Founded in 1904 as Loyola College Loyola University New Orleans stands proudly before you. A Jesuit institution its history is rich with stories of faith perseverance and academic excellence.
Father Albert Biever a young Jesuit priest was given a nickel for streetcar fare. He was tasked by his superiors to find a location uptown for a new university. This is the incredible origin story of Loyola University New Orleans. The first classes were held in a residence behind Most Holy Name of Jesus Church. Its early years saw rapid growth. The university expanded adding a School of Law a School of Dentistry and a College of Pharmacy within the first decade.
Loyola University New Orleans also boasts a remarkable first. It transmitted the first radio broadcast in the Deep South. This happened in 1922 when WWL began operation as a laboratory experiment. The university’s growth continued throughout the decades. New buildings arose accommodating a growing student population. The iconic Marquette Hall completed in 1910 remains a central landmark today.
However Loyola’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. The closing of the College of Pharmacy in 1965 and the School of Dentistry in 1971 marked a shift in the university’s focus. Hurricane Katrina in 2005 posed a significant threat. The campus sustained minimal damage but the city’s devastation forced the cancellation of classes for the fall semester. Despite this setback Loyola’s resilience shone through. Classes resumed in the spring of 2006. Remarkably 91 percent of undergraduate students returned.
Today Loyola University New Orleans thrives as a vibrant hub of learning and community engagement. Its Jesuit tradition emphasizes service justice and intellectual curiosity. The university’s enduring legacy is a testament to its founding principles and the unwavering spirit of those who have shaped its history. Explore its beautiful campus discover its many achievements. Experience the remarkable story of Loyola University New Orleans.