Introduction
The University of Scranton is a private, Jesuit university located in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Established in 1888, it is one of the oldest and most respected universities in the United States. With a strong commitment to academic excellence, the University of Scranton has provided its students with a high-quality education for more than 130 years. From its humble beginnings, the university has grown to become a highly respected institution that is known for its rigorous academic standards, vibrant campus life, and commitment to service. Here are some fun facts about the University of Scranton that you may not know.
The First Catholic University in Pennsylvania
The University of Scranton is the first Catholic university in Pennsylvania. Founded in 1888 by the Most Reverend William O’Hara, the first Bishop of Scranton, the university was originally known as the College of St. Thomas of Aquin. The university was established to provide a quality education for the Catholic population of the region. In 1938, the university was renamed the University of Scranton and received its charter from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Today, the university continues to provide a quality education to students of all faiths.
The Jesuit Tradition
The University of Scranton is a Jesuit institution, meaning that it is part of the worldwide Jesuit educational network. The university is committed to the Jesuit tradition of educating the whole person, which emphasizes the importance of service, social justice, and critical thinking. The university’s Jesuit identity is reflected in its core curriculum, which focuses on the liberal arts and sciences. The university also offers a variety of service-learning opportunities, which allow students to engage in meaningful service projects in the local community.
Athletics Program
The University of Scranton has a long and proud history of athletics. The university is home to the Scranton Royals, who compete in the Landmark Conference in Division III of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). The university offers a variety of sports, including baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, lacrosse, soccer, softball, tennis, and track and field. The university also has a successful club sports program, which includes teams in rugby, ultimate frisbee, and ice hockey.
Research and Innovation
The University of Scranton is committed to research and innovation. The university’s research centers and institutes focus on a variety of topics, including health science, business, and the environment. The university also has a strong commitment to entrepreneurship, offering a variety of programs and resources to help students develop their own business ideas. The university also has a robust technology transfer program, which helps to commercialize the research of faculty and students.
Campus Life
The University of Scranton has a vibrant campus life. The university offers a variety of student organizations, including honor societies, cultural organizations, and service organizations. The university also has a strong Greek life, with more than 20 fraternities and sororities. The university also offers a variety of social activities and events, including concerts, plays, and lectures.
Alumni Network
The University of Scranton has an extensive alumni network, with more than 80,000 alumni living in all 50 states and more than 100 countries. The university’s alumni association is dedicated to connecting alumni and providing them with resources and opportunities to stay connected to the university. The university also hosts a variety of events for alumni, including reunions, regional events, and homecoming.
Conclusion
The University of Scranton has a long and proud history of providing its students with a quality education. From its humble beginnings as the College of St. Thomas of Aquin, the university has grown to become a highly respected institution that is known for its rigorous academic standards, vibrant campus life, and commitment to service. The university is also committed to research and innovation, offering a variety of programs and resources to help students develop their own business ideas. With an extensive alumni network and a strong commitment to service, the University of Scranton is a place where students can grow and thrive.”