Introduction
La Roche University is a small, private Catholic university located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With a rich history that spans over 60 years, La Roche has become known for its excellent academic programs, close-knit community, and commitment to social justice. In this blog post, we’ll explore some fun facts about La Roche University, including its founding, notable alumni, and unique traditions.
The Founding of La Roche University:
La Roche University was founded in 1963 by the Sisters of Divine Providence, a Catholic religious congregation based in Allison Park, Pennsylvania. The university was named after Mother Mary Martha La Roche, who was the superior general of the Sisters of Divine Providence from 1892 to 1912. Mother Mary Martha was known for her dedication to education and her strong belief in the importance of providing women with opportunities to pursue higher education.
La Roche University started as a small liberal arts college for women, but it has since expanded to become a coeducational institution that offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a wide range of fields, including business, education, nursing, and science.
Notable Alumni:
Over the years, La Roche University has produced many successful alumni who have gone on to achieve great things in their chosen fields. Here are just a few notable alumni:
- Tim Ryan: Tim Ryan is a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing Ohio’s 13th congressional district. He graduated from La Roche University in 1995 with a bachelor’s degree in political science.
- Anne McGrath: Anne McGrath is a prominent Canadian political strategist and activist. She graduated from La Roche University in 1986 with a bachelor’s degree in political science.
- Daniel R. Burns: Daniel R. Burns is a former United States ambassador to Jordan. He graduated from La Roche University in 1974 with a bachelor’s degree in political science.
These are just a few examples of the many successful alumni who have come out of La Roche University over the years.
Unique Traditions:
La Roche University has several unique traditions that are beloved by students and alumni alike. Here are a few of them:
- The La Roche Walk: The La Roche Walk is a tradition that takes place at the beginning of each academic year. It involves new students walking through a tunnel formed by upperclassmen, who cheer and welcome them to the La Roche community.
- The Red & Blue Society: The Red & Blue Society is a student organization that promotes school spirit and community involvement. Members of the Red & Blue Society can be found at many La Roche events, including athletic games, homecoming, and other campus activities.
- The Bread & Salt Ceremony: The Bread & Salt Ceremony is a tradition that takes place at La Roche’s annual International Dinner. During the ceremony, representatives from each country represented at La Roche present bread and salt to the university’s president, symbolizing their commitment to hospitality and friendship.
Conclusion
In conclusion, La Roche University is a unique and vibrant institution with a rich history and a strong commitment to academic excellence and social justice. Whether you’re a student, alumni, or simply interested in learning more about this fascinating university, we hope that this blog post has provided you with some fun and interesting facts about La Roche University.
