History of Lourdes University in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 13, 2026

Lourdes University, founded in 1958 and located in Sylvania, Ohio, is a private Franciscan university. It is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania, reflecting its Franciscan values and mission. The university provides various academic programs rooted in liberal arts tradition.

1916: Mother Adelaide Sandusky Establishes Province

In 1916, Mother Adelaide Sandusky traveled from Minnesota to Northwest Ohio to establish a province of the Rochester Franciscans, which later became the Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania.

1958: Lourdes Junior College Founded

In 1958, Lourdes Junior College was founded as an extension campus of the College of St. Teresa to educate the Sisters of St. Francis.

1958: Lourdes University Established

In 1958, Lourdes University, a private Franciscan university, was established in Sylvania, Ohio, sponsored by the Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania.

1964: Accreditation by Higher Learning Commission

In 1964, the liberal arts institution, Lourdes Junior College, received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.