Harris-Stowe State University

Harris-Stowe State University (HSSU) offers a compelling educational journey deeply rooted in the history of St. Louis education. Its unique origins trace back to two distinct institutions: the St. Louis Normal School, founded in 1857 for white women, and the Sumner Normal School, established in 1890 to prepare African American women for elementary teaching. This dual heritage highlights a remarkable evolution from racially segregated, women-only teacher training colleges to a unified, co-educational university.

Initially focused exclusively on preparing elementary school teachers, HSSU's predecessors, Harris Teachers College and Stowe Teachers College, were pioneering forces in their respective communities. Harris Teachers College notably welcomed Anna Brackett in 1863, making it the first normal school in the U.S. led by a woman, who championed higher education and liberal studies for female students. Both institutions expanded their academic offerings, becoming four-year undergraduate programs authorized to grant Bachelor of Arts in Education degrees by the 1920s.

The integration of these two historic colleges after 1954 marks a pivotal moment, symbolizing progress and a commitment to inclusive education. Today, Harris-Stowe State University continues its legacy of empowering students, building on a foundation that overcame significant historical barriers to foster a diverse and dynamic learning environment dedicated to developing future leaders and educators. Prospective students will find themselves part of an institution with a profound story of resilience, growth, and academic dedication, particularly in the field of education.