Founded in 1473 by Robert Wodelarke, Provost of King's College. It probably takes its name from Saint Catherine of Alexandria. Formerly known as Katharine Hall (1473-1860). Sister College – Worcester College Oxford. St Catharine's is universally called '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. It joins King's College to the north and faces Queens' to the west. In fact, in the past it leased land from Queens, which it eventually purchased when both parties grew tired of renegotiating the lease. "Catz" enjoys an excellent academic reputation, combined with a fine sporting tradition which has seen it provide several members to the university rowing team. In the 1970s the college built a modern block of off-campus accommodation known as St Chad's, in which the rooms are octagonal, to echo the shape of the college's coat of arms: a Catherine wheel. St. Catharine's educates both men and women with 220 graduate and 436 undergraduate students. Women were first admitted in 1979. The admission criteria select students solely on the basis of academic potential, regardless of educational background. It is important to note that some Oxbridge colleges insist on "developed academic ability", implying that raw potential is not sufficient. Three colleagues at the foundation Although the college was founded on St Catherine's Day in 1473 by the rector of King's College, Robert Wodelarke, he had begun planning the institution as early as 1459. He began acquiring land that would drain his personal wealth and raised suspicions that he was diverting money from King's. His ambition had to be narrowed down to just three companions who were required to study theology and philosophy... halfway through the article...... giving rise to the expression "Hobson's choice" meaning no choice. In 1860 the college adopted its present name and in 1880 proposals were made for a merger with King's College, which appeared to be beneficial to both neighbours, with King's needing more space and St Catharine's needing greater financial stability. The proposal met with substantial opposition which led to the plans being abandoned. In 2006 the first woman was appointed director of the college. St Catharine's has achieved 'Fair Trade' status. Although not the richest college in Cambridge, the "Catz" is now sufficiently endowed to offer funds to assist needy students. Former students included broadcaster and tough 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.