Aquinas College

Aquinas College. It is a private Catholic liberal arts institution in Grand Rapids, Michigan, founded by the Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids. The college emphasizes a liberal arts education integrated with career preparation and a commitment to Catholic social teaching. Named for the medieval theologian Saint Thomas Aquinas, it operates on a semester system and is known for its scenic campus and strong NCAA Division II athletic programs.

History

The institution originated in 1886 when the Dominican Sisters established a novitiate and normal school for teacher training, initially known as Marywood. In 1922, the sisters founded Sacred Heart College on the same site, which was later renamed for Saint Thomas Aquinas in 1931. The college received its official charter from the State of Michigan in 1940, authorizing it to grant bachelor's degrees. A significant transition occurred in 1945 when the Dominican Sisters transferred governance to an independent board of trustees, broadening its administrative structure. Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, the college expanded its academic offerings and physical plant, including the construction of the Albertus Magnus Hall of Science and the Wege Student Center.

Academics

The college offers over 100 majors and minors through its schools, including the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business, and the School of Education. It grants bachelor's degrees such as the B.A., B.S., and B.B.A., as well as select master's degrees, including a Master of Management. The curriculum is built upon a core curriculum rooted in the Great Books tradition and Thomistic philosophy. Specialized programs include the Sustainable Business program, which integrates environmental stewardship with commerce, and the Jane Hibbard Idema Women’s Studies Center. The college maintains a low student-faculty ratio and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Campus

The 107-acre campus is located in the Eastown neighborhood of Grand Rapids, Michigan, featuring a mix of Georgian and modern buildings set among wooded hills and ponds. Key facilities include the Academic Building, which houses many classrooms and administrative offices, the Albertus Magnus Hall of Science for STEM disciplines, and the Cook Carriage House, a historic building used for events. The Wege Student Center serves as a central hub for student activities, while the Brower Center and Sturrus Sports & Fitness Center support athletics and recreation. The campus also contains the Aquinas College Art Gallery and the Woods, a natural area used for environmental study.

Student life

Student life is supported by over 60 clubs and organizations, including the Student Senate, the campus ministry program Campus Ministry, and numerous academic and cultural groups. The college hosts traditional events like the Fall Fest and the Christmas at Aquinas celebration. A significant number of students participate in community service and study abroad programs, with partnerships in countries like Italy, Spain, and Costa Rica. Residential life is centered in several halls, including Bukowski Hall, Hillside Hall, and the Regina Hall complex. The Moose Cafe, located in the Wege Student Center, is a popular dining and gathering spot.

Athletics

The college's athletic teams, known as the Aquinas Saints, compete in the NAIA as members of the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference across 28 varsity sports. In 2022, the college began a transition to NCAA Division II and has been accepted into the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. Notable programs include men's basketball, women's soccer, and track and field, with teams practicing and competing at the Sturrus Sports & Fitness Center and the Aquinas Athletic Field. The mascot, Sammy Saint, appears at home games and campus events.

Notable alumni

Notable individuals who have attended the college include former Major League Baseball player and manager Sparky Anderson; U.S. Representative Peter Meijer; Michigan Supreme Court Justice Maura Corrigan; and National Football League player Jared Veldheer. Other distinguished graduates are Tonya Bauer, a member of the Michigan House of Representatives; Michele Hoitenga, also of the Michigan House of Representatives; and Amy Shaw, a news anchor for WZZM.