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7. A Promise Kept
How Scholarships Open Doors at USJ
This story is part of a larger feature on President Rhona Free’s 10 years at USJ. To read more, click here.
When Michael Decker began exploring colleges as a high school sophomore, he pictured himself at a larger school in a warmer climate. But by the summer before his senior year, his priorities shifted.
“I realized I wanted a college closer to home so I could be near my family that had great academic support, and where I could play lacrosse at a high level.” The University of Saint Joseph ticked all the boxes. A key factor in his decision? The Catholic Promise Scholarship, which offers $25,000 annually (up to $100,000) to eligible students who graduate from a regional, accredited Catholic high school.
As a senior at St. Paul Catholic High School in Bristol, Conn., Decker saw a path to a high quality, affordable college education that would be a true return on his investment.
Catholic Promise really takes weight off of my shoulders in terms of my future debt after college.
Michael Decker ’27
Decker is one of nearly 100 students who have enrolled at USJ through the Catholic Promise scholarship since it was founded in 2020. Another targeted program, the Independent Scholar Award, provides $5,000 annually to graduates of private, independent high schools. Since its launch this past fall, it has brought in 13 new students. “The Catholic Promise scholarship aligns with USJ’s mission and provides affordability and access to higher education for students attending a Catholic high school.
The Independent Scholar Award is a way to support and acknowledge students in rigorous academic programs seeking a university that incorporates academic excellence, mission, and core values into the college experience,” said Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management Molly Miner. “Both of these scholarships help deepen USJ partnerships with Catholic and independent schools.”