1899 Society

For nearly 125 years, Mercy College of Health Sciences has persisted on a singular path: providing high quality healthcare education to students in central Iowa. 

Mercy College students are among the best and brightest, coming from many different backgrounds, cultures and experiences. They graduate and go on to become nurses, physical therapist assistants, radiologic technologists, medical assistants, paramedics, healthcare administrators, or public health professionals. Many continue their education and become doctors, optometrists, pharmacists, veterinarians or dentists. It is rare to find an Iowan who has not encountered a Mercy College-educated healthcare professional, or been impacted by the College’s ministry in some way.

In 1899, the Sisters of Mercy laid the foundation for Mercy College of Health Sciences when they established the Mercy Hospital Training School to meet the growing demands for professionally trained nurses. Populations and needs have changed over the years, as have the modes of healthcare delivery. However, our commitment remains the same as it did in 1899.

Individuals in the 1899 Society extend the legacy of the Sisters of Mercy and enable Mercy College to uphold their legacy by delivering education built on the Core Values of Knowledge, Reverence, Integrity, Compassion, and Excellence.