University of Mary

The University of Mary, a private institution with a rich Benedictine heritage and the inspiring motto "Lumen Vitae" (The Light of Life), offers a distinctive educational journey. Founded in 1959, it stands as a testament to pioneering spirit, blending profound spiritual values with a commitment to academic excellence. Its unique campus architecture, influenced by the renowned Marcel Breuer, makes it an institution unlike any other.

The university's story begins long before its official founding, tracing back to 1878 when Benedictine sisters established a boarding school in Bismarck, Dakota Territory. This foundational act laid the groundwork for a legacy of care and education, evolving to include the establishment of St. Alexius Hospital in 1885 and its integral College of Nursing in 1915. The sisters' dedication to serving their community became the bedrock upon which the future university would be built.

A pivotal moment arrived in the 1950s when the Annunciation Priory commissioned Bauhaus architect Marcel Breuer to design new buildings. Captivated by the landscape and mission, Breuer's designs — utilizing native granite, complex concrete shapes, and dramatic interplay of light and shadow — gave Mary College its distinct modernist prairie aesthetic upon its founding as a women's college in 1959. This architectural vision continued to shape the growing campus, even as new programs and structures emerged.

Today, with nearly 4,000 students, the University of Mary remains committed to its founding principles, offering an engaging student experience guided by its Benedictine values. Prospective students and families will discover a vibrant community that nurtures intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and a strong sense of purpose, all within a beautifully designed environment that reflects its enduring motto, "The Light of Life."