1899 Society

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

Mercy Health Sciences University 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 Health Sciences University-educated healthcare professional, or been impacted by the University’s ministry in some way.

In 1899, the Sisters of Mercy laid the foundation for Mercy Health Sciences University 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 Health Sciences University to uphold their legacy by delivering education built on the Core Values of Knowledge, Reverence, Integrity, Compassion, and Excellence.