The images in this work illustrate the story of one of the first Catholic women's colleges in Indiana from shortly after the Sisters of the Holy Cross arrived from Le Mans, France in 1843 to present day. Envisioned by these women of faith as a place to enrich the minds and spirits of the girls of the frontier, Saint Mary's began its tradition of pioneering education for women. This original mission enabled the college to adapt to the contemporary needs of its students and continue to grow and become a regional leader in science, education, and the arts.

As the number of students increased, and the community and world around the campus changed, Saint Mary's College evolved by continuing to honor tradition. The pictures reflect the evolution of the student body, campus, and academic life.