Introduction
Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University (SLU) is the oldest university west of the Mississippi River and one of the oldest universities in the United States. It is a Jesuit institution located in St. Louis, Missouri, and has a total enrollment of over 13,000 undergraduate and graduate students. The university is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to social justice. SLU has a rich history and is home to many fun facts that make it unique. From its founding to its current status, Saint Louis University has a lot of interesting stories to tell.
History of SLU
Saint Louis University was founded in 1818 by Bishop Louis Guillaume Valentin Dubourg, a French Jesuit priest. He wanted to create a university that would provide a quality education to the city’s residents, regardless of their religious affiliation. Dubourg was inspired by the Jesuit tradition of education and wanted to bring it to the United States. The university opened its doors to students in 1819 and has been educating students ever since.
The university has gone through many changes over the years, including a move from its original location to its current location in the mid-1830s. The university has grown from a small college to a large research university with a variety of programs and degrees. SLU has also been a leader in social justice and diversity, with a strong commitment to providing access to education for all.
Famous Alumni
Saint Louis University has a long list of famous alumni, including many prominent figures from the world of politics, business, and entertainment. Among the university’s most famous alumni are former US President Harry S. Truman, former US Senator and presidential candidate John Danforth, and former NFL quarterback Kurt Warner. Other notable alumni include Pulitzer Prize-winning author Eudora Welty, actor and comedian Bill Cosby, and entrepreneur and investor Robert Smith.
SLU Mascot
The SLU mascot is the Billiken, a mythical creature that is said to bring good luck and happiness. The Billiken was created by Florence Pretz, an art teacher at Saint Louis University, in 1908. The mascot has become a beloved symbol of the university and is seen on everything from t-shirts to hats to mugs.
Academic Programs
Saint Louis University offers a wide range of academic programs, from traditional liberal arts and sciences to professional and specialized degrees. The university has over 80 undergraduate majors, more than 50 master’s degrees, and more than 20 doctoral programs. SLU also offers a variety of online and hybrid degree programs, allowing students to pursue their education from anywhere in the world.
Campus Life
Saint Louis University has a vibrant campus life, with a variety of student organizations and activities to get involved in. The university also has a wide range of student services, including health and wellness services, career services, and counseling services. SLU also has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, with a variety of cultural and social organizations that celebrate the diversity of the student body.
Athletics
Saint Louis University has a long history of athletic success, with teams competing in the NCAA’s Division I. The university’s teams are known as the Billikens and compete in the Atlantic 10 Conference. The university’s most successful teams are its men’s basketball team and its women’s soccer team, both of which have had numerous NCAA tournament appearances.
Conclusion
Saint Louis University is an institution with a long and rich history. From its founding in 1818 to its current status as a large research university, SLU has a lot of interesting stories to tell. From its famous alumni to its vibrant campus life, the university is home to many fun facts that make it unique. Whether you are a student, alumni, or just a fan, Saint Louis University has something for everyone.”