Celebrating 175 Years
1851 – 2026
Honoring Marian University’s legacy of faith, learning, and service.
175th Anniversary
As Marian University celebrates its 175th anniversary, we proudly look back to 1851, when the Sisters of St. Francis in Oldenburg, Indiana—visionary women of faith and courage—founded an educational endeavor grounded in Franciscan values, service, and compassion. Marian remains one of the only universities in Indiana founded by women, a legacy that continues to define our spirit of innovation and purpose.
As Indy’s Catholic university, Marian’s commitment to forming ethical, transformational leaders is evident in every program we offer. For 175 years, we have grown by expanding our academic offerings, growing our campus footprint and locations, graduating students from every state and around the world, and contributing mightily to the communities we serve.
Our reach now extends beyond Indianapolis, including our growing Marian University Plymouth campus, bringing mission-driven education to more communities across the state, nursing sites in Nashville, Tennessee, and programs online.
We are also home to top-performing athletics, with championship-caliber teams, nationally recognized coaches, and student athletes who lead with integrity. From football and track to cycling and basketball, Marian’s athletics represent the very best of character in competition and stellar academics.
Every milestone across Marian’s 175-year history reflects the dedication of the Sisters of St. Francis, our faculty and staff, our students, and our thousands of alumni who continue to lead with faith and purpose. This anniversary is not simply a celebration of the past; it is a proud reminder of the bright future we are building together.
1851 Founding Roots
Sisters of St. Francis Establish the School
Sister Theresa Hackelmeier and the Sisters of St. Francis in Oldenburg founded the institution with a bold Franciscan vision for Catholic teacher education in Indiana.
1936 – 1937 Marian College Era
Marian College Chartered and Moves to Indianapolis
Marian College was officially established. The Sisters purchased the magnificent Allison estate (“Riverdale”) and opened the new Indianapolis campus in 1937.
1954 Co-Ed Milestone
First Co-Educational Catholic College in Indiana
With the completion of Marian Hall, the college welcomed men for the first time—becoming Indiana’s first co-educational Catholic college.
1966 Campus Expansion
Modernist Library and Growing Campus
The striking Evans Woollen III library opened, joined by new residence halls and academic buildings that solidified Marian’s mid-century campus identity.
1976 – 1992 Academic Growth
Teacher Education and Nursing Take Shape
NCATE accreditation strengthened teacher education, nursing programs launched and earned approval, and Marian emerged as a regional leader in education and health professions.
1992 Athletics Rising
Cycling Program Launches
Marian’s cycling team was born and quickly rose to national prominence, making athletics a vibrant part of campus life.
2009 University Era
Marian College Becomes Marian University
The name change reflected explosive growth in graduate and professional programs and a bold vision for a comprehensive Catholic university.
2010 – 2013 Medical School
Tom and Julie Wood College of Osteopathic Medicine
MU-COM opened as Indiana’s first new medical school in over 100 years and the nation’s first Catholic osteopathic medical school.
2020 – 2023 Engineering
E. S. Witchger School of Engineering Launches
A new state-of-the-art engineering facility opened, transitioning from dual-degree partnerships to Marian’s own accredited four-year engineering programs.
2020s Strategic Growth
Rising Enrollment, New Schools, and National Impact
Record enrollment, innovative new schools and programs, successful capital campaigns, and a growing reputation position Marian as Indianapolis’ leading Catholic, Franciscan university.