The study of nursing at Loyola began in the early 20th century when several hospital nursing schools, including the nursing schools of St. Bernard Hospital, St. Anne Hospital, St. Elizabeth Hospital, Oak Park Hospital, and Columbus Hospital, affiliated with the university. By 1917, graduates of these affiliated schools were appearing in the commencement programs. In 1935, these affiliated hospital schools combined to become the Loyola School of Nursing, with Sister Helen Jarell, R.N., A.N., as the first directress. In 1980, the School of Nursing was renamed the Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing in recognition of a generous gift from Marcella Niehoff, a local businesswoman. Loyola's School of Nursing was the first fully accredited school of Nursing in the state of Illinois.