Founded 155 years ago in the interest of promoting Catholic-Franciscan education, the University continues to this day to pursue academic excellence through personalized attention that reflects the Franciscan tradition of valuing human relationships. We instill in students a real passion for learning and living. We encourage independent study, critical analysis and original expression. Our professors are committed and approachable faculty who dedicate themselves to making connections - among themselves, their courses and, most importantly, their students.