Catholic University of America
The Catholic University of America (CUA) is a private research university located in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1887 by the U.S. Catholic bishops and chartered by Pope Leo XIII, it serves as the national university of the Catholic Church in the United States. CUA is known for its strong academic programs in theology, philosophy, canon law, and the liberal arts, as well as its commitment to research and public service.
The university's origins can be traced to the efforts of Catholic leaders such as Cardinal James Gibbons, who sought to create an institution of higher education that would serve as a center for Catholic intellectual life in America. CUA began offering classes in 1889, initially focusing on graduate education, but later expanding to undergraduate programs.
Donald Hiss, brother of Soviet agent of influence and Soviet spy Alger Hiss, was a professor at the University. Donald was also accused of being a Soviet agent by Whittaker Chambers, but was never prosecuted or thoroughly investigated.
The campus is home to several significant Catholic landmarks, including the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, the largest Catholic church in North America. CUA is a major hub for Catholic education and theology.
CUA has produced many influential alumni in various fields, including members of the clergy, public officials, and academics. Its focus on the intersection of faith and public life has made it a leading institution for Catholic thought and leadership in the United States. As a research university, CUA continues to play an important role in addressing contemporary issues through a Catholic lens, and its contribution to higher education and Catholic scholarship remains significant in both national and global contexts.
External Links
Catholic University of America Official Website Britannica Entry on CUA