Introduction
Mount St. Mary’s University is a Catholic liberal arts university located in Emmitsburg, Maryland. Founded in 1808 by Father John Dubois, it is the second oldest Catholic university in the United States. Over the years, the university has gained a reputation for academic excellence, a strong commitment to service, and a vibrant campus community. In this post, we will take a closer look at some fun facts about Mount St. Mary’s University that you may not have known.
Historical Facts
Mount St. Mary’s University has a rich history that dates back more than 200 years. Here are some fun facts about the university’s history:
a) The university was founded by Father John Dubois, who later became the second Bishop of New York.
b) The university’s original name was Mount Saint Mary’s College and Seminary.
c) During the Civil War, the university served as a hospital for wounded soldiers from both the Union and Confederate armies.
d) In 1910, a fire destroyed the university’s main building, which was then rebuilt and named in honor of benefactor Andrew Carnegie.
e) In 1979, Mount St. Mary’s College became Mount St. Mary’s University, reflecting its growth and expansion over the years.
Notable Alumni
Mount St. Mary’s University has produced many notable alumni who have gone on to achieve great success in their respective fields. Here are some fun facts about some of the university’s most notable alumni:
a) Michael D. Griffin, a 1971 graduate, served as the administrator of NASA from 2005 to 2009.
b) Elizabeth Ann Seton, who attended the university in the early 1800s, went on to become the first American-born saint.
c) Harold Edward “Red” Grange, a 1925 graduate, was one of the greatest football players of all time, and was known as “The Galloping Ghost.”
d) Major General Matthew C. Horner, a 1917 graduate, was a decorated Marine Corps officer who served in both World War I and World War II.
e) G. Marvin Beeman, a 1958 graduate, was a mathematician and computer scientist who helped develop the programming language known as COBOL.
Campus Traditions
Mount St. Mary’s University has many traditions that are beloved by students, alumni, and faculty alike. Here are some fun facts about some of the university’s most cherished traditions:
a) The annual Mount Olympics is a week-long event that pits dorm against dorm in a series of athletic and non-athletic competitions.
b) The Mountaineer mascot, who is named after the university’s athletic teams, has been a fixture on campus since the 1930s.
c) Each year, the university holds a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, where students gather to sing carols and enjoy hot cocoa and cookies.
d) The Mount St. Mary’s Grotto, which is located on the edge of campus, is a replica of the famous Lourdes Grotto in France, and is a popular spot for prayer and meditation.
e) The annual Founder’s Day celebration honors the university’s rich history and heritage, and includes a Mass, a banquet, and other special events.
Academic Excellence
Mount St. Mary’s University has a long-standing commitment to academic excellence, and is known for its rigorous liberal arts curriculum. Here are some fun facts about the university’s academic achievements:
a) The university offers more than 70 undergraduate and graduate programs in a wide range of fields, including business, education, nursing, and theology.
b) The Mount’s honors program, which is open to select students who meet certain academic criteria, offers unique opportunities for research, travel, and service.
c) The university’s faculty includes numerous award-winning scholars and researchers, who are dedicated to helping students achieve their academic goals.
d) Mount St. Mary’s University has a strong commitment to service and social justice, and offers a variety of service-learning and volunteer opportunities for students.
e) The university’s Center for Student Research provides funding and support for students who wish to engage in independent research projects, and has helped produce many notable research papers and presentations.
Campus Life
Mount St. Mary’s University is known for its vibrant campus community, which offers a wide range of activities and events for students to participate in. Here are some fun facts about campus life at the Mount:
a) The university has more than 70 student clubs and organizations, ranging from academic and professional groups to cultural and recreational clubs.
b) The Mount St. Mary’s Marching Band, known as “The Mountaineer Brigade,” is a beloved fixture on campus and at athletic events.
c) The university’s annual Spring Fling festival is a day-long celebration of spring, featuring carnival games, food trucks, live music, and other fun activities.
d) The Mount St. Mary’s Chorale, a student choir group, has performed at Carnegie Hall, the White House, and other prestigious venues.
e) The university’s Center for Campus Ministry offers a variety of spiritual and religious activities and programs, including retreats, Masses, and volunteer opportunities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mount St. Mary’s University is a unique and vibrant institution with a rich history, notable alumni, a commitment to academic excellence, and a lively campus community. Whether you are a current student, an alum, or simply someone interested in learning more about this remarkable institution, there is much to discover and appreciate about Mount St. Mary’s University.