Hubbry Logo
Quincy UniversityQuincy UniversityMain
Open search
Quincy University
Community hub
Quincy University
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Quincy University
Quincy University
Quincy University
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Quincy University (QU) is a private Franciscan college in Quincy, Illinois, United States.[4] Founded in 1860, it has an enrollment of approximately 1,300 undergraduate and graduate students across five constituent schools.

Key Information

History

[edit]
Francis Hall Tower

1860s-1890s

[edit]

A small group of Franciscan friars left Germany in 1858 to serve the German-speaking population in what was then the frontier state of Illinois. On February 6, 1860, they founded the institution as St. Francis Solanus College. This school was established at the corner of 8th and Maine Street. Under the leadership of Fr. Anselm Mueller, who served as president for a total of 37 years beginning in 1863, the institution moved to its current location on what is now College Avenue.[5][failed verification]

Quincy University was involved in educating Army reservists and Navy cadets during World War II, and enrollment grew after the Second World War. The institution first enrolled over 1,000 students in the late 1950s. In response to this enrollment growth, several new buildings were planned and put up during the 1950s and 1960s. 

From its founding, Quincy University has embraced a deep commitment to the liberal arts while recognizing the importance of professional programs. The earliest course catalogs, from the 1870s, combined a strong focus on the liberal arts with courses in accounting and other "commercial" programs. Quincy University continues to offer majors in the liberal arts and in the professions.[citation needed] 

1900s-1990s

[edit]

Quincy University typically enrolled under 300 students until the 1930s. The first woman enrolled at the institution in the 1920s,[5] and women were regularly admitted beginning in 1932. From the 1870s until the 1950s, the great majority of campus courses and activities occurred in Francis Hall, a large building renowned for its beauty and strong German architectural influences.[citation needed]

Following two other name changes during the twentieth century, the current name, Quincy University, was adopted in 1993.[5] The university name was used in part to recognize the addition of graduate programs.[citation needed]

The Franciscan friars made up the majority of the faculty until the late twentieth century. The distinctive Franciscan intellectual tradition remains central to the institution's mission and values. Since the founding of the institution, many Franciscan friars in the Midwest have been educated at Quincy University. Today, the institution is home to people of all faiths, who are welcomed in the Franciscan tradition of hospitality.[tone]

2000s-present

[edit]

In 2016 the institution announced that it was having significant financial issues. At the time of the announcement the school was running a $5 million deficit.[6] A plan was developed to cut costs, and major donors helped get the institution past the crisis.[7] In November 2018, the institution received $2.25 million from the U.S. Department of Education to expand students' access to science, technology, engineering and math.[8]

In 2020, the institution initiated its distinctive Success by Design program, in which each undergraduate student completes and annually updates an individualized student success plan. The program also emphasizes high-impact learning experiences, such as undergraduate research and internships, along with multiple sources of mentoring and advising.[9]

In 2021, the Oakley family of Quincy announced a $6.5 million gift to the institution which included naming of the Oakley School of Business. This gift is more than double the previous largest gift to the institution.[10]

Academics

[edit]
John 'Pete' Brown Mock Trial Courtroom
Quincy Media Inc. Broadcast Studio at QU's North Campus.

Quincy University is organized into five schools:

  • School of Fine Arts & Communication
  • School of Humanities
  • School of Science and Technology
  • Oakley School of Business[10]
  • School of Education & Human Services

At the undergraduate level, QU requires completion of the Bonaventure general education program, which includes a significant service requirement for all students. Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees are offered in 46 major areas of concentration. The institution also supports a variety of non-degree programs and multiple degree-completion options for non-traditional students. Courses are offered in traditional, online, or hybrid formats. 

At the graduate level, QU offers a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree, a Master of Science in education (M.S.Ed.) degree and a (M.S. Ed) Master of Science in education in counseling degree. The MBA degree is offered entirely online. 

Classroom technologies and resources are tailored to the needs of specific academic programs. New or updated and renovated laboratories in computer science, cybersecurity, business analytics, biology, and chemistry are available, as is the John “Pete” Brown Mock Trial courtroom.

Accreditations

[edit]

Quincy University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. QU also has specialized accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).

Campus

[edit]

Quincy University's compact, walkable campus is located in a residential area, a few blocks away from Quincy's Broadway Avenue shopping and business district. Public transit service to campus is provided by Quincy Transit Lines.

Historic Francis Hall is at the center of campus and was built and expanded between 1871 and 1898. The campus also features distinctive examples of Mid-Century modern architecture in its residence halls and classroom and administration buildings. Friar's Field, a large lawn that held various athletic fields during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, now creates a park-like setting for the campus. The newest additions to campus include a large health and fitness center and an apartment-style residence hall.

The historic campus holds several noteworthy traditional and contemporary public art installations. The Brenner Library includes the highly regarded Gray Gallery, which features art exhibitions throughout the year.

The chapel was built in 1911 and has been renovated on several occasions. The chapel design was shortened and modified to preserve the baseball field then located just to the north of Francis Hall.

A former Franciscan seminary is now part of Quincy University, just a few minutes to the north of the institution's historic campus. Now called the North Campus, this extensively renovated facility houses most of the Division of Science and Technology, the Connie Niemann Center for Music,[11] and the Quincy Media Inc. television studio.[12] The institution's soccer stadium and softball complex are located adjacent to the North Campus. The football stadium and baseball field are part of the main campus and feature distinctive limestone walls. The football and baseball facilities were built in the 1930s and have been extensively renovated.

Campus life at Quincy University involves several student clubs and activities, including three Greek-letter organizations. Greek houses are located on campus.

Each year, the Inaugural ceremony brings together faculty, staff, new students, and parents to celebrate the beginning of the college experience for new students. Following a procession by the faculty in academic regalia, the ceremony takes place in St. Francis Solanus Church, a Franciscan parish located across the street from Quincy University.

Students and alumni

[edit]

The student body at Quincy University is about 52% men and 48% women. Most students come from Illinois and Missouri, but several other states in the Midwest and South are well represented at QU. Over 15,000 Quincy University alumni live in all 50 states and 12 foreign countries.

Athletics

[edit]
Main article: Quincy Hawks

Quincy University is a member of NCAA Division II and has been a part of the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) for most sports since the 1995–96 school year. Men's volleyball competes in the Midwestern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association as a de facto member of NCAA Division I.[a] Sprint football, a weight-restricted form of American football that is not governed by the NCAA, will become QU's newest varsity sport in fall 2022.[13] Several teams have had significant national success, with men's soccer winning 11 NAIA national championships.[citation needed]

Notable alumni

[edit]

References

[edit]

Notes

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Quincy University

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Quincy University is a private Catholic liberal arts university in , founded on February 6, 1860, as St. Francis Solanus College by Franciscan friars in the tradition of St. Francis of Assisi. Originally established to educate young men for the priesthood and lay professions, it has evolved into a coeducational institution offering bachelor's and master's degrees to approximately 1,300 students from across the and internationally (as of fall 2025). With a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio and average class sizes of 14, the university emphasizes personalized education, real-world experiences like internships at organizations such as and the FBI, and study abroad opportunities in locations including and . Rooted in Franciscan values, Quincy University's mission, updated in 2025, is to serve as a Franciscan, Catholic, and liberal arts institution emphasizing the development of servant-leaders. Its vision, also updated in 2025, is informed by Franciscan and Catholic intellectual traditions, committing to the development of the whole person to provide individuals with the knowledge, skills, values, and experiences necessary to become servant-leaders with integrity, empathy, and a commitment to the . The university maintains a strong commitment to , with 100% student participation, and integrates faith-based activities into campus life. Historically, the institution received its charter from the state of in 1873 to award and degrees, achieved accreditation from the North Central Association in 1954, and underwent key name changes—becoming and in and Quincy University in 1993. Notable milestones include the introduction of its MBA program in 1984, MS in Education in 1991, and the opening of the of Business in 2021, alongside athletic achievements such as 11 NAIA national soccer championships starting in 1966 and a title in 1985. Today, Quincy University supports 21 sports teams and boasts a 90%+ graduate placement rate into jobs or graduate school within six months of completion.

History

Founding and early development (1860–1899)

Quincy University traces its origins to February 6, 1860, when Franciscan friars from the Sacred Heart Province established St. Francis Solanus College in , as an institution dedicated to the higher education of boys and young men under the direction of the . Named after the 17th-century Franciscan missionary St. Francis Solanus, known for his evangelization efforts among in , the college began classes in a modest building at the corner of 8th and Streets, initially serving the area's growing German Catholic immigrant community. As the diocesan college for the Catholic of Alton, it quickly became a center for Catholic education in the Midwest, with friars also beginning to teach in the adjacent St. Francis Solanus parish school by 1865 to address local educational needs. The early curriculum centered on a classical liberal arts foundation, incorporating to uphold the Catholic intellectual tradition, alongside practical elements such as preparation for parish schools and commercial courses like to meet the demands of the immigrant . This approach reflected the Franciscan emphasis on holistic formation, blending academic rigor with spiritual development and service-oriented values, including care for the underserved German-speaking Catholics in Quincy. Enrollment grew steadily in the initial decades, supported by the college's role in fostering community ties, though specific figures from the period highlight its modest yet expanding scale as a regional educational hub. Key developments in the 1870s marked the college's maturation, including the 1871 construction of the original Francis Hall—now the east wing of the current structure—after classes had shifted through three temporary locations, providing a stable campus foundation. In 1873, the State of formally chartered the institution, authorizing it to confer and degrees, which affirmed its academic legitimacy and aligned with its mission to promote Franciscan ideals of intellectual pursuit and communal service. In 1878, , who would become the first African American Catholic priest in the United States, enrolled at the college. By the 1890s, these advancements had positioned St. Francis Solanus College as a vital pillar of Catholic higher education in 19th-century , with extracurricular activities like the 1895 formation of the team signaling a broadening student life.

Expansion and challenges (1900–1999)

In 1917, St. Francis Solanus College was renamed and Seminary to reflect growing community involvement and support from local laypeople. This change marked a shift toward broader institutional identity while maintaining its Franciscan roots. In 1932, the college introduced co-education by admitting women as full-time day students for the first time, expanding access and diversifying its student body beyond the previous male-only focus. The institution faced significant challenges during the early 20th century, including enrollment stagnation during the , when student numbers remained below 300. World War II further strained resources from 1941 to 1945, as male enrollment plummeted due to ; the college sustained operations by training naval cadets and reservists under government programs. Economic pressures in the 1970s also led to enrollment fluctuations amid national recession, prompting efforts to bolster financial stability through enhanced Franciscan order involvement and community fundraising. Post-World War II, Quincy College experienced notable expansion in academic programs and infrastructure. The era saw diversification into business, natural sciences, and majors to meet regional demands, alongside construction of key facilities such as Memorial Gymnasium in 1950 (later renamed Arena) and Augustine Hall dormitory in 1957–1958. In 1954, the college achieved regional accreditation from the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, validating its academic standards and enabling further growth. Enrollment surged, reaching 1,000 students for the first time in 1959, reflecting increased demand for higher education. The 1960s and 1970s brought continued development, with new buildings including Woods Hall dormitory (1958), Centennial Hall (now Helein Hall) in 1960, Hall in 1966, Brenner Library in 1967, and a soccer field (now Legends Stadium) in 1978. Program offerings expanded to include athletics like men's golf, cross country, track, and starting in 1958, and soccer in 1964, fostering a more vibrant campus life. In the , amid ongoing economic challenges, the introduction of the program in 1984 and approval of the in Education in 1991 diversified graduate options and helped stabilize finances through Franciscan sponsorship. By the 1990s, enrollment had grown significantly, supporting the institution's transition to university status. In 1993, it was officially renamed Quincy University to recognize the addition of advanced degree programs and its evolving role as a comprehensive liberal arts institution.

Recent developments (2000–present)

In 2016, Quincy University faced a significant , projecting a $5 million budget shortfall for fiscal year 2017 following a $1.4 million deficit the previous year, which prompted cuts including 14 non-faculty positions and the elimination of programs like women's swimming. To address the deficit, the university implemented a five-year financial recovery plan that included permanent expense reductions, operational efficiencies, and a $7 million campaign launched in early 2017, which reached about 30% completion within months through key donations such as $1 million from an anonymous donor. Additional support came from Franciscan-affiliated entities, including a $300,000 gift from the Franciscan Province of the Sacred Heart in February 2017 and another $300,000 investment from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield in Illinois in May 2017, bolstering the recovery efforts. Leadership transitioned with the appointment of McGee as the 24th president in December 2018, who assumed office on July 1, 2019, succeeding interim president Phil Conover and guiding the institution through sustained stabilization. Key strategic initiatives marked the post-2016 era, including the award of a $2.25 million Title III Strengthening Institutions grant from the U.S. Department of in October 2018, the largest in university history at the time, aimed at expanding STEM access through new degree programs in cybersecurity and , enhanced math support for underprepared students, and facility upgrades like an expanded robotics lab. In September 2019, Quincy University launched the Success by Design retention program, which rolled out fully in fall 2020 and incorporated holistic student support elements such as individualized success plans, a house system for residence halls, career readiness advising, and academic coaching to promote on-time graduation and post-graduation preparation. Philanthropic momentum continued with a transformative $6.5 million gift from the Oakley family in September 2021, the largest single donation in institutional history, which renamed the School of Business as the Oakley School of Business and funded scholarships, faculty development, and facility enhancements to support business education and student success. Recent milestones underscore the university's resurgence, with fall 2025 marking a modern record of 431 new undergraduate students, including 313 freshmen—an 18% increase from the prior year—and the highest transfer cohort since 2000, contributing to overall enrollment stability amid national higher education challenges. Fundraising reached unprecedented levels in the 2024–2025 fiscal year, totaling $19,009,321 across unrestricted and restricted gifts, more than double the previous record and enabling expanded scholarships, program investments, and infrastructure improvements. The annual QU Fund campaign also exceeded its $1.5 million goal, raising $1.55 million from over 3,400 donors in 2024–2025, surpassing the prior year's record and supporting immediate student needs like emergency aid and academic resources. Adaptations to contemporary educational trends include the integration of in teaching and learning, as highlighted in the university's Spring 2025 QUniverse publication, which notes AI's role in transforming and experiences with ongoing adjustments to curricula and assessments. Amid national declines in Catholic higher education enrollment—exemplified by closures like in 2025 due to financial pressures—Quincy University has maintained an ongoing emphasis on its Franciscan mission, integrating values of service, ethical leadership, and community engagement into programs while achieving enrollment growth and serving a diverse body of all faiths.

Academics

Programs and schools

Quincy University organizes its academic offerings into five schools: the School of Fine Arts and Communication, the Oakley School of Business, the and Human Services, the School of Humanities, and the School of Science and Technology. These schools collectively provide 45 undergraduate majors, along with 38 minors and various certificates, fostering a liberal arts foundation integrated with professional preparation. Undergraduate programs span diverse fields, with key offerings including the in Biology in the School of Science and Technology, which emphasizes hands-on laboratory work and research opportunities; the in Business Administration in the Oakley School of Business, focusing on , , and ; the in Elementary Education in the School of Education and Human Services, preparing students for teaching licensure through clinical experiences; and the , which combines clinical training with simulations in the School of Science and Technology. Graduate programs include the (MBA), available fully online or in-person and completable in one year, and the in Education, also offered fully online or in-person with specializations in areas like curriculum and instruction. The Bonaventure Program serves as the university's general curriculum, requiring all undergraduates to complete foundational courses in , sciences, , , and by the end of their sophomore year, with flexibility for fine arts requirements. Named after the 13th-century Franciscan scholar St. Bonaventure, it emphasizes Catholic and Franciscan values such as respect, justice, peace, and service, while incorporating an course to develop for personal, professional, and social contexts; the program promotes interdisciplinary learning by encouraging exploration of natural and human phenomena through multiple perspectives and reflection on ultimate questions. Quincy University prioritizes , with 100% of students participating in activities such as internships, undergraduate research, and projects coordinated through the QUEST Center; integrates with academic coursework to foster , while study abroad opportunities—ranging from short-term trips to semester-long programs—enhance global perspectives and are accessible to all majors. Recent additions post-2020 include the minor and major in the School of Science and Technology, partnering with local flight schools for pilot training, and the Cybersecurity minor, which builds on foundations to address growing industry demands. As of fall 2025, Quincy University has a total enrollment of approximately 1,500 students, reflecting steady growth trends with 431 new undergraduates, including the largest freshman class in over 30 years (313 students, an 18% increase from the prior year) and the most transfer students since 2011 (118).

Accreditations and rankings

Quincy University holds regional accreditation from the (HLC), a commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, which it has maintained since 1954 as a four-year institution. The university's accreditation status reflects ongoing compliance with HLC standards for academic quality, institutional effectiveness, and continuous improvement, with recent approvals for doctoral programs in and , granted in 2025 by the HLC and set to begin in January 2026 pending professional accreditation candidacy from ACOTE and CAPTE. Preparation for the next comprehensive HLC review included an assurance argument submitted in 2023, focusing on assessment practices and institutional planning. In addition to institutional accreditation, specific programs at Quincy University have earned targeted recognitions. The teacher licensure programs, including school counseling, are fully accredited by the Illinois State Board of Education, ensuring alignment with state standards for educator preparation. The in in Counseling program holds national accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), a distinction achieved in 2017 that positions it as the only such program within a 90-mile radius. Quincy University is ranked #35 out of 89 in the Regional Colleges Midwest category by for the 2026 edition, based on factors such as graduation rates, faculty resources, and student selectivity. It also ranks #14 in Best Value Schools within the same category, highlighting affordability relative to academic outcomes. The university maintains an endowment supporting long-term financial health and programmatic investments. Student retention metrics have shown improvement through initiatives like Success by Design, launched in 2019 to enhance holistic student support; the fall-to-fall freshman retention rate rose by 7 percentage points for the 2024 cohort compared to the prior year, reaching 63% overall as reported in the university's Common Data Set. Following a financial shortfall of $5 million in 2016 that led to staff reductions and budget restructuring, Quincy University has achieved greater stability, evidenced by record fundraising totals exceeding $19 million in the 2024-2025 fiscal year. This recovery supports ongoing HLC compliance and institutional resilience without specific sanctions noted in recent reviews.

Campus

Physical layout and facilities

Quincy University's 70-acre campus is situated in an urban setting in , along the , providing scenic views and a connection to the region's . The park-like grounds feature ample green spaces, walking paths, and a walkable layout that encourages exploration on foot. The campus is divided into the main historic core, centered around traditional architecture, and the North Campus at 18th Street and Seminary Road, spanning 18 acres with modern infrastructure dedicated to academics and athletics. This division allows for a blend of preserved heritage and contemporary development within a residential neighborhood just blocks from the city's Broadway Avenue shopping and business district. At the heart of the main campus stands Francis Hall, a building whose east wing dates to 1871 and was expanded through the late to accommodate growing enrollment. This structure serves as an administrative hub and exemplifies the university's early , featuring a central and a statue of installed in 2000. Adjacent landmarks include the Brenner Library, a key resource for research and collections related to the university's Franciscan heritage, which also houses the Gray Gallery for rotating art exhibitions by regional and national artists. These historic elements contribute to the campus's cohesive aesthetic, blending 19th-century design with functional academic spaces. Modern facilities enhance the campus's infrastructure, particularly through developments on the North Campus. The for Science, renovated in the 2010s with a $2 million gift and fully dedicated in 2024, houses advanced STEM laboratories equipped for hands-on research in , chemistry, and related fields. Recent upgrades to classrooms and hubs across campus have been bolstered by the Oakley family's $6.5 million donation in 2021—the largest in university history—which supported academic facility improvements alongside scholarships and the renaming of the . Athletic venues, such as the Arena and Health and Fitness Center opened in 2001, provide spaces for recreation and competition. Sustainability efforts at Quincy University draw from its Franciscan roots, emphasizing environmental stewardship in line with St. Francis of Assisi's reverence for creation. Initiatives include energy-efficient retrofits and technology upgrades funded by grants, such as a $50,000 award from Illinois in 2018 for building renovations, building on a prior $15,000 grant in 2015. These projects focus on reducing and promoting eco-friendly practices across campus facilities, aligning with broader Franciscan environmental commitments.

Housing and student services

Quincy University provides a variety of on-campus options designed to support development and , with seven residence halls accommodating approximately 800 , or about 69% of the undergraduate population. These include traditional double-occupancy dorms such as Garner Hall, which houses 140 first-year women and features renovated kitchens, lounges, and laundry facilities, and Helein Hall for first-year men with recreational amenities like a lounge and fire pit. Other options encompass single-room halls like Friars Hall for upperclass women and Hall for men, as well as suite-style living in Willer Hall for sophomores and juniors, and apartment-style accommodations in the Student Living Center (92 beds for upperclassmen, with kitchens and security features) and Woods Apartments (furnished units with private bedrooms). To enhance residential life, the university implemented a house system in fall 2020, assigning all undergraduates to one of seven themed living-learning communities—Cavallo, Padberg, Lyke, Mueller, Bliss, Tolton, and Brinkman—named after key figures in its Franciscan tradition and history. First-year residents' houses align with their hall floors to promote immediate connections, while the system extends to commuters and off-campus students through faculty-staff mentorship, inter-house competitions, and service activities focused on academic success and personal growth as part of the Success by Design initiative. Dining services center around the Hawks Dining Hall, the primary offering flexible meal plans with diverse options including homemade soups, deli sandwiches, a 30-item , and grab-and-go stations managed by Chartwells Higher Education, which earned national recognition for its operations in 2018. Recent enhancements, such as a dedicated gluten-free station introduced in September 2025, address dietary needs and promote inclusive meal experiences. Health and wellness resources include the on-campus Student Health & Well-Being Clinic in Friars Hall, providing free behavioral health counseling through Quincy Medical Group with in-person sessions at 1101 Street and options available Monday through Friday; additional support comes from the NAMI on Campus chapter and wellness initiatives emphasizing amid enrollment growth. The Health and Fitness Center, opened in 2001, offers recreational facilities to complement these services. Student support services are centralized through the J. Kenneth Nesbit Student Success Center, which delivers free for most courses, writing workshops, and the Success by Design program featuring success coaches to aid academic planning and personal challenges. The Career Services Center provides resume assistance, internship placements, and job search resources to facilitate post-graduation transitions. International students receive dedicated guidance via the admissions office, including visa support and cultural integration programs integrated into the broader success framework. Accessibility is prioritized through the Office of Disability Services, ensuring full ADA compliance with reasonable accommodations such as extended testing time, adaptive , and note-taking services; this includes ramps, elevators, and renovated facilities across campus.

Student life

Demographics and enrollment

Quincy University had an undergraduate enrollment of 1,072 as of fall 2024, with total enrollment including graduates approximately 1,200; enrollment grew in fall 2025 with 431 new undergraduates, including 313 freshmen and 118 transfers. The student body is composed of 57% male and 43% female students as of fall 2024. About 40% of students hail from , with the remainder drawn from various U.S. states and international origins; the university hosts students from 18 countries, contributing to its global perspective. Racial and ethnic demographics, based on 2024 data, show approximately 65% students, 11% or African American, 9% or Latino, 8% international, and 6% unknown or other groups. Enrollment trends at Quincy University demonstrate steady growth and recovery in recent years. The Fall 2025 semester marked a record with 431 new undergraduates, including 313 freshmen from 26 states and 11 countries—an 18% increase in freshmen from the previous year—and 118 transfers, the highest transfer cohort since 2011. Historically, total enrollment expanded from around 1,000 students in 2000 to a peak during the , followed by a dip around 2016, and a subsequent rebound post-2020, supported by strategic recruitment and retention efforts. The university's Franciscan heritage underscores a commitment to inclusivity and diversity, fostering an environment that embraces differences through and for all individuals. This is reflected in initiatives such as scholarships targeted at underrepresented groups, including the QU Illinois Tuition Promise program, which covers tuition and books for eligible low-income residents using federal, state, and institutional aid. Quincy University boasts an network exceeding 15,000 individuals across all 50 U.S. states and 19 countries, enhancing its global reach and support for diverse communities. Student success metrics include a first-year retention rate of 75% as of 2024, indicating strong persistence among incoming undergraduates. The six-year graduation rate stands at 45%, with ongoing efforts to improve outcomes through personalized support aligned with Franciscan values.

Campus organizations and traditions

Quincy University supports a vibrant array of over 30 student organizations, fostering leadership, academic growth, and community involvement among its undergraduates. The Student Government Association (SGA) serves as the primary representative body, advocating for student interests, organizing events, and collaborating with university administration to enhance campus life. Academic and honors societies include Alpha Phi Sigma for majors, for students, and Lambda Pi Eta for communication scholars, each recognizing excellence in their respective fields through inductions and professional development opportunities. Cultural and diversity-focused groups promote inclusivity and awareness, such as the Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA), which addresses LGBTQ+ issues, and the Connection club, which raises funds and awareness for Haitian communities while encouraging global perspectives. Greek life remains limited, with the Epsilon Sigma chapter of providing a women's fraternity experience centered on sisterhood, , and leadership since its establishment on campus, alongside the fraternity, introduced in 2022 to expand opportunities for men in service-oriented brotherhood. Enduring traditions at Quincy University reflect its Franciscan heritage, emphasizing service, reflection, and community. Franciscan Heritage Week, observed annually in early October, features events like praise and worship services, daily reflections on Franciscan values, and a Feast Day Mass for held in the St. Francis Solanus Chapel. The university's Day of Service, marking its tenth anniversary in 2025, unites students, faculty, and staff in volunteer projects across the local Quincy community, embodying the Franciscan call to action and care for others. Campus ministry programs enrich spiritual life through inclusive worship, including daily Masses at 12:15 p.m. in the Friary and services at 10 a.m., 6 p.m., and 8 p.m. in the , alongside retreats, RCIA sessions, and scripture study groups open to all faiths. Interfaith welcoming is a core principle, with programs designed to support diverse spiritual journeys while rooted in Catholic and Franciscan traditions. events, hosted by the Ward and DeWitt Library of Fine Arts, include exhibitions at the Gray Gallery, such as the 2023 Eucharistic Art show featuring Catholic artists, blending creative expression with cultural and spiritual themes. Community engagement is integral, with Campus Ministry organizing local and regional mission trips for hands-on service, such as habitat builds and aid distribution, to live out Gospel-inspired action. All incoming first-year undergraduates are required to complete 30 hours of approved activities prior to graduation, integrating academic coursework with community needs like food drives and volunteer coaching to cultivate lifelong commitment to service.

Athletics

Teams and conference affiliation

Quincy University, a member of the (NCAA) Division II, sponsors 28 varsity intercollegiate athletic teams. The Hawks field programs in sports such as , soccer, , and , with the university's being the and its official colors brown and white. The university has been a member of the (GLVC) since 1994, competing in this league across most of its athletic programs. Prior to joining the GLVC, Quincy competed primarily in the NAIA, marking its full transition to competition with this affiliation. Quincy's athletic department emphasizes the balance between academic success and athletic participation, in line with principles that view intercollegiate sports as an essential component of the overall educational mission. The program provides dedicated academic support services, including tutoring and study halls, to help student-athletes achieve high graduation rates while competing. To ensure compliance with and promote gender equity in athletics, Quincy has maintained roughly equal participation opportunities for male and female students, with ongoing expansions to women's programs. Women's intercollegiate athletics began with the addition of in 1972, shortly after the enactment of , and further teams were introduced throughout the to enhance opportunities for female athletes. Approximately 522 student-athletes participate in varsity sports annually, comprising about 40% of the undergraduate student body of roughly 1,000.

Facilities and notable achievements

Quincy University's athletic facilities support a wide range of NCAA Division II programs within the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC). The Bank of Springfield Aquatic Center, unveiled in 2023, serves as the home for the men's and women's swimming and diving teams, featuring competitive lanes, expansive locker rooms, and support for both varsity and recreational activities. QU Stadium, renovated with a $4 million investment in 2014 and further upgraded in 2025 with new dugouts and seating, hosts football and baseball competitions, accommodating up to 2,500 fans across its synthetic turf fields and nostalgic grandstands. Legends Stadium, located on the north campus, is the venue for men's and women's soccer, providing dedicated fields for GLVC matches and tournaments. The Mart Heinen Softball Complex supports the women's softball team with dugouts, a press box, concessions, and bleacher seating for home games. The Hawks have secured multiple GLVC championships across various sports, highlighting the program's competitive success. In baseball, the team captured its fifth conference title in 2023, dominating the championship game en route to a strong postseason run. Women's basketball achieved its third GLVC tournament crown in 2025, defeating the competition 64-60 in the final to earn an automatic NCAA bid. Since transitioning to NCAA Division II in 1996, Quincy has made numerous NCAA tournament appearances in sports including , , and , contributing to the university's reputation for postseason contention. The Quincy University Sports Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding contributors to the athletic program through annual inductions. The Fall 2025 class included ten individuals and one team, honored during a ceremony on October 25 in the Hall of Fame Room at QU Health and Fitness Center. Notable past inductees encompass the 1954-1955 men's team, celebrated for its undefeated regular season and lasting impact on Hawks basketball history. In 2025, the football team was projected for a top-four GLVC finish in the preseason coaches' poll, reflecting high expectations after a 5-5 overall record and 3-4 conference mark that kept playoff hopes alive into late season. The team finished the 2025 season with a 6-5 overall record and 4-4 in conference play. The Hawk Express Jazz Band has enhanced athletic events by performing at select home games and community gatherings tied to sports traditions, adding cultural vibrancy to the campus experience.

Notable alumni

  • Venerable Augustus Tolton (c. 1854–1897), the first African-American Catholic priest in the United States, attended St. Francis Solanus College (now Quincy University) in the late 1870s.
  • John Mahoney (1940–2018), Tony Award-winning actor best known for his role as Martin Crane on the television sitcom Frasier, graduated from Quincy College in 1966.
  • James Pankow (b. 1947), founding member, trombonist, and songwriter for the rock band Chicago, attended Quincy College on a music scholarship in the mid-1960s before transferring.
  • Rick Hummel (1946–2023), Hall of Fame baseball writer for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, attended Quincy College for two years in the mid-1960s.
  • Francis G. Slay (b. 1955), longest-serving mayor of St. Louis, Missouri (2001–2017), earned a degree in political science from Quincy University in 1977.
  • Josh Kinney (b. 1980), former Major League Baseball pitcher who played for the St. Louis Cardinals during their 2006 World Series championship, graduated from Quincy University in 2001.
  • Glenn Jacobs (b. 1967), professional wrestler known as Kane in WWE and mayor of Knox County, Tennessee (since 2018), attended Quincy University on a basketball scholarship.

References

  1. https://www.quincy.edu/history-of-qu/
  2. https://www.quincy.edu/about-qu/
  3. https://www.quincy.edu/qu-unveils-new-mission-vision-and-values-statements/
  4. https://catalog.quincy.edu/content.php?catoid=5&navoid=190
  5. https://research.com/best-colleges/quincy-university
  6. https://www.quincy.edu/academics/archives/
  7. https://www.whig.com/archive/article/once-upon-a-time-in-quincy-quincy-university-a-community-treasure/article_c8863635-ba98-5810-a4b7-48d10122589f.html
  8. https://www.hsqac.org/quincy-university-a-glance-at-a-community-treasuree9471ceb/
  9. https://www.quincy.edu/academics/quincy-university-undergraduate-programs/
  10. https://www.quincy.edu/academics/academics/
  11. https://catalog.quincy.edu/content.php?catoid=5&navoid=206
  12. https://www.quincy.edu/academics/graduate-programs/
  13. https://catalog.quincy.edu/content.php?catoid=5&navoid=201
  14. https://catalog.quincy.edu/content.php?catoid=9&navoid=406
  15. https://www.quincy.edu/quest-center/
  16. https://www.quincy.edu/academics/service-learning/
  17. https://www.quincy.edu/student-life/study-abroad/
  18. https://catalog.quincy.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=5&poid=452&returnto=222
  19. https://www.quincy.edu/quincy-university-breaks-another-enrollment-record/
  20. https://www.quincy.edu/
  21. https://www.quincy.edu/about-qu/mission-and-vision/accreditation-at-quincy-university/
  22. https://www.quincy.edu/qu-is-approved-to-offer-doctoral-programs-in-occupational-therapy-and-physical-therapy/
  23. https://www.quincy.edu/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/May_-2021_Vol3_Iss7.pdf
  24. https://www.quincy.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Website-Accreditation-for-SOE.pdf
  25. https://www.quincy.edu/qu-counseling-program-receives-national-accreditation/
  26. https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/quincy-university-1745
  27. https://www.quincy.edu/quincy-university-launches-success-design-initiative/
  28. https://www.quincy.edu/quincy-university-announces-fall-2024-enrollment/
  29. https://www.quincy.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/CDS_UNL2_2023_2024-QU-final-amended-8-05-24.pdf
  30. https://www.sj-r.com/story/news/education/2016/12/11/quincy-university-cuts-14-jobs/24283212007/
  31. https://www.quincy.edu/qu-announces-record-breaking-fundraising-year/
  32. https://www.hlcommission.org/for-students/accreditation-actions/january-2023/
  33. https://qumedia.net/2020/02/25/how-to-navigate-qus-north-campus/
  34. https://www.quincy.edu/brenner-library/
  35. https://www.quincy.edu/gray-gallery/
  36. https://www.quincy.edu/quincy-university-dedicates-ryan-center-for-science/
  37. https://www.wgem.com/2021/09/15/quincy-university-receives-65m-gift-business-school-gets-new-name/
  38. https://www.quincy.edu/about-qu/mission-and-vision/
  39. https://www.quincy.edu/quincy-university-receives-50k-ameren-illinois/
  40. https://www.franciscansusa.org/franciscan-earth-care-initiative/
  41. https://www.quincy.edu/student-life/residence-life/residence-halls/
  42. https://collegeiq.com/colleges/quincy-university/housing
  43. https://www.quincy.edu/qu-adopts-house-system-beginning-fall-2020/
  44. https://catalog.quincy.edu/content.php?catoid=3&navoid=100
  45. https://www.quincy.edu/student-life/dining-services/
  46. https://www.quincy.edu/qu-dining-services-earns-national-award/
  47. https://qumedia.net/2025/09/20/quincy-universitys-cafeteria-expands-dining-options-with-gluten-free-station/
  48. https://www.quincy.edu/student-life/wellness-center/
  49. https://www.quincymedgroup.com/location/quincy-university-1832-elm-st-quincy-il-usa/friars-hall-room-113?referrer=1648669
  50. https://www.quincy.edu/student-life/
  51. https://www.quincy.edu/student-life/health-and-fitness-center/
  52. https://www.quincy.edu/academics/academic-services/tutoring-services/
  53. https://www.quincy.edu/academics/academic-services/student-success-center/
  54. https://www.quincy.edu/academics/career-services-center/
  55. https://www.quincy.edu/admissions/international-students/
  56. https://www.quincy.edu/academics/academic-services/ada-support/
  57. https://www.collegetuitioncompare.com/trends/quincy-university/student-population/
  58. https://www.quincy.edu/admissions/qu-illinois-tuition-promise-program/
  59. https://www.quincy.edu/alumni/
  60. https://www.quincy.edu/student-life/student-life/
  61. https://qumedia.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/SGA-Constitution-2017-FINAL.pdf
  62. https://www.quincy.edu/student-life/clubs-and-organizations/
  63. https://www.quincy.edu/student-life/clubs-and-organizations/greek-life/alpha-omicron-pi/
  64. https://muddyrivernews.com/top-stories/qu-adds-fraternity-sorority-university-hopes-to-raise-175000-to-upgrade-houses-on-18th-street/20220814075500/
  65. https://www.quincy.edu/qu-celebrates-franciscan-heritage-week/
  66. https://qumedia.net/2025/10/10/quincy-universitys-community-based-tradition-celebrates-its-tenth-anniversary/
  67. https://www.quincy.edu/student-life/campus-ministry/worship/
  68. https://www.quincy.edu/student-life/campus-ministry/
  69. https://www.quincy.edu/qu-gray-gallery-to-host-word-made-flesh-eucharistic-art-exhibition/
  70. https://www.quincy.edu/student-life/campus-ministry/service-opportunities-and-clubs/
  71. https://quhawks.com/sports/2021/8/20/athletic-communications.aspx
  72. https://glvcsports.com/index.aspx?path=quincy
  73. https://www.quincy.edu/four-primary-symbols-of-quincy-university/
  74. https://www.quincy.edu/quincy-university-launches-sprint-football-program/
  75. https://glvcsports.com/news/2013/9/11/MSOC_0911133414.aspx
  76. https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sidearm.nextgen.sites/hawks.quincy.edu/documents/2025/3/12/STUDENT_ATHLETE_HANDBOOK_March_11_2025.pdf
  77. https://quhawks.com/news/2024/6/25/general-over-200-hawks-honored-on-academic-all-glvc-list.aspx
  78. https://www.quincy.edu/title-ix/
  79. https://www.quincy.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/qu-eada-6-1-22-5-31-23.pdf
  80. https://www.quincy.edu/quincy-university-unveils-bos-aquatic-center/
  81. https://quhawks.com/sports/2010/12/27/FB_1227101536.aspx
  82. https://www.wgem.com/2025/05/06/new-dugouts-seating-coming-qu-stadium/
  83. https://quhawks.com/sports/2014/2/7/MSOC_0207144707.aspx
  84. https://quhawks.com/sports/2010/12/27/SB_1227102133.aspx
  85. https://glvcsports.com/news/2023/5/14/quincy-crowned-glvc-baseball-champions-for-fifth-time.aspx
  86. https://glvcsports.com/news/2025/3/10/championships-quincy-wins-third-glvc-womens-basketball-championship-tournament-crown.aspx
  87. https://glvcsports.com/news/2019/5/28/general-40-40-2000-quincy-baseball.aspx
  88. https://www.quincy.edu/qu-inducts-fall-2025-sports-hall-of-fame-class/
  89. https://quhawks.com/honors/hall-of-fame
  90. https://quhawks.com/news/2025/8/1/hawks-slotted-fourth-in-2025-glvc-football-preseason-poll.aspx
  91. https://glvcsports.com/standings.aspx?path=football
  92. https://quhawks.com/sports/football/schedule
  93. https://www.quincy.edu/qu-hawk-express-jazz-band-to-perform-fall-jazz-concert-2/
  94. https://www.quincy.edu/?p=35304
  95. https://www.quincy.edu/qu-receives-largest-endowment-gift-memory-john-mahoney/
  96. https://chicagotheband.com/news/james-pankow-receives-lifetime-achievement-award/
  97. https://quhawks.com/honors/hall-of-fame/rick-hummel/201
  98. https://www.quincy.edu/francis-slay-deliver-qus-155th-commencement-address/
  99. https://quhawks.com/honors/hall-of-fame/joshua-kinney/204
  100. https://101theeagle.com/qu-alumnus-and-what-nightmares-are-made-of-wrestles-political-career/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.