In 1895 Mother Florence Walter envisioned a beautiful Gothic chapel. This vision materialized on August 14 1895 when construction began on Our Lady of the Lake University’s Main Building. Today you stand before this very building a testament to that enduring dream.
Our Lady of the Lake University isn’t just a university. It’s a living legacy. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence it’s a place where faith and learning intertwine. This private Catholic university started as a high school in 1896. It blossomed into a two-year college in 1911. The first student Rosalie McNelly later became a Sister of Divine Providence herself.
Our Lady of the Lake University was a pioneer. It was the first San Antonio institution of higher education to receive regional accreditation in 1923. This recognition solidified its commitment to academic excellence. It became coeducational in 1969 embracing a progressive spirit. It even hosted a historic US Commission on Civil Rights hearing in 1968 a pivotal moment in the fight for civil rights.
The university’s history isn’t without its challenges. A devastating four-alarm fire in 2008 ravaged the Main Building. Yet the community rallied. They rebuilt. Today the restored building stands as a symbol of resilience. Our Lady of the Lake University continues to evolve. It now offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees even doctoral programs. It has satellite campuses in The Woodlands and the Rio Grande Valley expanding its reach.
Our Lady of the Lake University’s athletic teams the Saints compete in the NAIA. They’ve achieved remarkable success. The softball team even won the school’s first NAIA national championship in 2024 a significant milestone. The campus itself boasts stunning architecture. The Sacred Heart Conventual Chapel designed by Leo M J Dielmann is a masterpiece. The University Wellness and Activities Center provides ample facilities for students.
More than just brick and mortar Our Lady of the Lake University is a vibrant community. It has a rich history of student life. Numerous clubs and organizations thrive on campus creating a sense of belonging. The university archives preserve its heritage for future generations to learn from. As you explore the campus remember you are walking through history. You are walking through a place where dreams are nurtured and futures are forged. You are at Our Lady of the Lake University a place where faith learning and community unite.