History of Manhattan University

131st Street and Broadway

In May 1853, five De La Salle Christian Brothers relocated their small Canal Street school to Manhattanville, a neighborhood of New York City located at 131st Street and Broadway.

The Brothers brought with them a revolutionary educational philosophy rooted in the teachings of Saint John Baptist de La Salle, the patron saint of teachers. Lasallian education emphasized treating teaching as both a profession and a vocation, encouraging educators to go beyond memorization to “touch the hearts” of their students.

Students were prepared not only through religious instruction grounded in Christian ethics, but also through practical subjects designed to prepare them for meaningful roles in society.
 

The Early Years

Between 1853 and 1863, the institution expanded rapidly. College-level coursework was introduced in 1859, and the name Manhattan College was first used in 1861. The school received its official charter from the New York State Board of Regents on April 2, 1863.

Unlike many colleges of the era, Manhattan combined a strong liberal arts education with technical and pre-professional training.

During the late 19th century, the University’s enduring nickname—the Jaspers—was established. The name honors Brother Jasper, a prefect of discipline and baseball coach whose leadership helped shape the early athletic culture of the institution.
 

Establishing the Modern Campus

As enrollment grew, the institution sought a larger campus. In 1922, the cornerstone for a new campus was laid in the Riverdale neighborhood of the Bronx, where Manhattan University remains today.

The move created a distinctive environment: a residential campus overlooking the Hudson River with direct access to the professional, cultural, and educational opportunities of New York City.
 

Following World War II, Manhattan University experienced significant expansion in both enrollment and academic programs.

The campus served both college students and a preparatory school for high school students. A pivotal moment came in 1973, when Manhattan became coeducational, welcoming its first undergraduate women.

In the decades that followed, the institution evolved from a largely commuter school to a vibrant residential campus community, supported by the construction of new residence halls.
 

Entering the 21st century, Manhattan University invested in new facilities designed to support modern student life and academic innovation.

Major additions include:

• O'Malley Library (2002)
• Lee Hall (2008)
• Raymond W. Kelly Student Commons (2014)

A comprehensive campus master plan continues to guide modernization efforts, including new student housing and academic spaces that support collaboration, research, and experiential learning.

In 2024, Manhattan College officially became Manhattan University, reflecting the institution’s continued growth in academic scope and global reach.

Approved by the New York State Board of Regents on August 1, 2024, the name change recognizes the University’s expanding portfolio of undergraduate majors, graduate programs, and advanced degrees, while reinforcing its commitment to attracting students from around the world.

Today, Manhattan University remains proudly Catholic and Lasallian, guided by the educational principles established by Saint John Baptist de La Salle more than three centuries ago.

Central to this tradition is a commitment to:

• Educational opportunity
• Service to others
• Respect for human dignity
• Preparing students to lead with integrity

Many Manhattan students are first-generation college students, continuing the institution’s long-standing mission of expanding access to higher education.

Rooted in tradition yet focused on the future, Manhattan University continues to evolve while remaining faithful to the ideals that shaped its founding in 1853.