Founded in 1789, Georgetown University is the oldest Catholic and Jesuit institution of higher learning in the United States. Nestled in the historic Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, D.C., the university combines a rich tradition of Jesuit education with the strategic influence afforded by its proximity to the nation's capital. Across its undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools, Georgetown serves over 19,000 students, fostering a tight-knit community dedicated to intellectual inquiry and social justice. The campus architecture, featuring Healy Hall's iconic spires, reflects its integrative approach to blending the classic and contemporary in an enduring academic environment.
Exclusive to Georgetown University is its renowned School of Foreign Service (SFS), which was established in 1919 as the first American school devoted to diplomacy and international affairs. SFS has produced numerous notable diplomats and leaders, including former President Bill Clinton and esteemed journalists like Gloria Borger. The university's Institute for Women, Peace, and Security, headed by former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, exemplifies Georgetown's commitment to shaping global policies. Another unique offering is the Georgetown University Law Center, which has been influential in shaping legal education and regularly contributes to major policy debates in the U.S.
Georgetown's positive influence extends to its array of respected academic programs. Its business school, the McDonough School of Business, is renowned for its innovative approaches to global business education and ethical leadership, often highlighted by its prestigious International Business Diplomacy Honors Certificate. The university's dedication to social justice is evident in its groundbreaking initiatives, such as the Program on Justice and Peace, which examines critical social issues through a lens of advocacy and interdisciplinary study. Georgetown's athletic teams, known as the Hoyas, have also garnered national prestige, with the men's basketball team earning a reputation as a perennial powerhouse in collegiate athletics.
Despite its many strengths, Georgetown University has faced challenges concerning diversity and inclusivity within its student body and faculty. Efforts to increase representation among historically underrepresented groups have been at the forefront of its agenda. In recent times, the university has also grappled with reconciling its historical ties to slavery, which has sparked initiatives aimed at rectification and reflecting on their historical legacy. Furthermore, Georgetown's location in an affluent neighborhood can pose affordability challenges for both prospective students and campus faculty, impacting the socioeconomic diversity of the campus community. Addressing these concerns remains a critical ongoing effort for the institution, as it seeks to uphold its values and foster an inclusive environment for all members of the Hoya family.
