The College of St. Scholastica

The Braegelman Program in Catholic Studies explores the Catholic intellectual tradition as one of the world’s great monuments of human flourishing. The program is interdisciplinary, illuminating the many dimensions of Catholicism and providing a spiritual depth to a rigorous academic program. The Catholic Studies Lecture Series features accomplished guest speakers that engage with the wider Duluth community. 

Campus Ministry contributes to a vibrant community of faith, offering a variety of spiritual development opportunities, including small group discussions, Bible studies, special speakers, and other activities.

“Through student Mass and small groups, I have met lifelong friends who support me in my Catholic faith,” says Aimeejoy Balko ’16. “I have also been blessed to build connections with staff and the Benedictine Sisters through clubs such as VITA (Volunteers Involved Through Action), Benedictine Friends, and Better Together interreligious group, just to name a few.”

The College was founded in 1912 by the Benedictine Sisters of St. Scholastica Monastery, which is adjacent to the College in Duluth, Minnesota. The coeducational school is now independent, but the Sisters remain its sponsors. Building upon their vision, the St. Scholastica community embraces students, faculty, and staff regardless of denomination, background, or beliefs. The College believes that equity and inclusion are key ingredients to academic excellence and the success of all its students.

Each spring the St. Scholastica campus community celebrates the Feast Day of the College’s namesake, a sixth-century saint. The day’s activities include a festive lunch buffet and a social featuring a display of historical objects belonging to Mother Scholastica Kerst, the visionary founder of the Duluth community of Benedictine sisters in the 19^th century. She said, “My dream is that someday there will rise upon these hills fine buildings like the great Benedictine abbeys. They will be built of stone; within their walls higher education will flourish.”

The Sisters are called Benedictines because they follow St. Benedict, who was twin brother to St. Scholastica. His Rule of St. Benedict forms the basis for Benedictine monasteries all over the world, male and female.