History of Maris Stella College
Pioneering women's higher education in Vijayawada since 1962 under the patronage of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary.
Congregational Heritage & Origins
The college is run by the Society of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, a Catholic religious congregation founded by Blessed Mary of the Passion, in Ootacamund, in 1877.
"In the year 1962, a group of prominent citizens of Vijayawada approached the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary (FMM) to express the urgent need for a college for women in this region."
Founding with a Sacred Mission
It was in response to this invitation that Maris Stella College was founded on 16th July, 1962 to become the first college set up with the express mission of educating young women to be intellectually, morally, socially and spiritually sound.
The goal has always been to equip women to contribute positively to family, community and nation, and to become torch-bearers of an equitable society.
Key Historical Milestones
1877 – PresentSociety of FMM Founded
Established by Blessed Mary of the Passion at Ootacamund.
Maris Stella Founded
First women's college in Vijayawada region; started with 18 students.
Volunteer for NAAC
Among the first institutions voluntarily opting for NAAC accreditation.
Autonomous Status
Conferred autonomous status; re-accredited at 'A' level by NAAC.
Potential for Excellence
UGC CPE retained. Successfully completed 3rd & 4th NAAC cycles.
Values & Outreach Mission
True to its vision and mission, the College offers quality education and maintains consistently high academic standards to give all students an equal opportunity for learning through whole person education strongly grounded in values.
Special Focus: To reach out to students from socially and economically disadvantaged sections of society, and to prepare them to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
Accreditations & Government Grants
Recognized ExcellenceNAAC Re-accredited'A' Level • 4 CyclesRecognition & Honors
Institutional DistinctionsRecognized for green and sustainable campus initiatives.
High standards of scientific and research infrastructure.
Commendation for extensive community health outreach.
Distinction in vocational & tourism studies.
Statewide leadership and commendation for social justice and advocacy.