Our Catholic Tradition

Salve Regina's story reaches back in time almost 200 years, to Ireland and a wealthy Dubliner named Catherine McAuley. Deeply aware of the plight of the poor, she built a center where they could be sheltered, cared for and educated. After professing her vows as the first Religious Sister of Mercy in 1831, McAuley and her associates devoted themselves to alleviating the suffering and misery that was devastating Ireland at the time.

For nearly two centuries, the Sisters of Mercy have maintained a strong presence throughout the world, and have been deeply involved in education, health care, pastoral ministry and social services. Spanning the United States is a network of universities and secondary and elementary schools sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, who are assisted in their ministry by well-qualified lay faculty, staff and administrators.

Outstanding among these institutions is Salve Regina, whose story continues today with faculty and administration preparing students for active roles within a global society. The rigorous course of study integrates responsible citizenship and public service, while the interconnection of academic programs forms a stable foundation for students to reflect and learn within the context of Catholic values.

As Salve Regina grows, it remains firmly rooted in the heritage of its rich past. The vision which energized the Sisters of Mercy at the University's founding remains the same today: Salve Regina, a Catholic university of distinction, will graduate men and women who positively impact the intellectual, spiritual and cultural life of their respective communities and work for a world that is harmonious, just and merciful.