Who We Are

Our History

Webster University is an Independent Nonprofit Institution with a Century of Time-Tested Results

Established in 1915 by the Sisters of Loretto, who sought to make education accessible to all, Webster has an extraordinary history reflecting a determination to equalize higher education.

Recognizing the growing interconnectedness of our world, for 40 years we have been building an action-oriented global network of faculty, staff, students and alumni who forge powerful bonds with each other and with their communities around the globe. In addition to the main campus in St. Louis, Missouri, Webster's locations extend across the United States and abroad.

138 Countries

Represented in our student body

Mission and History

Explore our 100+ year history of providing accessible and quality education to all.

Academics

Discover our rich history of research and discovery within our community.

University Leadership

Meet our University’s leadership from our Chancellor to President.

Diversity and Inclusion

See how we embrace all human differences while building on commonalities.

Community Engagement

Learn how we provide an active forum for community members.

Faculty and Staff

Search our University’s directory to find out about our industry experts.

Alumni Spotlight

“I chose Webster because of the increased alumni presence and professional experiential teaching. I also enjoy the nine-week classes. You’re receiving a full degree with less mandatory time.”

Terhea Jones

MA in Management and Leadership, ’20

Webster's Alumni Network

Speaker walks in front of screen that reads "Higher Education in Prison: Human Right and Social Good"

Institute for Human Rights and Humanitarian Studies

As a worldwide university, Webster is advancing the study of human rights issues, while supporting teaching, research and service to promote global citizenship.

Learn More About the Institute for Human Rights and Humanitarian Studies

The Lore Behind the Webster Gorlok

At Webster, we pride ourselves on creating a campus as unique as you are, and that includes our mascot! The Gorlok is Webster's very own legendary creation and exemplifies the innovation, creativity and out-of-the-box thinking we encourage in our students, faculty and staff.

Get to Know the Gorlok!

Meet Our Mythical Mascot

The Gorlok is a mythical creature, uniquely created just for Webster University!

It has the paws of a speeding cheetah, the horns of a fierce buffalo and the face of a dependable Saint Bernard.

The myth of the Gorlok represents the high standards, atmosphere of fairness and good conduct that are so important to Webster University.

The name was chosen in June 1984 and takes inspiration from the intersection of Gore and Lockwood avenues, considered to be the heart of “Old Webster."

Webster University ran a contest in October 1984 challenging applicants to submit a sketch and description of what they thought a Gorlok would look like. The winning entry was a photograph of a furry creature holding a hand-held pump sprayer.

The Webster Gorlok mascot waving to the camera while standing with a bicycle.

The Webster Gorlok mascot posing for a photo with a group of Webster students.

More Lore Unlocked

The Gorlok has evolved over time, continuing to be an important representative of the innovative and creative energy found at Webster University.

The first life-size Gorlok costume made its debut at a men’s basketball game in February 1988. The mascot stood 6 feet 3 inches and was covered in blue fur.

Today the Gorlok features golden fur, two horns on its head, and wears a blue letter jersey featuring a large, white “W” emblazoned on the front.

The Gorlok is an elusive creature who brings magic to campus. Keep your eyes open while you’re on campus, at athletic events and student life events, and you just might get a glimpse of the Gorlok in real life!

And don’t worry, the Gorlok is friendly! Don’t be afraid to snap a photo together.

Learn More

Webster University is committed to ensuring high-quality learning experiences that transform students for global citizenship and individual excellence. Prepare for your next step and explore our community resources.