Loretto Heights College Archives
In 1891 the Loretto Heights Academy began as an elementary and secondary school. In 1918 college course were added, while the secondary courses continued until 1941. In 1947 the name was changed to Loretto Heights College. It was the only women’s college in the Rocky Mountain area until 1960. In 1936, a degree was awarded in Nursing Education, which became a four-year degree in 1956. University Without Walls began in 1971 as an innovative degree program for non-traditional students. From 1970 -1988 the school was co-educational.
Loretto Heights College closed in 1988 and merged with Regis University. The Archives of Loretto Heights College are housed at Regis University.
The Administration Building: In 1890, the Administration building is under construction for Loretto Heights Academy, an elementary and secondary school for girls. The Administration Building, originally called Tower Hall, was the first building on campus. When completed, a year later, nineteen Sisters of Loretto at the Foot of the Cross and fifty-one students move in.
Sr. Eileen Marie Heckman, SL* (1904 – 1908): A native of Illinois, Sister Eileen Marie spent most of her religious life in Colorado, teaching in elementary and secondary schools and at Loretto Heights College. In 1943 she moved into administration, serving as Dean of Students, Academic Dean, 8th President of the college from 1964 to …
Sr. Lydia Peña, SL*: Lydia M. Peña, S.L., is an educator, art historian, author, community leader and fundraiser. In 1955 she graduated from Loretto Heights College with a B.S. in Dietetics. In addition, she holds a Master’s degree in Education and an M.A. and a PH.D in Art History. Sr. Peña started teaching at St. …
Sr. Patricia Jean Manion, SL*: Sister Patricia Jean Manion served as president of Loretto Heights College from 1967 – 1972. She presided over a time called “New Directions” and was innovative in aligning the college with the cultural changes of the time. The governance of the school was put under a secular Board of Trustees …
Mother Pancratia Bonfils (1852 – 1915): Mary Louise Bonfils, born in St. Louis in 1852, was the daughter of Protestant parents who had her educated by the Sisters of Loretto. She joined the order at age 14 and was assigned to teach in Denver. By her 30th birthday, she had been appointed as Mother Superior …