Did you know that Marianopolis College has moved locations several times. Marianopolis College stands as a testament to Montreal’s rich educational history. It embodies a humanist vision of education. This vision emphasizes the dignity of the individual. It values each human being. It promotes lifelong learning.
Let’s step back in time. The roots of Marianopolis College trace back to 1658. Marguerite Bourgeoys founded Montreal’s first school. It was in an abandoned stone stable. Fast forward to 1908. Sister Saint Anne Marie established the College. It was the first higher education institution for Catholic women in Quebec. The French sector was named l’École d’Enseignement supérieur. The English sector was named Notre Dame Ladies’ College.
In 1911, the College conferred its first Bachelor of Arts degrees. This was through an affiliation with Université Laval. By 1926, it was renamed Marguerite Bourgeoys College. It then moved to 4873 Westmount Avenue. J.O. Marchand designed it. He was a prominent Quebec architect. He also created the Montreal Municipal Courthouse. He designed the Quebec National Assembly. He contributed to the Peace Tower of the Parliament of Canada.
During World War II in 1944, the College relocated. It went to the corner of Guy Street and Dorchester Boulevard. This building once housed Mount Saint Mary Convent. Before that, it was St. Patrick’s Hospital. Its English sector’s curriculum was renamed Marianopolis. It reorganized along the lines of English-language universities. Science programs were included. A devastating fire in 1945 caused Marianopolis to move again. This time it was to 3647 Peel Street.
Marianopolis granted its first Bachelor of Science degrees in 1947. Sweeping changes in post-secondary education came in 1969. Marianopolis phased out its university programs. It introduced CEGEP-equivalent programs. It began admitting male students. A partnership with McGill University’s Faculty of Music also began.
In 1975, Marianopolis moved to 3880 Cote des Neiges. The priests of St Sulpice owned it. In 2007, Marianopolis returned to the historic building at 4873 Westmount Avenue. The Congrégation de Notre-Dame owned it. The campus facilities were modernized. A double gymnasium was built underground. In 2008, the College celebrated 100 years.
The College began transitioning to a lay administration in 2009. The first director general from outside the Congregation was hired. In 2017, Marianopolis established an accord with Sakura no Seibo Junior College in Fukushima, Japan. This provided opportunities for educational enrichment and cultural exchange. The College completed its largest renovation project in 2019. Modern safety features were added. Teaching, learning and working spaces were upgraded.
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Marianopolis offered online classes and services. In 2021, the College reflected on its heritage and relationship with Indigenous communities. In 2024, the College purchased the land and buildings at 4873 Westmount Avenue. It became the owner of the historic property.
The Marianopolis College crest embodies its history. The open book symbolizes education. The monogram AM stands for “Auspice Maria.” It means “under the guidance of Mary”. The walled city signifies Ville-Marie or Marianopolis. The star and crescent are from the seal of the Congrégation de Notre-Dame. The wavy band with diamonds adapts the Archdiocese of Montreal’s coat of arms.
Today, Marianopolis stands as a distinguished pre-university college. It welcomes students of all faiths. Its curriculum and school experience are secular. The college continues to evolve while honoring its rich history. It prepares students for future success.