Salve Regina University

Nestled on an breathtaking 80-acre coastal campus in historic Newport, Rhode Island, Salve Regina University offers a distinctive private Roman Catholic education. Founded in 1934 by the Sisters of Mercy, the university's campus is a true marvel, seamlessly blending academic pursuits with the grandeur of seven contiguous Gilded Age estates, including 21 structures of historic significance that border the iconic Newport Cliff Walk.

Originally chartered to "promote virtue, and piety and learning," Salve Regina has evolved significantly since its founding. Beginning as a women's college that welcomed its first class in 1947, it embraced coeducation in 1973 and expanded its academic offerings with graduate programs in 1975. The institution achieved university status in 1991, marked by a period of robust growth in majors and student population under its longest-serving president, Lucille McKillop, and has been consistently recognized for its exceptional work in historic preservation and sensitive adaptation of its unique campus buildings.

Academically, the university fosters an environment dedicated to intellectual and personal growth. A key academic strength is the Pell Center for International Relations and Public Policy, offering students unique opportunities for engagement and research. Beyond the classroom, Salve Regina cultivates a vibrant student experience. The university is a proud member of NCAA Division III, with a significant 18% of its student body actively participating in intercollegiate athletics, fostering a strong sense of community and teamwork.

Students at Salve Regina benefit from a picturesque setting combined with a commitment to environmental stewardship, evidenced by its Tree Campus USA designation and accreditation as a Level II arboretum. This unique blend of historical grandeur, Catholic tradition, academic innovation, and a lively student life creates an inspiring and engaging environment for learning and discovery.