Founded by the Society of Jesus in 1946, Le Moyne is the second youngest of the 28 Jesuit colleges and universities in the United States, and the first to open as a coeducational institution. It was named in honor of Simon
Le Moyne, S.J., a priest, missionary and teacher with a considerable influence on Central New York.

Le Moyne’s first classes were held in downtown Syracuse before excavation began on the former Gifford Farm. In 1948 the College’s first two structures, now known as Grewen Hall and the Coyne Science Center, were built. Today, the campus has grown to include three academic buildings and 15 residential buildings, as well as a chapel, library, performing arts center, Jesuit residence and athletic facilities. 

Although it is now in its sixth decade, the College remains true to the ideals and the 470-year-old intellectual and religious tradition upon which it was based. It is committed to its founding ideal, “But Love the Truth and Peace,” and to providing students with a well-rounded, liberal arts education. Courses in English, history, religion and philosophy remain at the core of a student’s academic experience at Le Moyne.  

At the same time, Le Moyne is also a progressive institution, growing and developing in the Ignatian spirit of adaptation to current needs. It provides educational opportunities for commuter and residential students, and older students eager to continue their education study alongside their traditional college-age peers.

Today approximately 2,300 undergraduate students and 800 graduate students are enrolled in Le Moyne. More than 700 courses are offered, leading to Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degrees in 31 different majors, or master’s degrees in nursing, business administration, physician assistant studies and education.

To date, Le Moyne has been guided by 13 presidents. Its current president, Fred P. Pestello, Ph.D., is the College’s first permanent lay leader.