In the heart of Delaware County, Pennsylvania, a pioneering spirit took root in 1965, blossoming into what we now celebrate as Neumann University. This year marks the 60th anniversary of its founding, a testament to the vision and determination of the Sisters of Saint Francis of Philadelphia. Their journey, filled with faith, courage, and a relentless pursuit of education, is a story worth telling. 

The Seed of an Idea

The story of Neumann University begins long before its official establishment. Neumann University’s roots can be traced back to 1871 when the first Sisters of St. Francis traveled from Philadelphia to set up their novitiate on a beautiful hill in rural Delaware County. Under the direction of Mrs. Byrnes, the Normal School to train young Sisters as teachers began in 1872. By 1892, under the guidance of Sister Eberharda Jones, OSF, the school evolved into Our Lady of Angels Higher School, offering collegiate-level courses for Sisters. 

In 1921, the school became an extension campus for Villanova College; however, the dream of an independent college was conceived by Reverend Mother Killian, OSF and Sister Eberharda, OSF. This dream was nurtured over the years, with Sisters attending institutions like Catholic University and Villanova to complete their higher education experience. 

A Vision Takes Shape 

In the mid-20th century, the directive from Pope Pius XII, emphasizing the need for religious teachers to receive degrees in higher education, ignited a renewed fervor to provide educational opportunities for the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia. Reverend Mother Mary Agnes, OSF and her Leadership Council of Sisters authorized Mother Mary Everilda, OSF the Directress of Schools, to work towards establishing a four-year college for women on the grounds of Our Lady of Angels Convent. 

Mother Everilda's correspondence with Dr. Roy J. Defferari of Catholic University was pivotal to this work. His guidance and support helped navigate the complex process of establishing a college and affiliating it with The Catholic University of America. 

The Fundraising Journey 

Raising the necessary funds to establish the college was a monumental task. The Sisters' innovative and grassroots efforts were nothing short of remarkable. Directed by Sister Francis Assisi McDade, OSF and accompanied by Sister Rose Cecilia Case, OSF, the novices and postulants recorded "Joyous Echoes," an album of spiritual and secular music, in 1962. The following year, another record, "We Sing of Christmas” was released. These records, while not covering the entire costs of the building campaign, made a significant dent in the fundraising goal. 

In addition to their musical endeavors, the Sisters hosted a series of fundraising bazaars from 1963 to 1971. These events drew thousands of community members for food, festivities, and raffles, including simple prizes like a crocheted Afghan, a General Electric iron, and even round-trip tickets to San Diego. The bazaars were a testament to the Sisters' creativity and determination. 

A Vision Realized 

By September 1962, the Sisters had reached their fundraising goal of $2.5 million. The Department of Higher Education's evaluation in February 1963 led to the granting of a charter on March 3, 1965, officially establishing Our Lady of Angels College as a four-year liberal arts college. The first classes were held in September 1965, marking the beginning of a new era in education for the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia. 

The College’s first President, Sister Mary Everilda Flynn, OSF (1965-1971), played a crucial role in establishing the college. Her leadership laid the foundation for its future growth. Following her tenure, Sister Madonna Marie Cunningham, OSF (1971-1983), opened the doors for lay students to begin attending the institution, broadening its reach and impact. Sister M. Margarella O'Neill, OSF (1989-1996), more than doubled the size of the enrollment, ensuring the college's continued expansion and legacy.

A Legacy of Risk and Courage 

The Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia, founded in 1855 by Mother Francis Bachmann, OSF under the direction of St. John Neumann, have always been guided by the principles of risk-taking and generosity. Mother Bachmann's counsel, "no risk . . . no gain," and "as long as God does not stop giving to us, we shall not stop giving to the poor," continues to inspire the sisters and the institutions they sponsor. 

Today, Neumann University, originally Our Lady of Angels College, stands as a beacon of the Sisters' commitment to Catholic and Franciscan mission and values in education. As we celebrate its 60th anniversary, we honor the pioneering spirit of the founding visionaries who dared to dream and who worked tirelessly to make that dream a reality. 

The legacy and charism of the Sisters continues to shape the minds and hearts of Neumann’s students, preparing them to make a difference in the world. Continuing and strengthening this legacy into the future requires ongoing commitment and support from the larger community of alums and friends of the University. We invite you to join us in this worthwhile endeavor, as we celebrate Neumann’s 60th Anniversary by donating to the 60th anniversary campaign.