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Father Joseph L. Davis, S.J.,
and the School of Commerce and Finance
 Although Saint Louis University had awarded commercial certificates to students since 1862, the students were still part of the regular collegiate department of the University. The idea of a separate school within a university for studying business was a new concept in the United States, even in the early 20th century. In 1910, however, Saint Louis University established a separate School of Commerce and Finance (C&F) due primarily to the hard work and persistence of Father Joseph L. Davis, S.J. Besides practical training in disciplines such as accounting and economics, Father Davis also believed that the modern businessman needed a general background in the liberal arts, particularly literature and grammar.
 In the early years of the School, classes met in Du Bourg Hall. But in 1931, C & F moved into its permanent home in a new building on Lindell Boulevard slightly west of the Law School. This building eventually would be named Davis-Shaughnessy Hall in honor of Father Davis and Martin Shaughnessy, a prominent St. Louis businessman, a graduate of the University and the primary donor for the construction of the building.
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