President's Welcome

When the Sisters of Mercy founded Gwynedd-Mercy College in 1948, they set out to create a Catholic institution that prepares students in the Mercy tradition of service to society, building lives and careers with deep meaning.  The year 2011 marks the culmination of the 150^th anniversary celebration of the Sisters of Mercy presence in our area.  It also provides an occasion to reflect on all of the accomplishments of the Sisters since their arrival to Philadelphia in 1861when they sought to help the sick and the poor and establish hospitals and educational institutions.

Gwynedd-Mercy College offers more than 40 undergraduate majors, graduate programs in business, education and nursing and accelerated degree programs for working adults.  These strong programs prepare students to become leaders in professions that will be increasing in demand and societal importance this century.  Our relationship with nearby companies provides students with unique internship opportunities and unparalleled preparation for post-graduate work and professional careers.  To expand upon global awareness and gain personal experience with other cultures, students have the opportunity to travel for service learning or study abroad.

In the U.S. News & World Report 2012 edition of “Best Colleges,” Gwynedd-Mercy College ranked in the first tier of our category, which is largely attributed to our high graduation and retention rates.

We are situated on 160 beautiful acres that combines the comfort and safety of a residential campus with close proximity to entertainment, culture and business connections in Philadelphia. Our enrollment of more than 2,600 students means we’re large enough to offer a vibrant campus life, but small enough so that professors can develop mentoring relationships with students.

Gwynedd-Mercy College students can choose to live on campus with nearly 600 of their peers among four residence halls.  There are more than 30 clubs and activities for student involvement.  We offer 19 NCAA Division III intercollegiate sports teams and a variety of intramural sports.  A turf field was recently added and is equipped with training rooms, press box, lighting for night games, snack concessions and facilities for more than 1,000 Griffin fans!

We recently launched the Gwynedd-Mercy College Futures Campaign to build upon our proud tradition of preparing distinguished Mercy graduates.  Our campaign objectives include improving upon academic excellence, endowment, student life and annual giving.  Soon, we hope to add another component to the campaign as we finalize plans for a building that will provide a new home for the School of Education and School of Business.

Whether you are a student making a college choice, a parent seeking pertinent academic or financial information, one of more than 16,000 alums wishing to learn about happenings at your alma mater, a potential donor seeking to make a wise and prudent investment, or a cyber traveler surfing the web, you are a welcome visitor.  Enjoy your journey.

President Kathleen Owens, PhD