Our History
University of Saint Joseph: A Bold BeginningIn 1932, the Sisters of Mercy of Connecticut set out on a remarkable journey. Their mission: to establish the first liberal arts college for women in the Hartford area; one founded on the principles of service and leadership; one determined to develop the potential of women in a complex and evolving world.
The Founders were women of great purpose. They maintained that in order to address life's challenges, one must balance professional aspirations with humanistic studies. Innovative and visionary, the Founders thus forged the University's dual ideals of academic excellence and programmatic applications.
Throughout the 80-year history of the University of Saint Joseph, this inclusive mission has never been compromised. Guided by this vision, the University has flourished and is now nationally recognized for its outstanding programs in education, nursing, human services, the humanities and the sciences. These programs have proven themselves vitally important to the people and the economy of our community. Graduates of the University's liberal arts and the professional degree programs continue to serve their communities in significant ways throughout their lives.
In focusing on the needs of people of all ages, races, religions, and cultures, the Founding Sisters initiated programs that serve a broad range of students. Beyond the undergraduate programs for women, the University of Saint Joseph serves the adult learner through the coeducational Adult Learner and Graduate Schools. From pre-schoolers enrolled in The School for Young Children to young adults in The Gengras Center, all benefit from the University's vision.
As the University of Saint Joseph has evolved into a vibrant educational complex, it has never strayed from its original vision: that is, its commitment to preparing women for insightful leadership. The University has endured throughout the years and remains today the sole four-year women's university in the State.
