The Sisters of Mercy established Luzerne County's first four-year institution of higher learning on nearly 100 acres of land purchased on their behalf in 1914. On August 14, 1924, 2,500 people witnessed the dedication of College Misericordia. On Mercy Day, September 24, 1924, thirty-seven students began their collegiate studies, sharing the Sisters' motto Mulier Fortis, or Valiant Woman. Founded as a broad-based college offering superior education to those of all faiths, it continues on its original grounds, which have expanded to 120 acres.