-State)

$19K

Avg Net Price

77%

Acceptance Rate

73%

Graduation Rate

6-year

88%

Retention Rate

Master's Colleges & Universities

Classification

President: Malachi Van Tassell

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

About Saint Francis University

Discover Saint Francis University: a pioneering Franciscan and co-educational Catholic institution since 1847.

Nestled in the historic heart of Loretto, Pennsylvania, Saint Francis University stands as a testament to pioneering spirit and enduring faith. Founded in 1847 by six dedicated Franciscan teaching Brothers from Ireland, SFU holds the distinction of being the nation's first Franciscan college. It quickly established itself as a beacon of learning, growing from its humble beginnings as Saint Francis Academy to become one of the earliest Catholic universities in the United States.

The university's roots are deeply intertwined with the region's Catholic heritage, situated on land provided by Bishop Michael O'Connor in Loretto – the very site of the first English-language Roman Catholic settlement west of the Allegheny Front, established in 1799. This rich historical backdrop provides a unique and inspiring environment for students, fostering a community built on the Franciscan values of compassion, service, and respect for all.

Saint Francis University has consistently demonstrated a forward-thinking approach to education. A remarkable stride came in 1948 when it amended its charter to become co-educational, making it one of the first Catholic universities in the nation to welcome both men and women. This commitment to inclusivity and comprehensive education continued its evolution, culminating in its formal renaming to Saint Francis University in 2001, marking a new chapter in its distinguished history. For prospective students and families, SFU offers an engaging academic experience within a supportive community, grounded in a legacy of innovation and purpose.

Key Highlights

✦Founded in 1847 by six Franciscan teaching Brothers, making it the nation's first Franciscan college.
✦One of the first Catholic universities in the United States and a pioneer in co-education, welcoming women in 1948.
✦Rooted in Loretto, Pennsylvania, the site of the first English-language Roman Catholic settlement west of the Allegheny Front.
✦Evolved from an academy to Saint Francis College, then formally renamed Saint Francis University in 2001.
✦Operates as a private university with an endowment of $0.1 billion, supporting its educational mission.

Timeline

1799

First English-language Roman Catholic settlement established in Loretto by Demetrius Augustine Gallitzin.

1847

Established by six Franciscan teaching Brothers from Mountbellew, Ireland.

1850

Saint Francis Academy opens on September 2.

1860

Becomes popularly known as Saint Francis College.

1911

Designation of Saint Francis College formally adopted by law.

1948

Amends its charter to become co-educational, one of the first Catholic universities to do so.

2000

Approved by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to become a university.

2001

Formally renamed "Saint Francis University" on January 1.

🏛️

179 Years

of Excellence

Leadership

via Wikipedia

Malachi Van Tassell

President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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