Lourdes History – Lourdes University
Close Search
History
From its establishment in 1958 by the Sisters of St. Francis, Lourdes University has provided an excellent Catholic and Franciscan education.
Milestones and Accomplishments
1916
Bishop Schrembs formally requests a Toledo Province of Rochester Sisters. On November 23, Rochester Franciscans were selected as the original province members. The group was under the direction of Mother Adelaide Sandusky, the newly appointed Provincial Superior.
1917
Three farms located in Sylvania, Ohio, are purchased. This property would one day become the home of the Franciscan Sisters.
1942
An extension campus of St. Teresa in Winona, Minnesota, is established on the Sylvania-Franciscan campus.
1958
Lourdes Junior College is founded. Mother Justinian Warpeha, OSF is the first President (1958-1962).
1964
The College receives accreditation from the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools during the presidency of Sr. M. Remigia Kostick, OSF, 1962–1972.
1969
Lay women are admitted to the Junior College.
1973
Lourdes College becomes independently incorporated.
1975
During the presidency of Sr. Rosaria Petra, OSF, 1972–1981, the first men are admitted to Lourdes College. Educational opportunities are also extended to students from the St. Vincent School of Nursing in Toledo and the Providence School of Nursing in Sandusky, Ohio.
1977
The Franciscan Sisters and area business and civic leaders hold extensive discussions regarding the need for a Catholic college following the closing of Mary Manse College. These discussions lead to a feasibility study regarding a four-year college.
1978
An Associate Degree for Occupational Therapy Assistant receives approval.
1979
A Lifelong Learning Center is founded by Sr. Ann Francis Klimkowski, OSF, and offers a wide range of adult education classes.
1981
Under the guidance of Sr. Marie Andrée Chorzempa, OSF, (acting president 1981–1983), the first bachelor’s degree programs are developed in religious studies and individualized studies. The Board approves the move to a four-year college.
1982
The College is authorized by the Ohio Board of Regents and receives accreditation from North Central Association for baccalaureate degrees.
1983
Sr. Ann Francis Klimkowski, OSF, becomes president of the College (1983–2000).
1986
Two more bachelor’s degrees are added to the curriculum: Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
1991
The Associate Degree for Early Childhood Teacher Education is approved.
1993
A full complement of majors within the Bachelor of Arts degree are added.
1999
Authorization from the Ohio Board of Regents and accreditation from North Central Association are received to offer a Bachelor of Science degree.
2000
Dr. George Matthews becomes president of the College (2000–2003).
2002
Graduate degrees in Education and Organizational Leadership are accredited.
2003
Dr. Robert Helmer becomes president of the College (2003–2012).
2007
Lourdes dedicates Delp and McAlear Halls. Graduate degree in Nursing is accredited.
2009
Graduate degree in Theology is accredited.
2010
Lourdes welcomes first residential students and launches the inaugural intercollegiate athletic season.
2011
Lourdes College transitions to Lourdes University. Graduate degrees in Business, Liberal Studies, and Nurse Anesthesia are accredited.
2012
Dr. Janet Robinson becomes interim president of the University (2012–2013).
Statue of Mother Adelaide Sandusky
2013
Lourdes offers inaugural study abroad courses. Dr. David J. Livingston becomes the ninth president of the University. Lourdes breaks ground on Phase I of the mid-campus expansion.
2014
Lourdes’ mid-campus opens, connecting the historic and residential campuses.
2015
Northview High School and Lourdes University announce partnership; break ground on athletic complex. Gray Wolves women’s volleyball team wins Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC).
2016
Dr. Mary Ann Gawelek becomes the 10th president of the University. Lourdes officially opens and dedicates the Russell J. Ebeid Recreation Center.
2022
Dr. Terry M. Keller becomes Interim President of the University.
2023
Dr. William J. Bisset is appointed the 12th president of the University.
2024
Lourdes University adds five new majors and three new minors. Women’s wrestler Stefana Jelacic wins first national title in school history at the NAIA National Championship.
SPONSORED BY:
The Sisters of St. Francis
Lourdes University
6832 Convent Blvd.
Sylvania, OH 43560
800-878-3210
ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES
INSTITUTIONAL POLICY ON DISCRIMINATION
CONSUMER DISCLOSURES
LOURDES UNIVERSITY COMPLAINT POLICY
© 2026 Lourdes University. All Rights Reserved.
Close Menu
LOURDES PORTAL
About Lourdes
About Lourdes
President’s Welcome
University Leadership
Our Mission & Values
Lourdes History
Directions to Campus
Latest Closure Updates
Academics
About Academics
View All Majors
Arts and Sciences
Business and Leadership
Nursing and Social Sciences
Honors Program
Dean’s & Honor’s Lists
Academic Resources
About Academic Resources
Academic Advising Services
Academic Calendar, Catalog, Schedules, and Forms
Academic Success Center
General Graduation Degree Requirements
Graduation & Diploma Information
Library
TRiO Student Support Services
Alumni & Friends
Athletics
About Athletics
Recreation and Fitness Center
Go To Lourdes Athletics Website
Campus Life
Accessibility Services
Campus Housing
Campus Ministry
Dining Services
Public Safety
Recreation and Fitness Center
Student Handbook
Student Life
Resources
Directions to Campus
Division of Education Resources
Information Technology Services
Institutional Review Board
Latest News
Library
Lifelong Learning Program
Policies
Community Standards & Student Conduct
Lourdes University Complaint Policy
Student Handbook
Tuition & Fees
Registrar
Career Services
Quick Links
Alumni Association Website
Appold Planetarium
Bookstore
Bookstore
Lourdes Apparel
Calendar of Events
Directions to Campus
Make a Payment
Student Web
Transcript Requests
Lifelong Learning Program
Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania
Rent the Franciscan Center
Font Resize
Contrast
Accessibility by WAH