St. Bonaventure University is a private, Franciscan Catholic university located in St. Bonaventure, New York. Founded in 1858, it is affiliated with the Order of Friars Minor and operates as a nonprofit institution. Unlike public universities, which receive state funding, St. Bonaventure relies on tuition, donations, and endowments. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on liberal arts, business, and professional studies. The university emphasizes small class sizes and personalized education, reflecting its private status. Its governance and mission are independent of state control, aligning with its religious and academic traditions.