Introduction
Saint Mary’s College of California is one of the oldest and most prestigious educational institutions in the United States. Located in Moraga, California, the college was founded in 1863 by the Sisters of the Holy Cross. It is a private liberal arts college that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees. The college is known for its strong academic programs, its commitment to social justice, and its vibrant student life. It is also home to several notable alumni, including former Senator and Vice President Joe Biden. In this blog post, we will explore some of the fun facts about Saint Mary’s College of California that make it such a unique and special place.
The Founding of Saint Mary’s College
Saint Mary’s College of California was founded in 1863 by the Sisters of the Holy Cross, a Catholic religious order. The college was established as a school for women, and it was the first college in California to offer higher education for women. The school was originally located in Oakland, but it was moved to its current location in Moraga in 1928. The college has since become a co-educational institution, and it now serves both men and women.
Athletics at Saint Mary’s College
Saint Mary’s College is known for its strong athletic programs. The college is a member of the NCAA Division I and the West Coast Conference. The college’s most successful sports teams are its men’s basketball team, which has won two NCAA tournament appearances, and its women’s soccer team, which has won two NCAA tournament appearances and three conference championships. The college also has numerous club and intramural sports teams, including rugby, lacrosse, and ultimate frisbee.
Campus Life at Saint Mary’s College
Saint Mary’s College is known for its vibrant campus life. The college has over 100 student clubs and organizations, including academic clubs, cultural clubs, and service clubs. The college also hosts numerous events throughout the year, such as concerts, lectures, and theatrical performances. The college also has a thriving Greek life, with over 20 fraternities and sororities.
Notable Alumni of Saint Mary’s College
Saint Mary’s College has produced many notable alumni, including former Senator and Vice President Joe Biden. Other notable alumni include actor and comedian Rob Riggle, former NBA player and coach Paul Westphal, and former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown. The college also has a long list of notable faculty, including Nobel Prize winner and chemist Glenn Seaborg and Pulitzer Prize-winning author and poet Adrienne Rich.
Academic Programs at Saint Mary’s College
Saint Mary’s College is known for its strong academic programs. The college offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including majors in business, computer science, education, engineering, and the liberal arts. The college also offers a variety of minors, concentrations, and certificate programs. The college is also home to several research centers and institutes, such as the Center for Social Justice and the Institute for Leadership and Entrepreneurship.
The Chapel at Saint Mary’s College
The Chapel at Saint Mary’s College is one of the most recognizable landmarks on campus. The chapel was built in the 1930s and is modeled after the gothic cathedrals of Europe. The chapel is open to the public and is used for religious services, weddings, and other special events. The chapel is also home to the college’s famous organ, which is one of the largest organs in the United States.
Conclusion
Saint Mary’s College of California is a unique and special place. From its founding by the Sisters of the Holy Cross to its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life, the college has a lot to offer. The college is also home to several notable alumni and faculty, and it is known for its strong athletic programs and its beautiful chapel. Whether you’re an alumnus, a student, or just a visitor, Saint Mary’s College is sure to leave a lasting impression.”