Author: Grace Li
All photos taken by Grace Li.
Santa Clara University is the oldest operating institution of higher learning in California. It was founded in 1851 by Jesuit priests as Santa Clara College, as part of Mission Santa Clara de Asís. Jesuit founder Father John Nobili transformed the mission into a boys’ preparatory institution, and offered collegiate courses by 1853.
In 1855, Santa Clara College gained its state charter and gave California’s first bachelor’s degree in 1857. As Santa Clara College expanded its academic offerings, it became the University of Santa Clara in 1912, and offered a variety of professional schools including law and engineering.
Founded as a boys’ preparatory institution, Santa Clara University remained an all-male university for much of its early history. In 1961, however, it became the first Catholic coeducational university in California when it admitted women students.
In present day, Santa Clara University is known for being a university in the heart of Silicon Valley, blending high-tech innovation with a social consciousness grounded in the Jesuit educational tradition. They encourage a pursuit of new technology, creativity, and community engagement, guided by an entrepreneurial mindset. Their goal is to help shape the next generation of leaders and global thinkers.
The Megaphone 