The innovative character of Mount Washington College’s approach to education began with the founding of Hesser College in 1900 by Joel H. Hesser. His goal of providing individual encouragement and assistance to all students continues to be a driving principle in the culture of Mount Washington College today. The first location of Hesser Business College was at 913 Elm Street, Manchester, New Hampshire, the former location of the Daniels and Downs Private School, which was acquired soon after the formation of Hesser Business College. After a second location opened at 1017 Elm Street, Hesser Business College moved to 83 Hanover Street, known as the Odd Fellows Building.