Introduction
Spalding University is a private, co-educational university in Louisville, Kentucky, USA. It is named after Catherine Spalding, the founder of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, who established the school in 1814. Over the years, Spalding University has become known for its excellent academic programs, diverse student body, and commitment to community service. In this post, we will explore some fun facts about Spalding University that you may not have known before.
Fun facts about Spalding University
The history of Spalding University
Spalding University has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the early 19th century. In 1814, Mother Catherine Spalding and two other Sisters of Charity of Nazareth founded St. Vincent’s Academy in Louisville, which would later become Spalding University. The school’s first class consisted of only seven students, but it quickly grew in size and reputation. In 1920, the school was renamed Spalding College and became a four-year liberal arts college. In 1971, Spalding College merged with Nazareth College, another Catholic school in Louisville, to become Spalding University. Today, Spalding University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, nursing, psychology, and creative writing.
Spalding University’s commitment to social justice
Social justice is a key part of Spalding University’s mission and identity. The school’s Catholic heritage emphasizes the importance of serving others, and Spalding University takes this message to heart by promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. For example, Spalding University was the first college in Kentucky to establish a diversity office, which is dedicated to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all students. In addition, Spalding University offers a number of programs and initiatives that focus on social justice issues. These include the Muhammad Ali Institute for Peace and Justice, which promotes understanding and collaboration among people of different races, religions, and cultures, and the School of Social Work, which prepares students to become advocates for social justice in their communities.
Spalding University’s impressive alumni
Spalding University has a number of notable alumni who have gone on to achieve great success in a variety of fields. One of the most famous is Diane Sawyer, who graduated from Spalding in 1967 with a degree in English. Sawyer went on to become a renowned journalist and news anchor, working for networks such as CBS, ABC, and NBC. Another notable Spalding alumna is Sue Grafton, who graduated in 1961 with a degree in English and went on to become a best-selling author of detective novels. Other notable Spalding alumni include basketball player Darrell Griffith, poet Jeremy Paden, and artist Bob Lockhart.
Spalding University’s beautiful campus
Spalding University’s campus is located in the heart of Louisville, and it is known for its beautiful architecture and green spaces. One of the most impressive buildings on campus is the historic mansion that houses the President’s office. This building was built in the 1850s and has been carefully preserved over the years. Another beautiful building on campus is the Egan Leadership Center, which features a modern, eco-friendly design and a rooftop garden. Spalding University’s campus also includes several outdoor spaces, including a courtyard with a fountain, a meditation garden, and a small urban forest.
Spalding University’s commitment to sustainability
Sustainability is a core value at Spalding University, and the school has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. For example, Spalding University has a LEED-certified residence hall that features energy-efficient lighting, a green roof, and a geothermal heating and cooling system. In addition, Spalding University has a comprehensive recycling program and a community garden that provides fresh produce for the school’s cafeteria. The school also offers courses and events related to sustainability, such as a sustainability lecture series and a course on environmental ethics.
Spalding University’s athletic programs
Spalding University has a strong athletic program that includes both varsity and club sports. The school’s varsity teams compete in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and include sports such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, and cross country. Spalding University’s men’s basketball team has been particularly successful in recent years, winning three straight conference championships from 2016 to 2018. The school also has several club sports teams, including ultimate frisbee, rugby, and e-sports.
Spalding University’s commitment to service learning
Service learning is a key part of the educational experience at Spalding University. The school’s mission emphasizes the importance of service to others, and many of the school’s courses and programs include a service learning component. For example, students in the School of Social Work are required to complete a certain number of service hours each semester, and the school offers a service learning trip to Belize each year. In addition, Spalding University has a Center for Peace and Spiritual Renewal that offers programs and retreats focused on service, social justice, and spirituality.
Conclusion
In this post, we have explored some of the fun facts about Spalding University, including its rich history, commitment to social justice, impressive alumni, beautiful campus, sustainability initiatives, athletic programs, and service learning opportunities. Spalding University is a unique and dynamic institution that has much to offer its students and the community at large.
