Introduction
St. Bonaventure University is a private Franciscan university located in Western New York. Established in 1858, it has grown into a reputable institution of higher learning that offers over 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. However, beyond its academic offerings, there are plenty of fun facts about St. Bonaventure University that many people are unaware of. In this blog post, we will delve into some of these intriguing facts that make this university stand out.
St. Bonaventure University was named after a saint
St. Bonaventure University was named after a saint who was born in Bagnoregio, Italy, in 1221. His birth name was Giovanni di Fidanza, but he later changed it to Bonaventure when he joined the Franciscan Order. Bonaventure was a renowned philosopher and theologian who made significant contributions to the development of the Catholic Church. He was also a close friend and advisor to Saint Thomas Aquinas, another notable theologian. St. Bonaventure University was named after him in recognition of his contributions to the Church and his commitment to the Franciscan values of service, humility, and compassion.
The University has a unique mascot
Most universities have mascots that are commonly found in the animal kingdom, such as tigers, lions, or eagles. However, St. Bonaventure University’s mascot is a brown Indian star tortoise named “Deacon.” This unique choice of a mascot was inspired by a legend that states that St. Francis of Assisi tamed a wild wolf that had been terrorizing the town of Gubbio in Italy. Since then, the Franciscan Order has adopted various animals as symbols of their virtues. The tortoise was chosen as the mascot of St. Bonaventure University because it represents strength, resilience, and steadfastness, which are all values that the university strives to instill in its students.
The University has a long-standing rivalry with a nearby college
College rivalries are common, but few can match the intensity of the rivalry between St. Bonaventure University and its neighbor, Saint Joseph’s University. The rivalry dates back to the 1960s when the two schools began competing in basketball games. The games between the two schools have become so intense that they are now referred to as the “Battle of the Bonnies” and the “Holy War.”
The rivalry extends beyond the basketball court, as students from both schools engage in friendly competitions and pranks. Despite the intense rivalry, both schools have mutual respect for each other, and the competition has become a cherished tradition for both communities.
The University has a unique tradition of celebrating the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi
St. Bonaventure University is a Franciscan institution, and as such, it celebrates the feast day of its patron saint, St. Francis of Assisi, in a unique way. Every year on October 4th, the university holds a “Transitus” service to commemorate the death of St. Francis. The service involves readings, prayers, and songs that reflect on the life and teachings of St. Francis. At the end of the service, the attendees light candles and process to the “Falcone Library,” where a small shrine to St. Francis is located. This unique tradition is a reminder of the Franciscan values of humility, service, and reverence for all of God’s creation.
The University has a connection to the Kennedy family
St. Bonaventure University has a unique connection to the Kennedy family, one of the most prominent political families in American history. In 1960, John F. Kennedy, the future President of the United States, visited St. Bonaventure University while he was campaigning for the presidency. During his visit, he gave a speech in the university’s Reilly Center, which is now known as the “JFK Reilly Center.” The center serves as a venue for sports events, concerts, and other community events, and its name serves as a reminder of the university’s connection to the Kennedy family.
The University has a beautiful campus
St. Bonaventure University is known for its beautiful campus, which is located in the rural town of Allegany, New York. The campus is situated on 500 acres of rolling hills and wooded areas, providing students with a peaceful and serene environment for learning and reflection. The university’s buildings are designed in a classic Gothic style, with stone facades, ornate arches, and stained-glass windows. The campus is also home to several beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces, including the “Garden of Lourdes,” a peaceful garden dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
The University has a strong commitment to community service
St. Bonaventure University is deeply committed to the Franciscan values of service and social justice. The university encourages its students to engage in community service and provides them with numerous opportunities to do so. The university’s Center for Community Engagement offers a variety of programs and initiatives that allow students to get involved in service projects both on and off campus.
These projects include tutoring and mentoring programs, environmental clean-up initiatives, and fundraising campaigns for local charities. Through its commitment to community service, St. Bonaventure University seeks to instill in its students a sense of social responsibility and a desire to make a positive impact in their communities.
The University has a strong athletic program
St. Bonaventure University has a strong athletic program that has produced numerous successful athletes over the years. The university’s basketball team, in particular, has a rich history of success, having won numerous conference championships and making several appearances in the NCAA tournament. The university’s mascot, Deacon the tortoise, is also the official mascot of the athletic program.
The university’s athletic facilities are top-notch, with the Reilly Center serving as the main venue for basketball games and other sporting events. The university’s commitment to athletics is not just about winning games, but also about promoting physical fitness and healthy lifestyles among its students.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, St. Bonaventure University is a unique institution of higher learning with a rich history and a commitment to Franciscan values. From its namesake saint and unique mascot to its intense college rivalry and commitment to community service, there are plenty of fun facts about St. Bonaventure University that make it a special place. Its beautiful campus and strong athletic program also make it an attractive destination for students who value a well-rounded education. Whether you are a student, faculty member, or alumni, St. Bonaventure University is a place that you can be proud to be associated with.
