Anna Maria College

Anna Maria College is a private, Catholic coeducational institution rooted in the traditions of the Sisters of Saint Anne, located in Paxton, Massachusetts, near Worcester. The university is characterized by its dedication to personalized learning and a values-based education, offering associate, bachelor's, and graduate degrees across liberal arts, sciences, and professional fields. A core element of its mission is to integrate social justice and service into the curriculum, fostering an environment where students are encouraged to pursue academic excellence while developing strong ethical and moral character in preparation for lives of purpose and leadership.

The university was founded in 1946 by the Sisters of Saint Anne to meet the growing demand for Catholic higher education in Central Massachusetts, initially opening as a liberal arts college for women. It was named in honor of Saint Anne, the grandmother of Jesus and the patron saint of the Sisters. The campus was originally established in Marlborough before relocating in 1953 to its current, expansive campus in Paxton. Over the following decades, the institution expanded its offerings, eventually becoming a fully coeducational college in 1973. The university has continuously adapted its programs to include practical and professional fields like criminal justice and nursing while maintaining its foundation in the liberal arts and its heritage of faith and service.

This university successfully provides a high-quality, values-centered education that prepares students for immediate professional impact while fostering a commitment to social responsibility. By blending liberal arts foundations with highly practical professional studies, and maintaining a focus on small, supportive classes, the university ensures every student benefits from personalized instruction and career-relevant experience. The institution stands as a key regional provider of educated professionals, particularly in the public service and health sectors, embodying the Sisters of Saint Anne's commitment to transforming lives through education and service.