Mount Saint Mary's University

Our journey through the decades continues with the 1930s.

Despite the challenges of the Great Depression, the Mount continued to grow with resilience, determination and a bold vision for the future. The Chalon Campus gradually took shape throughout the decade, with classes beginning there in 1931. New academic programs expanded opportunities for learning, and the Alumnae Association established its first scholarship fund—beginning a tradition of support that continues to change lives today.
Under the leadership of Mother Dolorosa Mannix, the Mount strengthened its commitment to liberal arts education and welcomed students from across the United States and Latin America, helping shape the diverse and vibrant community we know today.

📸 1: A glimpse of student life in the early 1930s as Mount students study and socialize in Brady Hall Lounge

📸 2: Construction of Brady Hall

📸 3: Students practiced archery on the growing Chalon Campus, reflecting the Mount’s commitment to physical education and student life in the 1930s.

📸 4: A student practices fencing on the newly opened Chalon Campus.

📸 5: The first College sign — made of three redwood logs — was proudly displayed at the Chalon Campus entrance, 1931

📸 6: The Latin Club “Taedifer” often presented Latin plays, discussions and programs of various types

📸 7: The Mount celebrates its first Mary’s Day in 1933 — a tradition that continues to this day

📸 8: Sister Dolorosa Mannix was named the Mount’s second president in 1937

📸 9: Mary Chapel was constructed in 1939

✨ Stay tuned as we continue our journey through the decades and explore the 1940s next.

The Center for the Advancement of Women at Mount Saint Mary’s University was honored to be invited by Senator Ben Allen to the California State Capitol to present findings from the 2026 Report on the Status of Women and Girls in California™: The Future of Work for Women.
During the visit, Dr. Krishauna Hines-Gaither, Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships, Dr. Breann Branch, Director of the Center for the Advancement of Women, and Debbie Ream, Sr Director of External and Community Relations & Communications, engaged with legislators, staffers and interns in meaningful conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing women in the workforce. The exchange of ideas underscored the value of research, collaboration and policy dialogue in shaping a stronger future for women and girls across California.
We are grateful for the opportunity to share our work and contribute to conversations that can help inform policies and practices supporting economic opportunity and equity statewide.

As we conclude our yearlong 100th anniversary celebration, we’re taking a journey through the decades that shaped the Mount.

We begin where it all started: the 1920s.

When Mount St. Mary’s College welcomed its first 25 students in 1925, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet were doing more than opening a college — they were creating opportunities for women to learn, lead and transform their communities.

Take a look back at the decade that launched a century of impact.

1925: Mount St. Mary’s College is established at St. Mary’s Academy

1925: Mother Margaret Mary Brady becomes the College’s first president

1928: Land is purchased in the Santa Monica Mountains for a new campus

1929: First graduating class, June 16, 1929

1929: Groundbreaking begins for the new campus

1929: The Alumnae Association is founded

✨ Stay tuned as we continue our journey through the decades with a look at the 1930s next week.

☀️ Summer is calling in Los Angeles!

From beach days in Santa Monica to foodie adventures at Grand Central Market, from exploring the culture of Little Tokyo to relaxing afternoons at Echo Park, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of summer in the city.

Where will your LA adventures take you? 🌴✨

Celebrate history, culture and community at Mount Saint Mary’s 5th Annual Juneteenth Celebration. Join us for an afternoon of live music, dancing, drumming, local vendors, family activities and more. Free and open to the public. All are welcome.
📍 Doheny Campus
🗓️ June 18 | 11 am – 1 pm

RSVP today! https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=1G2QY0nSeUa7R_5f_L-rLtiN_NxQy8hDsMQOsG4sovRUQkpUTEkzQ09MVEtCMDZHQVNPQktUQzlVVy4u&route=shorturl

Empty campus🎓 (for now). Endless memories. 💜