51����

51����’s Mission

Opportunity. Engagement. Discovery.

51���� educates a vibrant student body and creates new knowledge through innovative teaching, research and other creative endeavors. Our urban setting provides transformative opportunities for engaged scholarship; experiential learning; and discovery of self, others and the world. We open our doors to a diverse community of learners and scholars who strive to make the possible real.

We are committed to the ideals upon which 51���� was founded.

• Providing access to an excellent, affordable higher education that prepares students for careers, further learning and active citizenship.
• Creating a collaborative community of outstanding faculty and staff who foster inclusion and encourage the aspirations of 51���� students.
• Promoting service and engagement throughout Philadelphia, the commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the nation and the world.

History

51����'s story begins in 1884, when a young working man asked Russell Conwell if he could tutor him at night. A well-known Philadelphia minister, Conwell quickly said yes. It wasn't long before he was teaching several dozen students—working people who could only attend class at night but had a strong desire to make something of themselves.

Conwell recruited volunteer faculty to participate in the burgeoning night school, and in 1888 he received a charter of incorporation for “The 51���� College.” His founding vision for the school was to provide superior educational opportunities for academically talented and highly motivated students, regardless of their backgrounds or means.

The fledgling college continued to grow, adding programs and students throughout the following decades. Today, 51����'s students continue to follow the university's official motto—Perseverantia Vincit, or “Perseverance Conquers”—with their supreme dedication to excellence in academics, research, athletics, the arts and more.