University of Windsor - History

History

The University dates back to the founding of Assumption College Roman Catholic in Windsor, Ontario in 1857. Assumption College, a primarily theological institution, was founded by the Jesuits in 1857. The college grew steadily, expanding its curriculum and affiliating with numerous other colleges over the years.

In 1919 Assumption College in Windsor affiliated with the University of Western Ontario. Originally, Assumption was one the largest colleges associated with the University of Western Ontario.

Escalating costs forced Assumption University (a denominational university) to become a public institution in order to qualify for public support.

It was granted university status in 1953.

The War Memorial Hall (more generally known as Memorial Hall) is a landmark building on the campus of the University of Windsor used as classrooms, labs, and offices. Memorial Hall honours alumni who had enlisted and died in the First World War, and in the Second World War. A bronze tablet remembers the alumni of Assumption College who died in the Second World War.

In 1950, Assumption College welcomed its first women students. In 1953, it ended its affiliation with the University of Western Ontario. It was incorporated as the independent non-denominational University of Windsor through an Act of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario on December 19, 1962. Soon after, affiliation agreements were made with Holy Redeemer College, Canterbury College and the new Iona College (affiliated with the United Church of Canada). Canterbury College became the first Anglican college in the world to affiliate with a Roman Catholic University. In 1963, University of Windsor affiliated with Essex College. Essex College's Arms and Badge were registered with the Canadian Heraldic Authority on March 15, 2007.

On July 1, 1963, the University of Windsor assumed control of the campus. Alan Beddoe designed the University's coats of arms.

In 1964 Dr. John Francis Leddy became President of the University of Windsor, and presided over a period of significant growth. From 1967 to 1977, Windsor grew from approximately 1,500 to 8,000 full-time students. In the 1980s and early 1990s, this growth continued. Among the new buildings erected were the Odette Business Building and the CAW Student Centre.

Enrollment at the University reached record heights in Fall 2003 with the elimination of Grade 13 (Ontario Academic Credit) in Ontario. The university has developed a number of partnerships with local businesses and industry, such as the University of Windsor/Chrysler Canada Ltd. Automotive Research and Development Centre, the only one of its kind in North America.

University of Windsor's Arms were registered with the Canadian Heraldic Authority on March 15, 2007.