Aquinas College

Aquinas College is a private, Roman Catholic liberal arts college located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Founded in the Dominican tradition, the university's academic and social life is rooted in the four Dominican pillars: Study, Prayer, Community, and Service. It is committed to providing a holistic education that integrates professional preparation with a strong liberal arts foundation, preparing students to be ethical leaders and engaged citizens. Situated on a historic, 140-acre campus, the university serves a diverse student body through over 60 majors and programs, fostering an environment where faith and reason interact to cultivate intellectual curiosity and moral responsibility.

The university's history began in 1886 with the founding of the Novitiate Normal School by the Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids, initially intended to train Sisters for teaching. The institution evolved significantly over the years; in 1931, it officially became a four-year liberal arts college for women and was named Aquinas College in honor of the great Dominican philosopher and theologian, St. Thomas Aquinas. Following World War II, the university became fully co-educational in 1940, opening its doors to men returning from service. A key development was the opening of its first residential facilities in 1950, transitioning the college to a traditional residential campus. Throughout its journey, this university has remained deeply affiliated with the Catholic Church and the Dominican Order, maintaining a continuous commitment to Catholic higher education.

This university successfully maintains its foundational Dominican values while offering a relevant, modern liberal arts education in a key metropolitan area. Its strength lies in providing a highly personalized, supportive academic experience that is guided by the principles of faith and social justice. By blending rigorous academics with a commitment to service and ethical inquiry, the university prepares graduates for careers and civic leadership. Ultimately, this university is defined by its motto, Oportunitas, which reflects its dedication to offering an opportunity for personal and professional transformation within a community that values wisdom, scholarship, and compassionate action.