Introduction:
Aquinas College, located in Nashville, Tennessee, is a small Catholic liberal arts college that provides a unique academic experience to its students. While it may not be as well-known as some of the larger universities in the area, Aquinas College has a lot to offer, including a rich history, a strong commitment to Catholic tradition, and a diverse student body. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about Aquinas College that you may not have known before.
1. The history of Aquinas College
Aquinas College was founded in 1961 by the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia Congregation, who wanted to establish a Catholic college for women in the Nashville area. The college opened its doors to students in 1962 and was originally located in the basement of St. Cecilia Motherhouse. In 1968, the college moved to its current location, which is a 83-acre campus in the heart of Nashville.
Over the years, Aquinas College has undergone many changes and has expanded its academic offerings. Today, the college offers over 25 undergraduate majors and minors, as well as graduate programs in education and nursing.
2. The unique academic experience
At Aquinas College, the academic experience is centered around the Catholic tradition, and students are encouraged to integrate their faith into their studies. The college’s core curriculum is based on the Catholic intellectual tradition and includes courses in theology, philosophy, and the humanities.
In addition to its core curriculum, Aquinas College offers a wide range of majors and minors in fields such as business, education, healthcare, and the sciences. Students also have the opportunity to participate in internships, research projects, and service learning activities.
3. The diverse student body
While Aquinas College is a Catholic institution, it welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds. The college has a diverse student body, with students from over 20 states and several countries. In addition, the college has a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and offers a variety of programs and initiatives to support all students.
4. The beautiful campus
Aquinas College’s campus is located in the heart of Nashville and features beautiful architecture and landscaping. The centerpiece of the campus is the historic mansion known as the “Castle,” which was built in 1853 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Castle is now used for offices and meeting spaces, and its elegant interior is often used for special events.
In addition to the Castle, Aquinas College’s campus features several other historic buildings, as well as modern facilities such as a state-of-the-art nursing simulation lab, a fitness center, and a performing arts center.
5. The extracurricular activities
Despite its small size, Aquinas College offers a variety of extracurricular activities for students to get involved in. The college has several student-run clubs and organizations, including a student government association, a campus ministry group, and a literary magazine.
Athletics are also an important part of campus life at Aquinas College, with several varsity sports teams competing in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). The college’s mascot is the Falcon, and the school colors are blue and gold.
6. The commitment to service
As a Catholic institution, Aquinas College has a strong commitment to service and social justice. The college encourages students to get involved in service projects and community outreach programs, both on and off campus.
The college’s campus ministry group offers a variety of service opportunities throughout the year, including mission trips, volunteer work at local organizations, and service projects during the college’s annual “Week of Service.”
Conclusion:
As we conclude our exploration of Aquinas College, Tennessee, we hope you enjoyed learning about some of the interesting and unique facts about this wonderful institution. From its impressive academic programs and student life, to its rich history and beautiful campus, Aquinas College has a lot to offer. Whether you’re a current student, an alum, or just someone interested in higher education, we hope this post has given you a glimpse into what makes Aquinas College truly special. So, next time you’re in the Nashville area, be sure to stop by and see this hidden gem for yourself.