University of St. Thomas

Amidst the bustling cityscapes of Minneapolis and St. Paul, the University of St. Thomas stands as a beacon of knowledge and faith. The University of St. Thomas, often called UST or St. Thomas, isn’t just an educational institution. It’s a living testament to the transformative power of education, woven into the very fabric of these twin cities. Founded in 1885 by Archbishop John Ireland, the University of St. Thomas initially served as a Catholic seminary for men. Its namesake, St. Thomas Aquinas, the patron saint of students, reflects the university’s deep-rooted commitment to Catholic intellectual tradition. Imagine the year 1894, a pivotal moment when railroad tycoon James J. Hill’s generosity allowed the liberal arts program to flourish independently. This marked the beginning of the University of St. Thomas’s journey from a seminary to a comprehensive university. The campus, originally a farm far removed from the city’s heart, now sits at the intersection of St. Paul’s historic Summit Avenue and the Mississippi River. Picture young men in military uniforms on campus. From 1906 to 1922, St. Thomas was officially recognized as a military school by the U.S. War Department. Even during World War II, the university played a crucial role, serving as a training ground for naval officers. In the aftermath of the war, “Tom Town” emerged on campus. These barracks-style huts provided much-needed housing for returning students and faculty. The University of St. Thomas embraced co-education in 1977. This marked a significant shift in the university’s demographics and culture. The University of St. Thomas expanded its reach by opening a Minneapolis campus in 1991. This expansion broadened the university’s presence and allowed it to serve a larger student population. The Minneapolis campus now houses the Opus College of Business, adorned with a magnificent fresco depicting the seven virtues as described by St. Thomas Aquinas himself. Today, the University of St. Thomas has blossomed into Minnesota’s largest private, non-profit university. With over 9,000 students, it continues to uphold its commitment to academic excellence and Catholic values.