The University of Saint Joseph is blessed with spirited students, expert faculty, engaged alumni, and generous donors. In the past year, this was proven once again, as our University community joined together to consider opening full-time undergraduate programs to men. After months of research, interviews, surveys, and discussions, the Task Force on Coeducation presented a report to the Board of Trustees, who met in June and voted to become a fully-coeducational university. I am very grateful to everyone who took part in this project, and for the thoughtfulness and consideration with which it was undertaken. As mentioned throughout the discussion, we would only open the programs to men if it promised to create a more vibrant educational experience for all our students. We truly believe this will be the case.
In addition to the coeducation discussion, there were other exciting accomplishments during the 2016-2017 year:
As you read on, I hope you will share my excitement and belief that USJ is poised for even greater days ahead. I am truly grateful to everyone who has given to the University this year, whether a gift of time or a monetary donation. Thank you!
Rhona C. Free, Ph.D. President
The number of University of Saint Joseph students participating in different forms of high-impact learning experiences outside the classroom has risen to 92 percent in the past few years. From completing an internship, field study, research, or clinical placements – these opportunities offer ways to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom out in the community and enhance their overall academic experience at USJ.
In the case of USJ Psychology student Annie Foster ’17, she found her internship through a combined effort from the USJ Career Development Center and help from Lisa Kuntz, Ed.D., associate clinical professor of Psychology at USJ.
“My education at USJ has prepared me for this internship through my courses, such as Statistics and Research Methods, and it really helps with the data-mining I do for the market,” said Foster.
Beth Fischer, RSM, ’76, assistant dean of Student Affairs/Community Engagement established the Helen and John Fischer Fund for Mercy Service to honor the compassionate service of her parents during their lifetime and ensure ongoing funding for specific service learning programs at USJ. The Fund will support:
President Rhona Free, Ph.D., appreciative for all of the service Sister Beth provides the USJ community reflected on this significant gift: “The Fischer Fund is a celebration of a kind and generous family with full hearts, love of community, and hope for all people. We are very grateful for this enduring legacy donation and excited to see it being put to good use where it’s needed most.”