University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne

The University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne offers a distinctive academic journey, deeply rooted in the enduring educational values and spiritual traditions of the Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration. As a private university, USF is celebrated for its vibrant community spirit and remarkable growth, especially through its robust athletic programs and comprehensive health professions. It provides a nurturing yet challenging environment, fostering both academic excellence and personal development within the bustling city of Fort Wayne.

USF's compelling history began modestly in Lafayette, Indiana, in 1890, as the Saint Francis Normal School, established with the noble purpose of enhancing teacher training for parochial schools. The institution steadily evolved, first becoming a junior college, then a four-year school by 1937, and formally taking the name Saint Francis College in 1940. A pivotal moment arrived in 1944 when the college relocated to its picturesque and expansive Fort Wayne campus, establishing its permanent home on the historic estate of industrialist John H. Bass, which marked the beginning of a new era of expansion and deeper community integration.

Demonstrating a continuous commitment to academic advancement, USF expanded its offerings significantly with the introduction of a graduate school in 1960. The 1990s were a period of explosive growth, driven notably by the success of its increased athletic programs, particularly the popular Cougars football, and the strategic acquisition of the Lutheran College of Health Professions, which solidified its academic prowess in vital healthcare fields. This era of expansion also saw the construction of modern residence halls and athletic facilities, cultivating a lively and engaging student experience that perfectly balances rigorous academics with a robust campus life, all designed to prepare students for successful careers and lives of service and leadership.