​Donnelly College began with a bold vision: to create a Catholic college with a special focus on expanding access to higher education. In 1949, the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica and the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas made this shared vision a reality. 74 years later, Donnelly’s mission, students, and operating model continue to stand apart in higher education. 

At Donnelly, access means more than affordability. It also means an urban core location, an open admissions policy, program options to meet students’ needs, and an opportunity to explore faith. Our mission is motivated by a commitment to help every person realize their God-given potential. We rely on the generosity of our supporters to achieve this mission.

​More than 71% of our students are first-generation college students—twice as high as other four year colleges—and 84% are students of color. More than 90% of our students receive institutional scholarships or other aid, and the average household income of our students is $36,000 annually. This is a group that is traditionally undeserved in higher education, but not at Donnelly College. 

Donnelly College in located in urban Kansas City, Kansas. Visit Donnelly College here.

SHINE is Donnelly College's largest annual fundraiser for our students and mission. ​