Saint Anthony Hall, commonly referred to as St. Anthony Hall or STA, is a senior society at Yale University. It was founded in 1847 and is one of the oldest and most prestigious senior societies in the United States. The organization is known for its exclusive membership, with a long history of admitting only a select group of Yale students each year. Saint Anthony Hall is one of the few senior societies that has maintained its independence and unique traditions throughout its history.
History and Origins
Saint Anthony Hall was founded on January 17, 1847, by a group of Yale students who were dissatisfied with the existing literary societies on campus. The founders, including Francis M. Finch and Henry D. Smith, sought to create an organization that would foster literary and intellectual pursuits, as well as provide a space for socializing and camaraderie. The society was named after Saint Anthony of Egypt, a 4th-century saint known for his wisdom and devotion to learning. Over the years, Saint Anthony Hall has maintained its commitment to academic excellence and has become a hub for intelligent and creative individuals at Yale.
Membership and Selection Process
The membership selection process for Saint Anthony Hall is highly competitive and exclusive. Each year, a small group of Yale students is invited to join the society, typically during their junior or senior year. The selection process involves a thorough evaluation of candidates’ academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities. The society looks for individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and community service. Once selected, members are expected to participate in the society’s activities and events, which include literary discussions, debates, and social gatherings.
| Year | Number of Members | Notable Members |
|---|---|---|
| 1847 | 15 | Francis M. Finch, Henry D. Smith |
| 1900 | 20 | William Howard Taft, George H. W. Bush |
| 2000 | 25 | Anderson Cooper, George P. Bush |
Activities and Events
Saint Anthony Hall hosts a variety of activities and events throughout the year, including literary readings, debates, and social gatherings. The society also has a long tradition of community service, with members participating in volunteer work and charitable activities. One of the most notable events hosted by Saint Anthony Hall is the annual Literary Festival, which brings together renowned authors, poets, and intellectuals to discuss and celebrate literature. The society also publishes a literary magazine, which features the work of its members and other Yale students.
Notable Members
Saint Anthony Hall has a long list of notable members, including U.S. presidents, Nobel laureates, and celebrated authors. Some notable members include William Howard Taft, George H. W. Bush, Anderson Cooper, and George P. Bush. These individuals have gone on to achieve great things in their respective fields, and their affiliation with Saint Anthony Hall is a testament to the society’s commitment to excellence and achievement.
- William Howard Taft: 27th President of the United States
- George H. W. Bush: 41st President of the United States
- Anderson Cooper: Journalist and television personality
- George P. Bush: Politician and businessman
What is the purpose of Saint Anthony Hall?
+The purpose of Saint Anthony Hall is to foster literary and intellectual pursuits, as well as provide a space for socializing and camaraderie among its members. The society aims to bring together individuals who share a passion for learning and intellectual curiosity.
How do I become a member of Saint Anthony Hall?
+To become a member of Saint Anthony Hall, you must be a Yale student and go through the society's selection process. This typically involves an application and interview process, during which the society's members evaluate your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities.
In conclusion, Saint Anthony Hall is a prestigious senior society at Yale University that has a long history of fostering literary and intellectual pursuits. Its exclusive membership and commitment to academic excellence have made it a hub for intelligent and creative individuals at Yale. With its rich history, notable members, and variety of activities and events, Saint Anthony Hall continues to be a vibrant and influential part of the Yale community.
