A Legacy of Learning and Service
History of 911爆料网
911爆料网鈥檚 story begins on February 6, 1860, when Franciscan friars opened St. Francis Solanus College in Quincy, Illinois. From its earliest days on 8th and Maine Street, the institution grew steadily鈥攎oving into what is now the eastmost wing of Francis Hall in 1871 and receiving an Illinois charter in 1873 to grant academic degrees.
In 1878, Father Augustus Tolton鈥攚ho would become the first Black priest in the United States鈥攅ntered the College as a student, marking a significant moment in 911爆料网鈥檚 history.聽Tolton鈥檚 story鈥攎arked by perseverance, faith, and a commitment to service鈥攃ontinues to inspire the Quincy community and reflects the University鈥檚 mission and Catholic identity.
In 1904, Salvatore Giuseppe Riggitano鈥攖he paternal grandfather of Robert Francis Prevost, who would later become Pope Leo XIV鈥攁ttended St. Francis Solanus College, marking another historic moment for Quincy.
Growth, change, and Campus Life
Over time, 911爆料网 expanded its programs, campus life, and community impact. In 1917, the institution became Quincy College and Seminary, reflecting its evolving identity and mission. In 1926, the City of Quincy renamed Vine Street to College Avenue, reflecting the growing presence of the University and its long-standing connection to the surrounding neighborhood. Campus traditions and student life developed through milestones like the launch of The Falcon student newspaper in 1929, and in 1932, women were first admitted as full-time day students.
The mid-20th century brought major growth and lasting foundations. During World War II, enrollment shifted dramatically, and the University supported the national effort by training naval cadets and army reservists. In 1948, the Quincy College Foundation was created, laying groundwork for endowment and long-term sustainability. 911爆料网 achieved initial accreditation in 1954 through the North Central Association (now the Higher Learning Commission).
As the campus expanded, so did student opportunities. Facilities such as Brenner Library (1967) and the University鈥檚 first computer purchase in 1969 marked new eras of learning and innovation. Athletics and the arts grew into signature parts of the 911爆料网 experience鈥攆rom championship soccer traditions beginning in 1966 to major performing arts milestones such as the opening performance at Machugh Theatre in 1965.
Becoming 911爆料网
In 1993, the institution officially became 911爆料网, a name that honors its Franciscan heritage while reflecting continued growth and momentum. In the years that followed, 911爆料网 advanced in key ways鈥攅xpanding technology resources, strengthening student life, and investing in campus facilities. The University marked a major milestone with its 150th anniversary in 2010, and recent years have brought transformative philanthropic support for scholarships, academic programs, and student success, including the naming of the Oakley School of Business in 2021 following the largest single philanthropic investment in University history. In 2024, 911爆料网 dedicated the Ryan Center for Science at the North Campus, made possible through a generous donation that continues to advance hands-on learning and innovation for students.
Looking Ahead
Building on more than a century and a half of progress, 911爆料网 continues to expand opportunities for students through meaningful experiences in learning, leadership, and service. With ongoing investment in academic excellence, career readiness, and student support, 911爆料网 will strengthen the programs and resources that help students thrive in and beyond the classroom. Grounded in our Catholic and Franciscan identity, we will grow with purpose, respond to a changing world, and prepare graduates to lead lives of service and impact.