Introduction
Barry University is a private, Catholic university located in Miami, Florida. Established in 1940, the university has a rich history and a strong commitment to academic excellence and community service. Over the years, Barry has become known for its diverse student body, exceptional faculty, and innovative programs. In this post, we will explore some fun facts about Barry University that you may not have known.
Fun facts about Barry University
A Brief History of Barry University
Barry University was founded by the Adrian Dominican Sisters as Barry College in 1940. The school was named after Mother Mary Gerald Barry, who was the first prioress of the Adrian Dominican Sisters. Originally a women’s college, Barry became coeducational in 1974. Today, Barry University is one of the largest Catholic universities in the Southeastern United States, with over 7,000 students enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
One interesting fact about Barry’s history is that it was one of the first universities in the United States to establish a School of Professional And Career Education (PACE) in 1974. PACE was designed to provide non-traditional students with access to higher education, and has since become a leader in online education, offering a wide range of degree and certificate programs.
Another notable event in Barry’s history was the visit of Pope John Paul II in 1987. During his visit, the pope addressed a crowd of over 200,000 people at Tamiami Park, located just a few miles from the university. Barry was the only Catholic university in the United States that Pope John Paul II visited during his trip.
Notable Alumni and Faculty
Barry University has a long list of notable alumni and faculty members who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. One of the most well-known alumni is Dwyane Wade, a former NBA player who won three championships with the Miami Heat. Wade attended Barry for two years before transferring to Marquette University, but has remained connected to the university over the years, and even donated $50,000 to the school’s athletic department in 2019.
Another notable alumna is Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, who graduated from Barry College in 1961 with a degree in biology. Sister Jean went on to become the chaplain of the Loyola University Chicago men’s basketball team, and gained national attention during the team’s run to the Final Four in 2018. At the age of 98, Sister Jean is still going strong and is an inspiration to many.
In terms of faculty, one of Barry’s most distinguished professors is Dr. Linda DeMeritt, who is a Fulbright Scholar and an expert in the field of international relations. Dr. DeMeritt has written numerous articles and books on the subject, and has served as a consultant to the U.S. Department of State and the United Nations. She is also a founding member of the International Studies Association and has received numerous awards for her contributions to the field.
Campus Life and Community Service
Barry University has a vibrant campus life, with over 60 student organizations and clubs to choose from. The university also has a strong commitment to community service, and offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in volunteer work. One of the most popular service programs at Barry is the “Alternative Spring Break” program, which sends students to various locations across the country to engage in service projects during their spring break.
In addition to its commitment to community service, Barry is also known for its beautiful campus. The university is located on 122 acres in the heart of Miami Shores, and features lush gardens, a reflecting pool, and several historic buildings. One of the most iconic buildings on campus is Cor Jesu Chapel, which was built in 1965 and features stunning stained-glass windows and a beautiful altar. The chapel is open to students and the community for daily mass and other religious services.
Another unique aspect of campus life at Barry is the presence of a colony of wild peacocks that roam the campus grounds. These colorful birds have become a beloved part of the Barry community, and are often seen perched on tree branches or strutting along the sidewalks. Students and visitors alike enjoy taking photos of the peacocks and sharing them on social media.
Sports and Athletics
Barry University has a strong tradition of athletics, with 12 varsity sports teams competing at the NCAA Division II level. One of the most successful sports programs at Barry is men’s soccer, which has won three national championships and consistently ranks among the top teams in the country. The university also has successful women’s basketball and volleyball programs, as well as a nationally-ranked men’s tennis team.
In addition to its varsity sports teams, Barry offers a wide range of intramural and club sports for students to participate in. These include everything from flag football and dodgeball to yoga and Zumba classes. The university also has a state-of-the-art fitness center that is open to all students, faculty, and staff.
Another interesting fact about Barry’s athletic program is that the university was the first in the country to establish a women’s soccer team in 1976. The team has since become one of the most successful programs in the country, winning several national championships and producing numerous All-Americans and Olympic players.
Innovative Programs and Research
Barry University is known for its innovative programs and research initiatives that aim to address some of the most pressing issues facing society today. One such program is the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, which is ranked among the top programs in the country. The program focuses on preparing students to provide occupational therapy services to underserved populations and has a strong emphasis on community engagement and service.
Another innovative program at Barry is the Center for Earth Jurisprudence, which is dedicated to promoting the rights of nature and advocating for a more sustainable relationship between humans and the environment. The center works with legal scholars, policymakers, and activists to develop new approaches to environmental law and policy, and hosts a wide range of events and workshops to promote environmental awareness and advocacy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Barry University has a rich history, a diverse student body, and a strong commitment to academic excellence and community service. From its innovative programs and research initiatives to its successful athletic programs and beautiful campus, there is much to be proud of at Barry. Whether you are a student, an alum, or simply a fan of the university, there is no denying the impact that Barry has had on the Miami community and beyond.