Founded in 1905 St. Catherine University stands proudly. It began as the College of St. Catherine one of the first institutions of higher learning for women in the Midwest. Imagine the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet their vision shaping this institution. They named it after St Catherine of Alexandria a fourth-century Egyptian philosopher. Her martyrdom for her faith inspires the university’s spirit.
Derham Hall opened in 1905. It was a significant milestone. Hugh Derham’s generous $20000 donation made it possible. The building housed both high school and college students. The high school later merged with Cretin High School forming Cretin-Derham Hall High School. Bachelor of Arts degrees were first conferred in 1913. Full accreditation followed in 1917.
During World War II St. Catherine’s expanded its nursing programs. A critical nursing shortage existed. The university partnered with St Joseph’s and St Mary’s hospitals. They also worked with the US Cadet Nursing Corps providing financial aid. Over 170 St Catherine alumnae served in military hospitals.
St Catherine’s initially focused solely on women. It later expanded to include graduate and associate programs for both women and men. Today St Catherine’s boasts approximately 5000 students annually. It actively recruits minority and non-traditional students. Its Weekend College now the College for Adults was among the nation’s first such programs. It was a pioneer in attracting and retaining Hmong students creating a significant Hmong scholar population.
In 2009 the College of St Catherine officially became St Catherine University. Derham Hall and Our Lady of Victory Chapel are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The university offers numerous programs across various schools including the College for Women the Graduate College and the College for Adults. The schools of Humanities Arts and Sciences Business Henrietta Schmoll School of Health and Nursing provide a vast array of academic options.
St Catherine’s commitment to its mission continues. It provides a supportive environment for students. Its legacy of educating women extends beyond the classroom. The university’s enduring spirit thrives. It welcomes diverse students seeking intellectual growth. It remains a unique and significant part of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.