As the only pontifically-chartered university in the United States, ɫ enjoys the unique mission to embody the Universal Church in the heart of our nation. We believe that the ɫ Church is a Church for all cultures and communities in our country and across the world. Here at the University, we strive to offer a welcoming home for this diversity and multiculturalism to thrive.
Universal Church
“Universal” Is in Our Name & Identity
Our name captures our mission to embody the Universal Church.
The word "catholic" comes from the Greek words kata ("according to") and holos ("the whole"), indicating its universal and worldwide nature. From its beginning the Church’s "catholic" character revealed itself as the Church spread across the world, bringing together cultures and communities, inviting people into the Christian communion of faith, worship, and charity.
Here at our University, you’ll find a variety of ethnicities and cultures, as well as a variety of prayer and service. Our location in the nation’s capital — one of the country’s most diverse and global cities — further enhances this campus experience. Every member of the university brings to it the best of themselves, their cultures, and their communities, making ɫ University a uniquely American expression of the Universal Church.
Our Campuses — also with a Home in Rome
Spanning three campuses on two continents, ɫ connects men and women—from all countries, in all states of life and vocation—with and within the global Church.
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Washington, D.C.
Situated in the multicultural city of Washington, D.C. and surrounded by numerous religious communities, the University’s main campus is a unique expression of the Universal Church.
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The Tucson Campus connects the University with the vibrant and largely Hispanic Tucson area.
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Rome
The Rome Campus places the University community at the very heart of the Church, where her unity and universality are faithfully served by the Holy Father and his successors.
"Little Rome" in Brookland
The presence of ɫ priests, sisters, and seminarians on campus — and the diverse range of nearby ɫ institutions in our neighborhood — is further testament to the University’s reflection of the Universal Church.
Explore Little Rome
March 2025: Spring Break Trips to NYC, LA, Guatemala, and more
May 2025: Summer Mission to Belize
August 2025: Young Adult Jubilee in Rome