John Hart to deliver SXU Honors Program Guest Lecture

Water activist helped found Caribou Clean Water Partnership

Chicago (March 28, 2008) Water activist John Hart will deliver Saint Xavier University’s Ninth Annual Honors Program Guest Lecture at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 8 at Saint Xavier’s Chicago campus, located at 3700 W. 103rd St.

The event, which is free and open to the public, will be held in the Butler Reception Room, located in the Warde Academic Center.

In his lecture, titled “A Partnership for Clean Water: The Politics of Conservation,” Hart will describe work being done to prevent mining pollution in the Greater Yellowstone region and his own quest to protect the sacred natural resources he loves.

The lecture will address issues SXU honors students are exploring in their interdisciplinary honors science course “The Bio-Politics of Water Pollution.” The students will travel to southern Idaho this summer to help prevent mining pollution.

A front-line activist in the struggle to protect America’s water, Hart is a founding member of the Caribou Clean Water Partnership. The group works to bridge the divide between environmentalists, farmers, ranchers and businesspeople to oppose further expansion of phosphate mining in southwest Idaho. He is Phosphate Campaign communications manager for the Greater Yellowstone Coalition.

Hart, who is originally from Idaho, said he learned of the pollution after moving back to his home state from the east coast to raise his family. He now aims to spread awareness of the problem and work for a solution.

“The pollution has been happening since before I was born and it’s something that has been kept undercover,” he said. “The lands and water around eastern Idaho have a big impact on who I am and how I was raised. It’s just wrong- it was not a hard choice for me to come aboard and help fight.”

Hart recently finished a post as a county administrator and director of economic development. He also has taught digital media, exhibited his art in galleries and museums in New York and Connecticut and illustrated the “Prince Valiant” comic strip.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Rick Ducat
773-298-3325 or ducat@sxu.edu

SXU honors top art student Michael Grimm with solo exhibition

Exhibit runs April 3-4; artists’ conversation and reception 7 to 10 p.m. on Friday, April 4

Chicago (March 26, 2008) Saint Xavier University will honor a top student artist with a two-day exhibit beginning April 3 at the SXU Gallery, 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago.

Senior Michael Grimm will present digital imagery and photography in his premiere solo show titled "Visual Discourse: Cultural Commentary.”

Grimm said the exhibit is a critique of modern American culture and its effects on gender, politics, religion and other topics.

“The images are meant to create a contemplative state, evoking an intimate dialogue between image and viewer,” he said.

Grimm creates the digital imagery by merging and manipulating different photographic elements to create the cultural commentary. The photography portion draws upon the Stations of the Cross for inspiration to depict the physical and psychological struggle American women endure from society’s objectification and sexualization.

The exhibit will be on display from April 3 through April 4. An artists’ conversation and reception will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. on Friday, April 4.

The SXU Gallery is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, please contact the SXU Gallery at (773) 298-3081.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Rick Ducat
773-298-3325 or ducat@sxu.edu

SXU screens visual concert “Koyaanisqatsi” on April 8

Final film in environmental series

Chicago (March 26, 2008) A screening of the 1983 visual concert film "Koyaanisqatsi: Life out of Balance" will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 8, in Saint Xavier University’s McGuire Hall, 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago.

The screening, which is free and open to the public, is the sixth and final film in the 2007-2008 SXU Film and the Environment Series. McGuire Hall is located in the Warde Academic Center.

Directed by Godfrey Reggio, the film’s title comes from the Hopi Native American words for “crazy life,” “life in turmoil,” or “life out of balance.” It depicts the juxtaposition of natural environments with the ways humans influence their surroundings and is set to the music of minimalist composer Philip Glass.

The film makes heavy use of time-lapse and slow-motion photography to compare different types of physical motion. It highlights the ways in which modern life follows natural patterns, yet is in chaos and disarray.

The film is one hour and 27 minutes and will be projected by DVD. The series is supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, Saint Xavier’s College of Arts and Sciences and the Department of Art and Design. For more information, please contact Film Series Director Alison Fraunhar, Ph.D., at fraunhar@sxu.edu or (773) 298-3083.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Rick Ducat
773-298-3325 or ducat@sxu.edu

Saint Xavier School of Nursing graduate student travels to Bolivia to work with cleft palate cases

See the Chicago Sun-Times article about Saint Xavier graduate nursing student Eileen Muldoon and her medical mission to Bolivia, where she will be working with children with cleft palates. Muldoon was born with a cleft palate, which took three surgeries to correct.

Record 144 university friends, alumni attend Saint Xavier alumni enjoy preseason game between Sox and Cubs

Chicago (Mar. 24, 2008) A record 144 alumni and friends of Saint Xavier University watched the Chicago White Sox and Chicago Cubs square off during a spring training preseason game on Saturday, March 22, at Hohokam Stadium in Mesa, Ariz.

Participants enjoyed skybox seating and warm Arizona sunshine at the 4th annual Saint Xavier University Alumni and Friends Weekend. But neither Northsiders nor Southsiders could claim bragging rights when the game ended in an 8 to 8 tie in the 10th inning.

“We are pleased this event continues to be so popular among the University's alumni and friends,” said President Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D., who attended the game. “Their support is of tremendous importance as we move toward our vision of becoming a leading comprehensive Catholic university.”

For more information about the game, please contact the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations at (773) 298-3316 or alumni@sxu.edu.

Photo: Saint Xavier University President Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D. (rear) and Margaret and former SXU Trustee Thomas McNamara enjoy a preseason game between the Chicago White Sox and Chicago Cubs on March 22 at Hohokam Stadium in Mesa, Ariz. The game was part of the 4th annual Saint Xavier University Alumni and Friends Weekend.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Joe Moore
773-298-3937 or jmoore@sxu.edu

Joseph Parisi, Ph.D., to deliver final SXU Squeaky Weal lecture

Former “Poetry” editor to comment on women’s influence in literary world

Chicago (March 20, 2008) Joseph Parisi, Ph.D., former editor-in-chief of the magazine Poetry, will deliver the final speech in Saint Xavier University’s 2007–08 Squeaky Weal lecture series at 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 7.

His lecture, “Between the Lines: An Intimate History of Poetry Magazine and The Revolutions in Modern Verse by Women,” is free and open to the public and will be held in the Butler Reception Room, located in the Warde Academic Center on Saint Xavier's Chicago campus at 37oo West 103rd Street.

A widely respected lecturer, Parisi’s 20-year tenure at Poetry has given him a wealth of fascinating inside stories about contemporary poets and poetry. In addition to spinning some of those stories, He will share his conviction that the lives and works of several generations of “bold women” have transformed modern literature.

He will also unveil his newest anthology, 100 Essential Modern Poems by Women. The anthology was edited with Kathleen Welton and was released by Ivan R. Dee, Publisher. It will be available for purchase after the lecture.

Parisi was editor-in-chief of Poetry from 1983 to 2003.

Saint Xavier’s Squeaky Weal lecture series explores the role of religion in civic life and the importance of being involved in civic and political issues. The series is sponsored by the Center for Religion and Public Discourse. Parisi’s presentation is partially funded by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council.

For more information about the lecture, please contact Kathy Mareska at (773) 298-3981 or mareska@sxu.edu, or visit http://www.sxu.edu/.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Rick Ducat
773-298-3325 or ducat@sxu.edu

SXU hosts final Theology South lecture

Theological scholar to discuss origins of the Serenity Prayer

Chicago (March 20, 2008) Therese De Lisio, Ph.D., will discuss the “surprising” origins of the Serenity Prayer as the final speaker of Saint Xavier University’s Theology South lecture series at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 3 in SXU’s Butler Reception Room, 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago, IL.

De Lisio will deliver a lecture titled “The Serenity Prayer: No Peace without Justice” about the popular prayer written by Reinhold Niebuhr. She plans to discuss the history of the prayer, and its theological and ethical significance in the modern era.

“Most people usually associate it with the Alcoholic’s Anonymous prayer,” she said. “But the origins are surprising and have a very strong theological basis.

De Lisio holds a doctorate in philosophy from Union Theological Seminary in New York. She is an adjunct professor of theology and liturgy at the Catholic Theological Union. She previous taught at Saint Xavier University, Seabury-Western Theological Seminary and Union Theological Seminary.

The program begins at 9:30 a.m. and runs until 11 a.m. It is open to the public; admission is $6. Coffee will be available beginning at 9 a.m. For more information, please contact Donatta Yates at (708) 422-1635.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Rick Ducat
773-298-3325 or ducat@sxu.edu

SXU students forgo traditional spring break for service

26 students and staff uphold Mercy tradition in Appalachia, New Orleans and Cincinnati

(From left) Saint Xavier University students Katie Eskridge and Leeza Steward and staff member Patrick Biggins help hang drywall at a home in New Orleans as part of the Mercy Volunteer Corps alternative Spring Break program. Twenty-six SXU students and staff members traveled across the country to help the less fortunate.

Chicago (March 20, 2008) While many college students were spending Spring Break partying, 26 Saint Xavier University students and staff members were volunteering to help poor and marginalized people across the country.

Four groups from SXU traveled to Cincinnati, Appalachia and New Orleans as part of the Mercy Volunteer Corps, a year-long volunteer program sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy. Corps members offer service through full-time volunteering and commit to living simply in a community and to personal and communal spiritual growth.

“We are proud that our students and staff sacrificed their Spring Break to gain real-world experience and compassion by helping the less fortunate,” said Saint Xavier Director of Campus Ministry Eileen Doherty. “They are truly carrying forward the long tradition of service founded by the Sisters of Mercy more than 160 years ago."

Three students and two staff members traveled to Cincinnati to stay with a Mercy Volunteer Corps community and experience the life of a full-time post-graduate volunteer. Students worked alongside MVC members at their various service sites, including Mercy Connections social service agency, the Caring Place food pantry, Bethany House shelter for women and children and a local parish school.

Five students, two staff members and one retired staff member worked with Glenmary’s Group Volunteer Program at the Glenmary Farm in eastern Kentucky. The Farm is an integral part of life for Lewis County, one of the poorest counties in the state. Participants built and repaired homes, assisted at a day care center for adults with developmental disabilities, and worked at a nursing home for the elderly and disabled.

Another group also headed to eastern Kentucky to assist the Christian Appalachian Project’s annual Workfest. They stayed in a summer camp with students from other colleges, and helped renovate homes while learning basic skills.

Catholic Charities of New Orleans welcomed six SXU students and two staff members. The volunteers helped installed drywall in a home and slept in classrooms of an old school.

This was the second year that SXU Senior Leeza Steward attended the New Orleans program. She said her first trip so influenced her that she changed her major to education and now plans to return to New Orleans after she graduates in May to continue teaching and rebuilding.

"When I went back this year, I saw that there had been progress made,” she said. "The first year I went on the trip, I came back with a sense of purpose. The second year, I came back with a sense of hope.”

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Saint Xavier premieres new commercial

Take a sneak peak as Saint Xavier premieres its brand new television commercial!

The new television spot will air on Chicago Comcast stations from mid-March through mid-May.

Saint Xavier University reaches new fundraising record under President Judith A. Dwyer’s Presidency; Surpasses $30 million since October 2003

Chicago (March 17, 2008) This month under the leadership of President Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D., Saint Xavier University fundraising surpassed $30 million in the form of restricted and unrestricted funds, land and buildings since she assumed the presidency in October 2003--the most ever raised at Saint Xavier during a similar length of time. The total reflects gifts pledged and received from individuals, foundations, corporate support and realized estate gifts.

“I would like to thank the entire Saint Xavier community for its support of the University and our strategic vision to be recognized as a leading Catholic comprehensive university,” said President Dwyer. “Trustees, alumni, faculty, administrators, staff, students, parents and friends all contribute to this growing success. I am very pleased with what we have been able to do as a team. Much has been accomplished, and much remains to be done.”

President Dwyer also acknowledged the work of the University Advancement staff under Vice President Steven J. Murphy in helping to build a culture of philanthropy.

“Our fundraising performance under President Dwyer’s leadership is further indication of her unique and powerful vision for the future Saint Xavier University,” said SXU Board of Trustees Chairman Thomas E. Chomicz.

President Dwyer’s tenure has been a period of unprecedented change and improvement for Saint Xavier University. Just a few of her many accomplishments include:

· Doubling the value of the University's endowment

· Implementing of The Power of Eight, a comprehensive set of strategic directives

· Creating the Office for Mission and Heritage

· Appointing multiple deans and cabinet members

· Continuing to be listed in the top 25 percent in the “U.S. News & World Report” rankings of best colleges in the Midwest offering undergraduate and master’s degrees

· Cultivating a culture of transparency by ensuring participation in the Collegiate Learning Assessment, the Lumina Longitudinal Study and the Higher Learning Commission’s Assessment Academy

· Overseeing the design and construction of Arthur Rubloff Hall, the first university building in the state of Illinois to receive the LEED Gold Designation from the U.S. Green Building Council

· Joining more than 400 universities and colleges nationwide in signing the Presidents Climate Commitment to become climate neutral

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Joe Moore
(773) 298-3937 or jmoore@sxu.edu

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Saint Xavier University provides Southside venue to Chicago Latino Film Festival; Presented in conjunction with the Illinois Latino Cultural Center

Chicago (March 18, 2008) Saint Xavier University, along with the Beverly Arts Center, will be one of two Southside venues to host the Chicago Latino Film Festival in April. Now in its 24th year, this respected national film festival allows viewers to see new and exciting Latin documentaries and short-features from Latin American countries and the U.S.

The festival is sponsored by the Latino/Latin American Program at Saint Xavier in conjunction with the Illinois Latino Cultural Center. All films are open to the general public for $5 each or free with a Cougar Card.

For more information, contact Maria Llerenas at (773) 298-3231.

Film times and locations are as follows:

Friday, April 4, McGuire Hall, 3 p.m.

"Tell Mario Not to Come Back" (Documentary), Uruguay, 82 min., Director: Mario Handler

Uruguayan director Mario Handler explains why he visited former comrades, victims, prisoners and an executioner of the dictatorial regime (1973 through 1986) in his motherland and registered their stories in "Tell Mario Not to Come Back." Handler finds he owes it to those who suffered after he himself fled to Venezuela, where he continued making films but not a single one about Uruguay. From 2004 to 2007, Handler traced a number of protagonists who told what life was like during the 13-year dictatorship.


"Project Pilsen," US/Argentina, 5 min., Director: Fernando Olszanski

This short film explores the destruction of historic buildings and sites to make room for condos and new construction.

Monday, April 7, 2008, S-101 Warde Academic Center, 3 p.m.

"Soy Andina" (Documentary), Peru 70 min., Director: Mitchell Teplitsky

Two New Yorkers, a modern dancer raised in Queens and a folkloric dancer from the Andes, journey to Peru to reconnect with their roots and the world of folkloric dance. "Soy Andina" is an exuberant cross-cultural road trip, bursting with traditional music and dance rarely seen outside the country. But the core story is intimate and universal: a yearning for roots and connection in a globalized world.

"Eddie & Pocket & Kit," US, 14 min., Director: Alejandro Heiber

Eight-year-old Edie’s pet bird, Pokey, has died. She is trying to revive it as best as she can. Kit, an older neighborhood friend who knows that he can fly, tries to help her.


Tuesday, April 8, 2008, S-101, Warde Academic Center, 3 p.m.

"Hermeto Pascoal, Act of Creation" (Documentary), Brazil, 50 min., Director: Marilia Alvim

The film accompanies Hermeto Pascoal, one of Brazil’s foremost musicians, as he and a group of collaborators create, develop and perform the music for the sound track of a movie. The film captures the sheer virtuosity of the musician and his careful, painstaking work.

"With a Stroke of the Chaveta," US, 28 min., Director: Pam Sporn

In Cuba, cigar factories have traditionally had "readers.” While the workers made cigars by hand, a reader, atop a platform, would read novels, newspaper reports, sports results and political tracts. The history and impact of those readers are explored.


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Saint Xavier University hosts annual job fair

Students, community invited to attend noon April 1 event in the SXU Shannon Center

Chicago (March 17, 2008) Saint Xavier University invites students and community members to network with more than 90 potential employers at SXU’s annual Job Fair from noon to 3 p.m. Tuesday, April 1, in the University’s Shannon Center, 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago.

The fair is free and open to students of all majors, as well as to members of the community and students from neighboring community colleges and universities. Numerous employers will be on hand recruiting for entry-level, professional-level positions and internships. To view the complete list of employers who will be at the Job Fair and the positions they are recruiting for, visit http://www.sxu.edu/jobfair/.

“It’s never too early for students to look for internships or full-time professional positions,” said Mary D. Fitzpatrick, assistant director of employer relations in Saint Xavier University’s Counseling and Career Services. “We are also happy to extend an invitation to our community members who may be looking for work. This is a terrific opportunity to see many recruiters at once.”

To prepare for the Job Fair, Saint Xavier’s Office of Counseling and Career Services has scheduled the following workshops that are open to the public:

• How to Work the Job Fair- Make the most of your Job Fair experience: Tuesday, March 25, 4 p.m., student lounge; Wednesday, March 26, noon, L-103.

• Special Job Fair walk-ins extended hours: March 24 through 28, 1 p.m. through 4 p.m., L-108. No appointment is necessary and attendees should bring their resume for review.

Job seekers should bring copies of their résumés and dress professionally. For résumé assistance, job fair tips or other career-related questions, contact Counseling and Career Services at (773) 298-3131.

Participating employers include: Applied Systems, Inc.; BankFinancial; Berry Plastics Corporation; California Board of Education; California Board of Equalization; Chicago International Charter School-Longwood Camp; Enterprise Rent-A-Car; Grand Prairie Services; Hazel Crest School District 152 ½; Illinois Action for Children; Illinois Department of Human Services; Illinois State Police; Little Company of Mary Hospital; Lyons Township High School; MacNeal Hospital; Matteson Police Department; Mercy Home for Boys & Girls; Mercy Volunteer Corps; Moraine Valley Community College; Mount Prospect Police Department; New York State Taxation and Finance; Palos Community Hospital; Perspectives Charter Schools; RSA Medical; Rush University Medical Center; TCF Bank; The Chicago North Financial Group – MetLife; Thornton Township High School District 205; Trinity Services, United Parcel Service; United States Marine Corps; Waddell & Reed, Inc.; Walgreens; and Wells Fargo Financial.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Rick Ducat
773-298-3325 or ducat@sxu.edu

Musgrove comments on project management

SXU Associate Professor of English Laurence Musgrove, Ph.D., describes how to successfully manage a project in Inside Higher Ed magazine. Click here for the full article.

Click here to view a Northwest Indiana Times photo and story about SXU Student Patricia Smith and her participation in Saint Xavier University's God and Social Action class in which students take part in service around the city of Chicago.

Elie Wiesel to speak at Saint Xavier University; Tickets on sale soon for third ‘SXU Voices and Visions Speaker Series’ lecture

Chicago (March 17, 2008) – Tickets go on sale soon to see Nobel Peace Prize recipient and Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel as the third speaker in the highly successful SXU Voices & Visions Speaker Series at Saint Xavier University in Chicago. Wiesel will speak at 7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 25.

Prior to his lecture, Wiesel will conduct a special classroom discussion with Saint Xavier students.

“We are very pleased that Mr. Wiesel will continue our tradition of bringing international figures to the Chicago area.” said Robert Tenczar, vice president for University Relations. “We received tremendous response to our first two SXU Voices and Visions speakers, Former Secretary of State Madeleine K. Albright and Gen. Colin L. Powell, USA (Ret.).”

Elie Wiesel was born in 1928 in Sighet, Transylvania, which is now part of Romania. He was 15 when he and his family were deported by the Nazis to the concentration camp, Auschwitz. His mother and younger sister perished, but his two older sisters survived. Elie and his father were transported to Buchenwald, where his father died shortly before the camp was liberated in April 1945.

Later as a journalist, he was persuaded to write about his experiences. The result was his internationally acclaimed memoir, “La Nuit” or “Night,” which has since been translated into more than 30 languages.

In 1978, President Jimmy Carter appointed Elie Wiesel as Chairman of the President's Commission on the Holocaust. In 1980, he became the Founding Chairman of the United States Holocaust Memorial Council. He is also the Founding President of the Paris-based Universal Academy of Cultures and the Chairman of The Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity, an organization he and his wife created to fight indifference, intolerance and injustice. Wiesel has received more than 100 honorary degrees from institutions of higher learning.

Since 1976, he has been the Andrew W. Mellon Professor in the Humanities at Boston University. Previously, he served as Distinguished Professor of Judaic Studies at the City University of New York (1972-76) and the first Henry Luce Visiting Scholar in Humanities and Social Thought at Yale University (1982-83).

Elie Wiesel is the author of more than 40 books of fiction and non-fiction, including A Beggar in Jerusalem (Prix Médicis winner), The Testament (Prix Livre Inter winner), The Fifth Son (winner of the Grand Prize in Literature from the City of Paris), and two volumes of his memoirs.

For his literary and human rights activities, he has received numerous awards including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal and the Medal of Liberty Award, and the rank of Grand-Croix in the French Legion of Honor. In 1986, Wiesel won the Nobel Prize for Peace, and soon after, Marion and Elie Wiesel established The Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity.

The event is co-sponsored by the Office of University Relations and the Student Activities Board.

For more information about the event, please call (773) 298-3311 or e-mail specialevents@sxu.edu. Reporters interested in covering Wiesel’s lecture or taking advantage of a special media opportunity the day of the lecture should contact Director of Media Relations Joe Moore at (773) 298-3937 or (cell) (773) 203-6671.


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SXU alum to perform vocal recital

Soprano Michelle Gliottoni-Rodriguez to perform March 29

Chicago (March 14, 2008) Saint Xavier University alumna Michelle Gliottoni-Rodriguez will perform an Alumni Vocal Recital at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 29, at SXU’s McGuire Hall, located in the Warde Academic Center at 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago.

Gliottoni-Rodriguez, a soprano, will perform pieces by various composers, including Mozart, Hoby, Rachmaninoff and Rodrigo.

The concert is open to the public. Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for seniors and visiting students. Admission is free for all Saint Xavier students, faculty and staff with a valid University ID. For more information, please contact SXU’s Music Department at (773) 298-3421, or view the concert schedule at http://www.sxu.edu/music/concerts.asp.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Rick Ducat
773-298-3325 or ducat@sxu.edu

Saint Xavier alumni catch early glimpse of Chicago’s two baseball teams

Chicago (Mar. 13, 2008) More than 100 alumni and friends of Saint Xavier University will watch the Chicago White Sox vs. Chicago Cubs preseason game during spring training on Saturday, March 22, at Hohokam Stadium in Mesa, Ariz.

Participants will enjoy their own skybox view at the 4th annual Saint Xavier University Alumni and Friends Weekend as the Chicago White Sox and the Chicago Cubs face off at 1:05 p.m.

"We are pleased that so many alumni and friends can join us for the weekend, said President Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D., who will attend the event. “The support of our alumni and friends is of tremendous importance as we move toward our vision of becoming a leading comprehensive Catholic university.”

The game is sold out, but limited VIP tickets are still available with the SXU group. For more information, please contact the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations at (773) 298-3316 or alumni@sxu.edu.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Rick Ducat
773-298-3325 or ducat@sxu.edu

What if Catholic social teaching mattered in politics?

International lecturer R. Scott Appleby poses that question April 2nd downtown with WTTM Commentator John Callaway

Chicago (March 13, 2008)--R. Scott Appleby, Ph.D., of the University of Notre Dame will address “Politics As If Catholic Social Teaching Mattered,” when Saint Xavier University takes its Squeaky Weal/Catholic Colloquium Lecture Series downtown Wednesday, April 2, 2008. Questions and responses from WTTW commentator John Callaway will enrich the conversation and facilitate audience discussion.

Reservations are required for the 5:15 p.m. lecture, which will take place at the Union League Club, 65 W. Jackson Blvd. in Chicago’s Loop. For more information contact the University’s Mission and Heritage Office at 773-298-3981 or at mareska@sxu.edu.

Appleby will discuss the possible policy debates that might occur if Catholic social principles such as human dignity, the common good, and solidarity with others were taken seriously when searching for practical solutions to societal problems.

“The speakers, the venue, and the timeliness of the topic promise to make this lecture one of the liveliest of the entire series,” said Sister Susan Sanders, R.S.M., Ph.D., vice president of the Office for University Mission and Heritage and director of Saint Xavier’s Center for Religion and Public Discourse. “This topic relates directly to the mission of the University to educate men and women ‘to search for truth’ about how faith and reason might meet in the formation of public policy.”

Appleby, a Saint Xavier University trustee and former SXU faculty member, is the John M. Regan Jr. Director of the Kroc Institute and Professor of History at the University of Notre Dame. An internationally known lecturer, he is frequently sought by news media for explanation and comment on such topics as religious fundamentalism, comparative religions, peacemaking and American religious history.

Broadcast pioneer John Callaway is host and senior editor of WTTW’s “Friday Night” program. He was the founding host of “Chicago Tonight” (WTTW) and founding news director of WBBM’s all-news format begun in 1968. He is the recipient of several honorary degrees, including one from Saint Xavier University in 2002, as well as 17 Emmys and the Peabody Award.

“Politics As If Catholic Social Teaching Mattered” is sponsored by Saint Xavier’s Office for University Mission and Heritage and the University’s Center for Religion and Public Discourse. It is free and open to the public, although reservations are required.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Joe Moore
773-298-3937 or jmoore@sxu.edu

Saint Xavier University participates in Chicago History Museum’s “Catholic Chicago”

Chicago (March 13, 2008) Saint Xavier University, the first Sisters of Mercy institution of higher learning in the country, will participate in the Chicago History Museum exhibit “Catholic Chicago.”

The exhibit opened Saturday, March 8 and will run through Jan. 4, 2009. It explores Chicago from the perspective of the Catholic community, examines how being Catholic in Chicago has transformed over time and how it has shaped the city’s urban landscape.

“Saint Xavier is proud to support and participate in this exploration of Chicago’s Catholic heritage,” said Saint Xavier University President Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D. “For more than 160 years, the Sisters of Mercy continue their vital role in the development of this great city.”

As part of the display there are photos and video interviews with Saint Xavier University staff, including SXU Vice President for Mission and Heritage Sister Susan Sanders, R.S.M., Ph.D.

“I am very proud of the prominence and recognition the Sisters of Mercy and several of our sponsored institutions – Saint Xavier University and Mercy Hospital and Medical Center among them -- have received,” Sanders said. “I strongly encourage everyone to view this exhibit.”

To see video excerpts and photos of the “Catholic Chicago” exhibit, visit http://chicagohistory.org/planavisit/exhibitions/catholic-chicago/index.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Joe Moore
(773) 298-3937 or jmoore@sxu.edu

Saint Xavier students find God in non-traditional settings

Chicago (March 12, 2008) Patricia Smith works 20-plus hours a week at a Jewel grocery store, carries 17 credits at Saint Xavier University, serves as a campus minister and still finds time to volunteer at a homeless shelter.

“I have these feelings about social justice and making a difference,” said the SXU junior. “You can learn and discuss theories of what you should do, but then you have to actually do what you’re talking about.”

What reasons compel some young people to pursue an early life of service while others are content merely to go to class and have fun with friends? SXU Professor David Neff believes some students are on a spiritual quest.

“I think many of them are already searching at a deeper level, and it can be hard for them to find God in a traditional setting like church. They’re looking for intensity, something transformative that will take them to a new place,” said Neff, who teaches the University’s God and Social Action class in which students are required to minister weekly at a service site away from campus.

Once a week, the students meet as a group to review individual service, discuss related readings and, perhaps most importantly, share personal experiences and provide support to one another. In order to enter the class, all students must first pass an interview process with Sr. Cathleen Cahill, R.S.M., administrative director of Pastoral Ministry.

“Service is at the core of the Sisters of Mercy mission,” Cahill said. “We want to ensure our students are doing this for the right reasons, not just to earn three credits toward a degree.”

Cahill places the students with various service groups, including Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly, Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, and the Aquinas Citizens Literacy Center. Smith volunteers at the Southwest Chicago Public Action to Deliver Shelter (PADS), an ecumenical group serving the homeless. There, she welcomes guests and provides meals and clothes. Smith said working with people in real need has been a time of epiphany.

“Some of the discomfort I was feeling before I started at PADS was that I felt guilty about everything that I have that they don’t,” Smith said. “But I’ve since realized that the homeless don’t need pity, they need dignity. The people at the shelter are our guests. That was a big breakthrough for me. The aspects of social justice and focusing on service and human rights, that’s what appeals to me about Catholicism. I think that’s why I wanted to take myself out of my comfort zone and do this.”

Saint Xavier belongs to Campus Compact, a coalition of more than 1,100 colleges and universities and 6 million students who are committed to fulfilling the public purposes of higher education. The organization recently published a report noting an increase in student service among the national student population from 28 percent to 32 percent. Faith based institutions reported the highest levels of service with 49 percent.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION: Contact: Joe Moore 773-298-3937 or jmoore@sxu.edu

John Hart to deliver SXU Honors Program Guest Lecture

Water activist helped found Caribou Clean Water Partnership

Chicago (March 11, 2008) Water activist John Hart will deliver Saint Xavier University’s Ninth Annual Honors Program Guest Lecture at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 8 at Saint Xavier’s Chicago campus, located at 3700 W. 103rd St.

The event, which is free and open to the public, will be held in the Butler Reception Room, located in the Warde Academic Center.In his lecture, titled “A Partnership for Clean Water: The Politics of Conservation,” Hart will describe work being done to prevent mining pollution in the Greater Yellowstone region and his own quest to protect the sacred natural resources he loves.

The lecture will address issues SXU honors students are exploring in their interdisciplinary honors science course “The Bio-Politics of Water Pollution.” The students will travel to southern Idaho this summer to help prevent mining pollution.

A front-line activist in the struggle to protect America’s water, Hart is a founding member of the Caribou Clean Water Partnership. The group works to bridge the divide between environmentalists, farmers, ranchers and businesspeople to oppose further expansion of phosphate mining in southwest Idaho. He is Phosphate Campaign communications manager for the Greater Yellowstone Coalition.

Hart, who is originally from Idaho, said he learned of the pollution after moving back to his home state from the east coast to raise his family. He now aims to spread awareness of the problem and work for a solution.

“The pollution has been happening since before I was born and it’s something that has been kept undercover,” he said. “The lands and water around eastern Idaho have a big impact on who I am and how I was raised. It’s just wrong- it was not a hard choice for me to come aboard and help fight.”

Hart recently finished a post as a county administrator and director of economic development. He also has taught digital media, exhibited his art in galleries and museums in New York and Connecticut and illustrated the “Prince Valiant” comic strip.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Rick Ducat
773-298-3325 or ducat@sxu.edu

Saint Xavier University participates in Southside Irish St. Patrick’s Day Parade; 85 Saint Xavier students, alumni and staff travel with float

Chicago (March 11, 2008) Approximately 85 Saint Xavier University students, alumni and employees rode or walked with the SXU float during the 2008 Southside Irish Saint Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday.

Float participants met at Gilhooley's Grande Saloon on West 103rd and Pulaski, where they boarded shuttle buses that transferred them to the SXU float. All participants received a free green Gilhooley's at Saint Xavier University T-shirt.

“This was wonderful opportunity for the Saint Xavier family to step forward and support their university,” said Director of Community Relations Maureen Connor Kelly, who chaired the float committee. “Thanks to everyone who participated in this great event.”

Committee members included Shannon Center Director Jennifer Kjos, Kristy Devine and Jon-Pierre Bradley.

“There was such a great turnout of SXU students, staff, alumni and their families,” Kjos said. “The SXU Cougar mascot was a huge hit as he marched in front and took pictures with families along the parade route.”

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Saint Xavier University appoints director of development; Bill McGuire named to post

Chicago (March 10, 2008) Saint Xavier University announced the appointment of Bill McGuire as director of development on Monday, March 3.

McGuire, who was selected after a national search, will coordinate all fundraising efforts for the university. He will report to Vice President for University Advancement Steven Murphy.

“Mr. McGuire’s extensive fundraising and administrative experience at other outstanding institutions will provide leadership and clear direction as we pursue our goal of being recognized as a leading Catholic university,” Murphy said.

McGuire, of Park Ridge, has more than 20 years of development experience and most recently served for 12 years as vice president of The Associated Colleges of Illinois, a consortium of 23 liberal arts colleges and universities. Prior to becoming vice president, he was the consortium’s director of development for three years.

He has previously worked as associate director of development for WTTW/Chicago, director of major gifts for the Newberry Library, director of development information systems and director of development research at DePaul University, a consultant at Notre Dame University and Brookfield Zoo, a prospect researcher at University of Chicago and an adjunct professor of art history at Northern Illinois University.

“I am honored to be selected for this position and look forward to contributing to Saint Xavier’s growing culture of philanthropy in support of its academic mission, community service and Catholic identity,” McGuire said.

McGuire holds a B.A. in history from John Carroll University and an M.A. in art history from Villa Schifanoia Dominican University in Florence, Italy. He is a University of Chicago art history doctoral candidate.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Joe Moore
773-298-3937 or jmoore@sxu.edu

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