University of Saint Mary

The University of Saint Mary, rooted in the values of the Sisters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul, offers a rich educational experience steeped in history and community. What began as a dedicated endeavor to educate young women in 1858 has blossomed into a comprehensive co-educational university, known for its commitment to service and adapting to the evolving needs of its students. Prospective students will find an institution with a deep sense of purpose, guiding them toward academic excellence and personal growth.

The university's storied past began in Leavenworth, Kansas, where the Sisters of Charity founded St. Mary's Institute in 1859. This pioneering spirit continued as it evolved, moving to its present location in 1870 and being renamed St. Mary's Academy. A significant milestone arrived in 1923 with the establishment of Saint Mary College, which became a four-year institution in 1932, notably accepting men in specific fields. This progressive approach culminated in 1988 when the college became residentially coeducational, marking its full transition into a more inclusive learning environment.

University of Saint Mary has also been an innovator in educational delivery, notably becoming the first four-year institution in 1974 to offer a degree completion program in Kansas City, making higher education more accessible. Further expanding its reach, a campus was opened in Overland Park, Kansas, in 2000, illustrating its ongoing commitment to serving a broader student population. Its journey from a women's academy to the University of Saint Mary in 2003 reflects a consistent dedication to growth, academic opportunity, and fostering a supportive student experience grounded in its historical mission.