Manhattan College, overlooking Van Cortlandt Park in Riverdale, is an independent Catholic college which embraces qualified men and women of all faiths, races and ethnic backgrounds. Established in 1853, the College is founded upon the Lasallian tradition of excellence in teaching, respect for individual dignity, and commitment to social justice. Today Manhattan College maintains that tradition by providing scholarships and financial aid to many students who are the first in their family to attend college and by keeping tuition reasonably priced for all. Add to that exceptional academic programs and values-based Catholic education that nurture the whole student—some of the significant differences that make a Manhattan education one-of-a-kind—and you have a standard of excellence in education.