Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota stands as a testament to educational evolution, originating in 1912 as a men's college founded by Bishop Patrick Richard Heffron. Since 1933, it has been guided by the De La Salle Christian Brothers, a religious order deeply committed to teaching, shaping its distinct academic and community-focused ethos. The university made a significant leap in 1969 by becoming co-educational, and in 1995, it was renamed to Saint Mary's University of Minnesota, reflecting its greatly expanded graduate and professional programming.

Prospective students will discover a vibrant and continuously growing campus experience. The main Winona campus saw vigorous development throughout the 1980s and beyond, adding modern facilities such as the Ice Arena, Performance Center, numerous residence halls, and the Gostomski Fieldhouse. Recent additions, like the Brother Leopold Hall in 2012 and the Brother William freshmen residence hall in 2019, underscore a commitment to modern learning and living environments. The 2021 renovation of the Adducci science building into Aquinas Hall, now housing a new nursing program, highlights its dedication to contemporary academic offerings.

Academically, Saint Mary's is particularly strong in its graduate and professional studies. The Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs, launched by President Louis DeThomasis in 1985, has grown to be one of Minnesota's largest graduate schools. It serves a diverse student body through a variety of course delivery methods and locations, including campuses in the Twin Cities, Rochester, and other regional centers, fostering accessibility and flexibility for adult learners and working professionals. This robust infrastructure, combined with its Lasallian heritage, provides a nurturing and challenging environment for students pursuing both undergraduate and advanced degrees.