Introduction:
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is a Catholic liberal arts college located in Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana, in the United States. The college is renowned for its rich history, commitment to community service, and academic excellence. Founded in 1840 by Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College has a storied past filled with interesting facts that make it a unique and special place. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College that you may not have known before.
The Oldest Catholic College for Women in the United States
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is the oldest Catholic college for women in the United States. It was founded by Saint Mother Theodore Guerin in 1840 and was originally established as a school for young women in the area. Over the years, the college has grown to become a fully accredited liberal arts college offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is also the first Catholic college in the United States to offer distance education, with the establishment of the Woods External Degree in 1973. This program allows adult learners to earn a degree through independent study and distance education. The college is also home to the Women’s Leadership Program, which was established in 1995 to provide leadership development opportunities for undergraduate women.
A Unique Campus with Rich History
The Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College campus is unique and has a rich history that is visible in the architecture and design of the buildings. The campus is home to several historic buildings, including Le Fer Hall, built in 1899 and named after Saint Mother Theodore Guerin’s birthplace in France. The building features a beautiful chapel and houses the Department of Education and the Department of Music.
Another historic building on campus is Hulman Hall, built in 1903 and named after Terre Haute businessman Anton Hulman, who was a benefactor of the college. The building is home to the Department of English, as well as the Hulman Memorial Student Union, which provides a space for students to gather, study, and socialize.
The Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College campus is also home to the Shrine of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, which was built in 1907 and is a popular destination for pilgrims and visitors. The shrine features a beautiful statue of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin and serves as a reminder of the college’s rich history and the vision of its founder.
A Strong Commitment to Sustainability and Community Service
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College has a strong commitment to sustainability and community service, which is evident in its many initiatives and programs. The college has a Sustainability Committee, which works to promote sustainable practices on campus and in the community. The college has also implemented several energy conservation measures, including the installation of energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems.
The college also has a strong commitment to community service and is involved in a wide range of service projects and initiatives. The college’s Service Learning Program requires all students to complete a minimum of 40 hours of community service before graduation. The college also hosts several service events throughout the year, including the Day of Service, which brings together students, faculty, and staff to participate in community service projects.
In addition to its commitment to community service, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is also committed to promoting social justice and diversity. The college’s Office of Multicultural Services provides support and resources for students from diverse backgrounds and promotes cultural awareness and understanding.
Notable Alumnae and Faculty
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College has produced many notable alumnae and faculty over the years. Some of the college’s most famous alumnae include Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, the founder of the college, who was canonized by the Catholic Church in 2006. Another famous alumna is Sister Mary Joseph Dempsey, who was the first woman to serve on the board of directors of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
The college has also had several notable faculty members, including Sister Mary Annunciata, who taught at the college for over 50 years and was known for her expertise in classical languages. Another notable faculty member is Sister Marie Brendan Harvey, who was a professor of art at the college and was known for her work as a sculptor and painter.
Unique Traditions and Events
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is known for its unique traditions and events that help to build a sense of community and connection among students, faculty, and staff. One of the most beloved traditions is Ring Day, which takes place during the junior year and is a celebration of the college’s history and tradition. During Ring Day, students receive their class rings and participate in a ceremony that includes the passing of the Saint Mother Theodore Guerin candle.
Another popular event is Woods Olympics, which takes place during the fall semester and is a competition between the residence halls on campus. The event includes a series of challenges and activities designed to build teamwork and camaraderie among the students.
The college also hosts several events throughout the year, including the Madrigal Dinner, which is a festive celebration of the holiday season that features a medieval-themed feast and live entertainment. The college also hosts an annual Women’s Wellness Weekend, which provides women with opportunities to participate in workshops and activities focused on health and wellness.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is a unique and special place with a rich history, strong commitment to community service and sustainability, and many notable alumnae and faculty members. The college’s traditions and events help to build a sense of community and connection among students, faculty, and staff, and make it a beloved institution among those who have had the opportunity to be a part of it. If you are interested in learning more about Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, we encourage you to visit the campus and see for yourself what makes it such a special place.