Introduction
Ohio Dominican University (ODU) is a private Catholic university located in Columbus, Ohio. Founded in 1911, it has been providing quality education to students for over a century. ODU offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields, including business, education, and nursing. But did you know that there are many interesting facts about ODU that are not commonly known? In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about Ohio Dominican University that you may not have heard before.

ODU’s rich history
ODU has a rich history that spans over a hundred years. It was founded in 1911 by the Dominican Sisters of St. Mary of the Springs, who had a vision to create a college for women that would provide them with a quality education in a Catholic setting. Originally called the College of St. Mary of the Springs, the institution’s name was changed to Ohio Dominican College in 1964 to reflect its growing academic programs.
In 2002, ODU became a university, and it continues to thrive as a Catholic institution of higher learning. The campus has undergone significant changes over the years, with new buildings being constructed and older buildings being renovated to provide state-of-the-art facilities for students. Despite these changes, ODU has remained true to its mission of providing students with a quality education that is grounded in the Catholic tradition.
ODU’s commitment to diversity
ODU is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive community on campus. The university values diversity in all forms, including race, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic background. ODU’s commitment to diversity is reflected in its student body, which consists of students from a variety of backgrounds and cultures.
The university has also established several programs and initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion on campus. One such initiative is the Multicultural Student Services Center, which provides support and resources for students of diverse backgrounds. The center offers programming and events throughout the year, including cultural celebrations, educational workshops, and social activities.
ODU also offers a variety of scholarships and grants to support students from diverse backgrounds. The university’s Diversity Scholarship is awarded to students who have demonstrated a commitment to diversity and inclusion in their academic and extracurricular activities.
ODU’s focus on service and community engagement
ODU is committed to serving the community and promoting social justice. The university’s mission statement emphasizes the importance of service and community engagement in its educational programs. ODU students are encouraged to engage in service activities and to develop a sense of social responsibility.
One way that ODU promotes service and community engagement is through its Center for Service and Leadership. The center provides opportunities for students to volunteer and engage in service projects in the local community. The center also offers leadership development programs and workshops to help students develop the skills they need to become effective leaders.
ODU also has several programs that promote social justice and community engagement. The university’s Social Justice Institute is dedicated to promoting social justice through research, education, and advocacy. The institute sponsors lectures, workshops, and other events that explore issues related to social justice and equality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ohio Dominican University is more than just a private Catholic university. It has a rich history, a commitment to diversity and inclusion, and a focus on service and community engagement. These are just a few of the many fun facts about ODU that make it a unique and special place. Whether you are a current student, an alum, or just someone interested in learning more about this institution, ODU has something to offer everyone.