Introduction
Carlow University is a private Catholic University situated in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1929 and has since then become a hub for academic excellence and innovation. The university boasts a rich history, with several fun facts that are worth noting. In this article, we’ll explore some of the exciting things you probably didn’t know about Carlow University.

Carlow University’s Unique Name
Have you ever wondered how Carlow University got its name? The institution was named after Carlow, a town in Ireland. The university’s founders were Irish-American Sisters of Mercy who named it after their hometown. The sisters came to the United States in the late 19th century to establish educational institutions, and Carlow University is one of the many legacies they left behind.
Carlow University’s unique name has become a point of pride for the institution. The university has strong ties to Ireland, and many of its students, faculty, and alumni trace their roots to the Emerald Isle. Carlow University has established a study abroad program in Ireland, and every year, students have the opportunity to spend a semester or summer in the country.
The First-Ever Women’s Basketball Game
Carlow University has a long history of women’s athletics, and the institution is known for its pioneering spirit. In 1903, the university hosted the first-ever women’s basketball game. The game was played between the freshmen and sophomore classes and was a resounding success. It is said that the game was so popular that it drew a crowd of over 600 spectators.
Since then, Carlow University has continued to lead the way in women’s athletics. The university has a rich tradition in basketball and has produced several notable players over the years. The Carlow Celtics women’s basketball team has won several championships and has become a source of pride for the institution.
Carlow University’s Campus
Carlow University’s campus is located in the Oakland neighborhood of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The campus spans over 13 acres and has several historic buildings that have been meticulously preserved over the years. The university’s main building, St. Agnes Center, is a beautiful example of Georgian architecture and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
In recent years, Carlow University has invested heavily in campus development. The university has built several new buildings, including the A.J. Palumbo Hall of Science and Technology and the University Commons, a state-of-the-art student center. Carlow University’s campus has become a hub for academic and social activity, with students and faculty alike enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
The Carlow Chronicle
The Carlow Chronicle is the university’s student-run newspaper. It was first published in 1936 and has since then become an integral part of campus life. The newspaper covers a wide range of topics, including campus news, sports, and entertainment.
The Carlow Chronicle is run entirely by students, with an editorial staff that is elected each year. The newspaper has won several awards over the years and is a testament to the university’s commitment to student journalism. The Carlow Chronicle has become a platform for students to voice their opinions and share their experiences, making it an essential part of the Carlow University experience.
Carlow University’s Mascot
Carlow University’s mascot is the Celtics. The mascot was chosen to reflect the university’s Irish heritage and its commitment to academic and athletic excellence. The Celtics are represented by a leprechaun, who can be seen at many of the university’s sporting events. The Carlow Celtics have a rich tradition in athletics, with a strong focus on women’s sports.
Carlow University’s Community Service
Carlow University has a strong commitment to community service and social justice. The university encourages its students, faculty, and staff to get involved in service projects both on and off-campus. The university has established partnerships with several community organizations, including the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and Habitat for Humanity.
Carlow University’s commitment to community service is reflected in its curriculum. The university offers several courses that focus on service-learning and community engagement. These courses allow students to apply their academic knowledge to real-world situations, providing them with a unique learning experience.
Carlow University’s Diversity
Carlow University has a diverse student body, with students from all over the world. The university’s commitment to diversity is reflected in its curriculum, which includes courses that explore issues of race, ethnicity, and gender. The university also offers several programs and initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion on campus.
In recent years, Carlow University has been recognized for its commitment to diversity. The university has been named a “Diversity Champion” by Insight Into Diversity magazine and has received several awards for its work in promoting diversity and inclusion.
Carlow University’s Leadership Programs
Carlow University offers several leadership programs for its students. These programs are designed to develop students’ leadership skills and prepare them for success in their future careers. The university’s Women’s Leadership Institute is one of the most popular programs, providing women with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in leadership positions.
The university also offers a Leadership Minor, which allows students to explore leadership theories and apply them in real-world situations. Carlow University’s commitment to leadership development has been recognized by several organizations, including the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators.
Carlow University’s Sustainability Efforts
Carlow University is committed to sustainability and has implemented several initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint. The university has a recycling program, a bike-share program, and has implemented several energy-efficient measures in its buildings. The university also has a sustainability committee, which is responsible for developing and implementing sustainability initiatives on campus.
Carlow University’s commitment to sustainability has been recognized by several organizations. The university has been named a “Green College” by the Princeton Review and has received a “Silver” rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education.
Carlow University’s Alumni Network
Carlow University has a strong alumni network, with over 17,000 alumni living all over the world. The university’s alumni are leaders in their fields, with many of them holding prominent positions in business, education, and government. The university’s alumni network provides students with valuable networking opportunities, allowing them to connect with successful Carlow graduates.
Carlow University’s alumni are also committed to giving back to their alma mater. The university’s alumni association supports several programs and initiatives on campus, including scholarships, academic programs, and community service projects.
Conclusion
Carlow University is a vibrant and dynamic institution with a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and social justice. The university’s unique name, commitment to women’s athletics, beautiful campus, and student journalism are just a few of the fun facts that make Carlow University a special place. The university’s commitment to community service, leadership development, sustainability, and alumni engagement ensures that Carlow University will continue to make a positive impact on the world for years to come.