Founded in 1473 by Robert Wodelarke, Dean of King's College. Probably named after Saint Catharine of Alexandria. Formerly known as Katharine Hall (1473-1860). Sister College – Worcester College Oxford. St Catharine's is universally known as 'Catz' and is just a two-minute walk from the market square. Facing Trumpington Street to the east, it has Corpus Christi directly across the street. To the north it joins King's College and is opposite Queens to the west. Indeed, in the past she leased land in Queens', which she ultimately purchased when both parties grew tired of renegotiating the lease. 'Catz' enjoys an excellent academic reputation, coupled with a fine sporting tradition which has enabled it to provide several members of the university rowing team. In the 1970s the college built a modern off-site accommodation block known as St Chad's, in which the rooms are octagonal, to echo the shape of the college's crest – a Catharine wheel. St. Catharine's trains men and women with 220 postgraduate students and 436 undergraduate students. Women were first admitted in 1979. Admission criteria select students based solely on academic potential, regardless of educational background. It is important to note that some Oxbridge colleges emphasize 'academic ability development', implying that raw potential is not enough. Three fellows at the foundation Although the college was founded on St Catherine's Day in 1473 by the provost of King's College, Robert Wodelarke, he had begun planning the institution as early as 1459. He began acquiring land which was to drain its personal wealth and arouse suspicion that he was embezzling King's money. His ambition had to be reduced to just three fellows who were to study theology and philosophy... middle of article... giving rise to the expression "Hobson's choice" meaning no choice of All. In 1860 the college adopted its present name and in 1880 steps were taken towards a merger with King's College, which appeared to be beneficial to both neighbors, with King needing more space and St Catharine, needing more financial stability. The proposal was met with substantial opposition which resulted in the plans being abandoned. In 2006, the first woman was appointed master of the college. St Catharine's has achieved 'fair trade' status. Although not the richest college in Cambridge, Catz is now sufficiently endowed to provide funds to help students in need. Former students included broadcaster and fierce political interviewer Jeremy Paxman and actress Emma Thompson. Jenny Fray was the first female captain of British Airways and Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed became the fifth president of India..