Introduction
Ursuline College is a small, private liberal arts college located in Pepper Pike, Ohio, just outside of Cleveland. Founded in 1871, Ursuline College has a rich history and has been providing quality education to students for over 150 years. While many people may not know much about this hidden gem of a college, there are plenty of fun and interesting facts to discover about Ursuline College. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most fascinating tidbits about Ursuline College.
The Ursuline Sisters
One of the most unique aspects of Ursuline College is its founding by the Ursuline Sisters, a Roman Catholic religious order. The Ursuline Sisters have a long history of educating young women, and they founded Ursuline College in order to continue their mission of providing quality education to women. Today, Ursuline College still retains its ties to the Ursuline Sisters, and the college’s mission is grounded in the Ursuline tradition of holistic education, which emphasizes the development of the whole person: mind, body, and spirit.
One interesting fact about the Ursuline Sisters is that they have a strong history of advocating for women’s rights. In the early 1900s, the Ursuline Sisters were instrumental in helping women gain the right to vote in Ohio. The Ursuline Sisters also played a key role in founding the Women’s City Club of Cleveland, which provided a forum for women to discuss issues of importance to them and advocate for their rights.
In addition to their advocacy work, the Ursuline Sisters have also been involved in a number of other notable activities throughout their history. For example, during World War II, the Ursuline Sisters opened their doors to Jewish refugees, providing them with shelter and support. The Ursuline Sisters also established a number of schools and other educational institutions throughout Ohio and other parts of the country.
The Breen School of Nursing
Another interesting aspect of Ursuline College is its Breen School of Nursing. The Breen School of Nursing is known for its innovative programs and its commitment to providing quality nursing education. The school offers a range of programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees in nursing, as well as certificate programs and continuing education opportunities.
One unique feature of the Breen School of Nursing is its simulation lab, which provides students with hands-on experience in a variety of different medical scenarios. The simulation lab is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including high-fidelity manikins that can simulate a range of different medical conditions and scenarios. This allows students to practice their skills in a safe and controlled environment before they begin working with real patients.
Another interesting fact about the Breen School of Nursing is its commitment to global health. The school offers a number of international study opportunities for nursing students, allowing them to gain experience working in different cultural contexts and learning about global health issues. The Breen School of Nursing has also been involved in a number of global health initiatives, including providing health care services to underserved communities in countries such as Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
The Ralph M. Besse Library
The Ralph M. Besse Library is another interesting aspect of Ursuline College. The library is named after Ralph M. Besse, a former president of the Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company, who was a major supporter of the college. The library houses over 150,000 volumes, including books, periodicals, and multimedia materials.
One unique feature of the Ralph M. Besse Library is its collection of rare books and manuscripts. The library’s rare book collection includes a number of important works, such as a first edition of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” and a rare copy of William Shakespeare’s “First Folio.” The library’s manuscript collection includes documents dating back to the 15th century, such as illuminated manuscripts, letters, and diaries.
In addition to its impressive collection of rare books and manuscripts, the Ralph M. Besse Library also offers a number of other resources and services for students. The library has a dedicated research help desk, where students can receive assistance with their research projects. The library also offers a range of study spaces, including individual study carrels, group study rooms, and a quiet reading room.
The Arts at Ursuline College
Ursuline College is also known for its strong arts programs, including its music and theatre programs. The college has a number of performance spaces, including the Black Box Theatre, which is used for smaller, more intimate performances, and the Dale E. and Ruth E. Galvin Fine Arts Center, which is used for larger performances and events.
One interesting fact about the music program at Ursuline College is that it offers a degree in music therapy. Music therapy is a growing field that uses music to help individuals improve their physical, emotional, and cognitive health. The music therapy program at Ursuline College provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to become licensed music therapists.
The theatre program at Ursuline College is also known for its innovative productions and talented performers. The program offers a range of courses in acting, directing, and playwriting, as well as opportunities for students to participate in productions both on and off stage. The college’s annual spring musical is a highlight of the theatre season and always draws large crowds.
The Campus and Facilities
Ursuline College’s campus is located on 100 acres of wooded land in Pepper Pike, Ohio. The campus includes a number of historic buildings, as well as newer, more modern facilities. One interesting fact about the campus is that it is home to the Parker Hannifin Center for Environmental Science and Engineering, which is dedicated to research and education in the fields of environmental science and engineering.
Another unique aspect of Ursuline College’s campus is its commitment to sustainability. The college has implemented a number of sustainability initiatives in recent years, including a recycling program, energy-efficient lighting, and a campus garden. The college also offers a sustainability minor, which allows students to learn about sustainable practices and how they can be applied in a variety of different fields.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ursuline College is a fascinating institution with a rich history and a strong commitment to education, advocacy, and sustainability. From its founding by the Ursuline Sisters to its innovative nursing and arts programs, there is much to discover and appreciate about Ursuline College. Whether you are a student, alumna, or simply someone interested in learning more about this hidden gem of a college, there is no shortage of fun and interesting facts to explore.
