Marian University

Specialties

At Marian University, our vision is to provide an education that profoundly transforms lives, society, and the world. Our mission is to be a Catholic university dedicated to excellent teaching and learning in the Franciscan and liberal arts traditions. We welcome students of all faiths who seek an educational experience framed within the context of our Franciscan values of dignity of the individual, peace and justice, reconciliation, and responsible stewardship. Our understanding of these values is informed by reflection on the life of Jesus Christ and prayer.

History

Established in 1937.

1851 — Our Historical Roots

On the feast of the Epiphany, 1851, 24-​year-​old Sr. Theresa Hackelmeier arrived at a log cabin in Oldenburg, Indiana, having ignored the social conventions of her day in order to travel alone from her convent home in Vienna, Austria, when her companion turned back. In response to the request of Fr. Francis Joseph Rudolf of Vincennes, she had come to found an American religious congregation at Oldenburg that would teach the German-​speaking children of southeastern Indiana.

1936 — The Beginning

Originally known as St. Francis Normal, the school became a four-​year, state-​approved institution which merged with Immaculate Conception Junior College to form Marian College. In November 1936, the Sisters of St. Francis purchased the former James Allison estate, «Riverdale,» as a site for Marian College.

1937 — Marian College Is Born

In 1937, the college moved to Indianapolis under the direction of Mother M. Clarissa Dillhoff, after securing a state charter and pu