Cardinal Stritch University and the site today
Cardinal Stritch University was a Franciscan institution in Fox Point, north of downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Founded in 1937, it grew from a teacher-training college into a university offering undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs. It was known for academic rigor, service to underserved communities and a campus life shaped by Franciscan values (Encyclopedia of Milwaukee; WUWM; BestColleges).
The university closed in May 2023 after 86 years, citing financial pressures and declining enrollment. Its former campus is being redeveloped as Aug Prep North, a new K4–12 campus for St. Augustine Preparatory Academy. Public access is limited while construction is underway (Urban Milwaukee; Spectrum News 1; TMJ4 News).
History
The Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi founded the institution in 1937 as St. Clare College, during the Great Depression. Its mission included educating teachers and developing students spiritually, intellectually, morally and physically, with a focus on serving underserved communities (Encyclopedia of Milwaukee).
In 1946, the college began admitting lay women and took the name Cardinal Stritch College, honoring Archbishop Samuel A. Stritch, known for his advocacy for the poor. It received accreditation in 1953, added graduate programs and became fully co-educational by 1970 (WUWM).
The college moved to its Fox Point campus in 1962, a suburban location near Lake Michigan and north of downtown Milwaukee. It expanded its programs, including nursing and business, while emphasizing liberal arts and community service (Wikipedia).
In 1997, it became Cardinal Stritch University and introduced doctoral programs, including Leadership for the Advancement of Learning and Service. A $14 million campus upgrade in 2006 modernized facilities, while the university also expanded its online offerings (BestColleges).
Franciscan values shaped the university’s work in literacy and special education and its commitment to underserved communities. Its athletic teams, the Stritch Wolves, competed in the NAIA and the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference. Campus life combined academics, athletics and character development (Encyclopedia of Milwaukee; WUWM; Play College Basketball).
The university’s final commencement took place on May 21, 2023. Its closure marked the end of an institution described as having an 85-year history as well as an 86-year presence (TMJ4 News; Milwaukee Magazine; Wikipedia).
What to see and redevelopment
The campus was at 6801 N Yates Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53217, about nine miles north of downtown and near Lake Michigan (Chamber of Commerce). Former campus features included the Joan Steele Stein Centre for Communication Studies/Fine Arts, the student-run coffeehouse known as The Bean, athletic facilities, and dining and study spaces (Times Higher Education).
As of June 2025, the site was an active construction area. Many original buildings, particularly those dating from the 1960s, were being demolished because of renovation costs and the need for modern educational spaces. The gym, library, campus center and fine arts building are being preserved and upgraded as landmarks from the university’s past (Spectrum News 1).
The Ramirez Family Foundation acquired the campus for $24 million in July 2023 and is redeveloping it as Aug Prep North, a new K4–12 Christian school for St. Augustine Preparatory Academy. The project is projected to involve a $100 million investment. Its initial capacity is planned to exceed 1,000 students, with room for future expansion (Spectrum News 1; WPR).
Plans include flexible academic buildings and collaborative learning spaces; fine arts, music and performance facilities; a new fieldhouse, turf soccer field, outdoor track and modernized gyms; student healthcare facilities; and a renovated campus center and library intended for community use. New buildings, designed by EUA architects and constructed by VJS Construction Services, are planned with open, light-filled spaces, sustainable materials and advanced technology. Landscaping plans include green spaces for recreation and community gatherings.
The first phase is slated to open in fall 2026, initially serving grades K4–6 and 9. The project is also described as having a projected opening in 2026. Aug Prep North aims to serve a diverse student body and support the diversity of the broader Milwaukee community. The redevelopment is expected to create construction jobs and later educational and support-staff positions, and is intended as a hub for youth development, family engagement and community activity (Spectrum News 1; WPR).
The university’s legacy also continues through its alumni and Franciscan values. Future plans may include memorials or historical markers commemorating the university’s 85-year history (Yahoo News).
Practical visiting information
Access, hours and tickets
The campus is currently closed to visitors during construction for safety, and building access is restricted. Another visitor-information statement says visitors may explore the grounds where permitted; access therefore depends on current restrictions and posted notices.
Before the university closed, its official hours were weekdays from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. There are no current public visiting hours. No tickets or entry fees are required, but there are no ticketed tours or public events at present.
A virtual campus tour is available. Future tours and community events are expected to be announced on Aug Prep’s official website.
Transportation, accessibility and safety
The campus is accessible by car and is near major Milwaukee highways. Public transportation serves the area, though parking and pedestrian access may be limited during construction. Specific transportation and parking details for the new campus are to be released before it opens.
When the university was operational, the campus was accessible by car and public transit and designed with walkability in mind. Accessibility features included ramps and elevators; options may now be limited by redevelopment. The virtual tour is described as a fully accessible alternative.
The campus was historically recognized for safety (Times Higher Education). Standard precautions were advised when visiting unfamiliar areas.
Contact information
- Phone: 414-410-4000
- Website: https://www.stritch.edu/
- Address: 6801 N Yates Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53217 (Chamber of Commerce)
Tips
- Check campus access restrictions and construction status before visiting; local authorities or the Ramirez Family Foundation may have updates.
- Use the virtual tour for remote exploration.
- Future tours and events will be announced through Aug Prep’s website.
- When access is permitted, visitors have been encouraged to photograph the architecture and green spaces, attend alumni or community events when available, and treat the site with respect for its historical significance.
- Local news and official channels may provide updates on future visiting opportunities.
Nearby places
Nearby destinations include the Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, the Milwaukee Art Museum, Lake Michigan and its shoreline, downtown Milwaukee and the Historic Third Ward. Marquette University and the Milwaukee School of Engineering are also nearby.
FAQ
Can I visit Cardinal Stritch University now?
The campus is closed to visitors during construction for safety. Another visitor-information statement says the grounds may be explored where permitted; check current restrictions and posted notices.
Are guided tours available?
No in-person tours are currently available. A virtual tour is online.
Is there an admission fee or are tickets required?
No tickets or admission fees are required, though campus access is restricted.
What are some nearby attractions?
Lake Michigan, downtown Milwaukee and nearby cultural and recreational sites, including the Milwaukee Art Museum, Historic Third Ward and Schlitz Audubon Nature Center.
Is the campus accessible for visitors with disabilities?
The former campus had ramps and elevators, but in-person accessibility may be limited during redevelopment. The virtual tour is an accessible alternative.
