Established in 1895, Saint Martin’s University is a four-year, co-educational Benedictine university located in Lacey, Wash. One of only 18 Benedictine colleges and universities in the United States and the only one west of the Rocky Mountains, the school offers coursework for both traditional and non-traditional undergraduate and graduate students, currently educating 1,505 students, 1,228 of whom are enrolled full-time.

Saint Martin’s remains proudly rooted in its unique Benedictine heritage. Founded by the monks of St. Martin’s Abbey, who are members of the oldest monastic order in Western civilization and have 1,500 years of tradition behind them, the monks remain actively engaged in the life and support of the university. Over the centuries, as teachers, artists and protectors of culture, the long record of scholarship and achievement of the Benedictines make them well suited to education.

The University began as a school educating boys and young men in college preparatory classes, plus an assortment of classical and commercial courses. College level classes were added in 1900. During the Great Depression, the school eliminated its lower grades and developed its high school and college programs. In 1938, its four-year baccalaureate program was accredited and two years later, its first graduates received their degrees.

After World War II, hundreds of veterans arrived at the College to pursue their educations with the G.I. Bill. In addition to the liberal arts curriculum, programs in accounting, business and engineering were added to meet the needs of these students.

In 1965, well ahead of many Catholic colleges and universities in the United States, Saint Martin’s became co-educational. In 1972 Saint Martin’s began to serve the needs of part-time adult students with the establishment of extension programs at nearby Ft. Lewis Army Post and McChord Air Force Base. The 1980s brought the addition of graduate courses and the creation of the Institute for Pacific Rim Studies, which has evolved into the University’s well-respected center for international programs.

In 2001 the O’Grady Library opened providing the University with a new signature building designed by noted architect Michael Graves. This past fall Spangler Hall, a new residence named for the longtime College president, David Spangler, opened its doors to students.

The 2006 inauguration of President Douglas Astolfi marks the continued evolution of the University. The University’s master plan calls for a new science, technology and engineering building, recreation center and other facilities in coming years to serve a growing student body.

Saint Martin’s has successfully navigated the educational climate for over one-hundred years, and, as the University progresses in the 21st century, it will continue to prosper.