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  • Hilbert Traditions
Hilbert Students on a service trip to Kenya

Hilbert's History

Newcomers to Hilbert inevitably ask where our name originates. It's a good place to start because the answer combines both our history and our philosophy.

The college is named after Mother Colette Hilbert, who, in 1897, established the Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph, which became the college's founding congregation. In 1957, the community founded a teacher training college for its members; in 1969, having broadened its curriculum to include degrees outside of teacher training and expanded its enrollment to include both men and women, the institution officially became known as Hilbert College.

In 1992, Hilbert began to offer four-year degrees for the first time; today, it offers 18 four-year degree programs, including one of only a few Computer Security and Information Assurance and Cybersecurity programs in the entire country and the first undergraduate Rehabilitation Services Program in Western New York.  Hilbert added its first graduate programs in 2011 and adult and evening bachelor-level programs in 2012.

Hilbert's Mission
Hilbert College is an independent institution of higher learning that embraces its Catholic Franciscan heritage and values. Students from diverse backgrounds are educated in liberal arts and professional programs to become informed citizens committed to serving and strengthening their communities.

Regional Accreditation
Hilbert's degree programs are registered by the New York State Education Department and the college is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, 3624 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104. Telephone: (267) 284-5000.

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For accessibility help, contact Debra McLoughlin at dmcloughlin@hilbert.edu or call (716) 926-8826.
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