The School of Education has a rich history and in 2025-26 commemorated 75 years of graduate education! The Master's in Education, launched in 1950, was the first graduate program established at the University of St. Thomas. The school was established to prepare teachers and school leaders at a time when Minnesota and the U.S. were experiencing significant growth in K-12 education. The university admitted women to the undergraduate program starting in 1977, and between 1950 and 1970, the School of Education awarded more than 900 degrees. Today, we are pleased to call more than 5,000 graduates alumni of the School of Education!
Sr. Maria Lamm (center) was the first person to be awarded a Master's in Secondary School Administration from the University of St. Thomas in 1957. She was of the Religious Order: School Sisters of Notre Dame, Mankato Province. She received her degree at the age of 53.
Preparing teachers and leaders since 1921
A Brief History
The University of St. Thomas has supported teacher preparation in Minnesota since 1921. Today, the School of Education welcomes students and educators from all over who are interested in teaching and leading in classrooms, schools and universities around the country.
75 Years of Graduate Education at St. Thomas
The University of St. Thomas School of Education proudly celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2025-26, marking a legacy of preparing educators and leaders who make a lasting impact in schools and communities. Since its founding, the school has been dedicated to advancing excellence in teaching, research, and service. Over the decades, it has shaped generations of teachers and educational leaders who embody the university's mission of advancing the common good. This milestone offered an opportunity to honor our history, recognize the achievements of our alumni and faculty, and look forward to the future of transformative education.
75th Anniversary Signature Event
Thank You for Joining Us for Finding Forward
On Feb. 5, 2026, renowned futurist Ulcca Joshi Hansen, President Rob Vischer, and moderator Amy Smith held a conversation about how the future of learning in an age defined by artificial intelligence and rapid change. From provocative questions about what it means to be “smart” to ideas for human-centered learning, the event featured a timely conversation on education, AI and more. Finding Forward was co-sponsored by the St. Thomas School of Education as part of our celebration of offering 75 years of graduate education. Read more about the event.
Additional 75th Anniversary Events
Thank you to all who joined us as we celebrated the 75th anniversary of the University of St. Thomas School of Education! Special events during the 2025-26 school year honored our legacy and marked this significant milestone in our history. We proudly gathered alumni, students, faculty, staff, donors, and friends to reflect on our impact and look ahead to the future of education.
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Homecoming 2025
Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025
Thanks to all who stopped by our booth at Purple on the Plaza! We enjoyed connecting with School of Education alumni and meeting new friends.
Dean's Forum
November 12, 2025
Dr. Stacie Stanley, Superintendent of Saint Paul Public Schools, offered powerful insights and a clear vision for building schools where every student belongs and is positioned for academic success. Thanks to all who were able to attend!
Faculty & Staff Open House
April 29, 2026
Former faculty and staff of the School of Education were invited to campus to connect and celebrate our 75th anniversary. More than 100 people were in attendance.
Homecoming 2025
Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025
Thanks to all who stopped by our booth at Purple on the Plaza! We enjoyed connecting with School of Education alumni and meeting new friends.
Dean's Forum
November 12, 2025
Dr. Stacie Stanley, Superintendent of Saint Paul Public Schools, offered powerful insights and a clear vision for building schools where every student belongs and is positioned for academic success. Thanks to all who were able to attend!
Faculty & Staff Open House
April 29, 2026
Former faculty and staff of the School of Education were invited to campus to connect and celebrate our 75th anniversary. More than 100 people were in attendance.
