The History of Malvern Prep

The Augustinian community purchased the farm called Belle-Aire in January 1842, to establish a college and monastery under the patronage of St. Thomas of Villanova. The original academy building, built in 1848, is now called Alumni Hall and stands just behind the Chapel at Villanova.

As the school grew and modern education began to take its present form, a distinction grew between the “academy boys,” the “college boys,” and the “seminarians.” In 1901, the academy was named “St. Nicholas of Tolentine Academy,” and in 1922, the college program was expanded. The decision was made to remove the academy program from the college campus. About the same time, the Rosengarten family of Malvern planned to sell part of its holdings located on Warren Avenue and Paoli Pike. Thus in 1922, because of the Augustinian need and the availability of 143 acres in historic Chester County, the academy relocated to become Malvern Preparatory School.

Although only two buildings on the Rosengarten estate could be used for school purposes, Austin

Hall (original farmhouse) and the St. Augustine Friary (farm building), they were more than ample in providing classroom and living space for the predominantly boarding student body of 19 and the original faculty of three Augustinians and a layman. In the intervening years, the original buildings were supplemented.

Embracing its earliest roots, Malvern Prep regards 1842 as its founding year and features it on the school seal. Malvern Prep celebrated its 175th anniversary during the 2016-2017 school year. In 2022-2023, Malvern celebrated the centennial celebration of its history at its present location in Chester County.

Our Mission

An Augustinian School, Catholic, and Independent, Living the Augustinian spirit of Veritas, Unitas, and Caritas

Truth

Malvern is dedicated to the pursuit of Truth through academic excellence and the growth of each of its students, so that he is prepared fully for college and for a life of integrity and courageous leadership.

Unity

Seeking oneness of mind and heart in the journey toward God, Malvern strives to build a diverse community in which a caring faculty works with parents and students to instill in everyone a personal responsibility for the common good.

Love

Inspired by Christ, the Malvern Tradition invites each individual to grow and give in a family distinguished by respect, challenge, service, and exceptional love.