Our Story

The School of Nursing was established in 1923 by the in conjunction with Our Lady of the Lake Sanitarium. Within the community, the School played a crucial role in the hospital's mission to serve.

In 1989, Our Lady of the Lake College of Nursing and Allied Health was registered with the state, marking FranU’s transition from nursing school to a degree-granting higher education institution.

Decades later, we underwent another name change — from Our Lady of the Lake College to ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ, the title we’re known by today.

• FranU's History

Mission and Values

FranU isn’t just educating students — we're shaping tomorrow's leaders. Rooted in Catholic and Franciscan traditions, we're dedicated to nurturing students’ minds and spirits. Our institution embodies our commitment to excellence and lives in witness to Jesus Christ and the Gospel message.

We aim to educate students from diverse backgrounds, uniting them through their quest for knowledge and desire to make a difference. Together, FranU students can realize FranU’s vision of a vibrant community catalyzing positive change.

Beyond academic achievement, we hope to shape professionals known for their integrity, compassion and dedication to helping others. At FranU, we strive to transform lives and communities through the power of knowledge, faith and service.

Learn more about our institution’s mission and values, or get to know our leadership and Board members who reflect these ideals in their daily work.

• Mission & Values
• Leadership & Board

Community Engagement and Impact

ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ has an extensive and growing tradition of service to the community. In collaboration with University-community partners, we empower students to serve those most in need through service-learning experiences.

Our students have dedicated more than 156,422 service hours to communities in 17 parishes through Central and Southern Louisiana. This translates to an economic impact of $3,785,074.60 for the local areas we are privileged to serve.

Recognizing our work, the Carnegie Foundation classified FranU as a Community-Engaged Campus, a distinction we proudly bear. Additionally, the University has been named six times to the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll — the highest federal recognition a college or university can receive for its commitment to volunteering, service-learning and civic engagement.

• Explore Service-Learning at FranU

Learn More ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ FranU Through Statistical Reports

Our Institutional Research division provides accurate, comprehensive data that enables University leadership to make informed decisions, allocate resources and assess academic programs and student services. This data also forms the foundation for FranU’s strategic planning, helping the University set realistic goals and measure progress toward success.

• Institutional Research

Visit FranU

Experience us in person through a campus visit where you can immerse yourself in our culture and community. Or, browse our video resources to learn more about FranU from the convenience of your own home.

• Plan Your Visit

Explore Our Programs

Whether you’re interested in biology or business, nursing or nutritional sciences, FranU can support your goals and help you reach your full potential. We offer over 20 degree programs — including those at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels.

Review our academic programs and find the right fit for you!

• FranU Academic Programs

Accreditation

ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, master's and doctorate degrees. Questions about accreditation of ÇàÇà²ÝÊÓƵ may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, (404) 679-4500. Or, .

• View Institutional Accreditation