Saint Xavier University unveils new Web site: www.sxu.edu

Chicago (Oct. 31, 2008) –Saint Xavier University’s new public Web site is now online at http://www.sxu.edu. Reorganized pages designed for prospective students, parents, alumni and community members are now even easier to browse. Custom gateway pages and a powerful new search function provide the quick access visitors need most when learning about the University.

“A Web site is the ‘front porch’ of any 21st century institution,” said SXU Vice president for University Relations Robert Tenczar. “We encourage everyone to be our guest, visit our new site and learn more about Saint Xavier. Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make bring this project into fruition.”

SXU moved all internal functions to its new intranet site, which houses many of the tools students, faculty and staff use on the existing Web site, to guarantee a streamlined browsing experience.

The intranet site will have a personalized portal page, reorganized content and better search capabilities. Additionally, the portal page offers customizable news, events and Web links tailored specifically for you.

Beyond Internet and intranet pages, SXU Information Services has teamed with Google to provide students with a robust new e-mail system powered by Gmail, which will also go online Nov. 1. Each new MyMail account will provide more than six gigabytes of storage from famously reliable Google servers.

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

-SXU-

SXU Health Center offering children’s flu shots

Shots offered by appointment through November

Chicago (October 30, 2008) Saint Xavier University’s Health Center is offering children’s flu shots through the month of November. Vaccinations will be administered by appointment only at the Health Center.

For more information, including costs, please contact SXU’s Health Center at (773) 298-3712 or healthcenter@sxu.edu

-SXU-

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

John Callaway kicks off SXU’s 2008-09 Squeaky Weal Lecture Series

WTTW’s Friday Night with John Callaway host to speak on Nov. 11

Chicago (Oct. 28, 2008) John Callaway, host of WTTW’s Friday Night with John Callaway and former host of WTTW’s Chicago Tonight, will kick off Saint Xavier University’s 2008-09 Squeaky Weal Lecture Series at 6:30 pm, Tuesday, Nov. 11 in the Butler Reception Room of the Warde Academic Center at SXU’s Chicago Campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

The lecture, titled “John Callaway’s State of the Union,” is free and open to the public.
A legendary journalist, Callaway has been a news radio and television leader for 51 years. He worked for Chicago and New York CBS radio before hosting WTTW’s premier public affairs program, Chicago Tonight, for 15 years. He now is host and senior editor of WTTW’s Friday Night with John Callaway as well as host of the Chicago Stories anthology series.

Callaway has collected more than 100 awards during a career that spans more than half a century, including a Peabody Award and 17 Emmy Awards. In addition to his journalistic achievements, Callaway received numerous honorary doctoral degrees from such institutions as Northwestern University and the John Marshall College of Law. He also was the founding director of the University of Chicago’s William Benton Fellowships in Broadcast Journalism Program.

Callaway also authored the bestselling book of essays The Thing of It Is and recently wrote and performed a pair of autobiographical shows titled Life is…Maintenance and John Callaway Tonight.

SXU’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.

For more information, please contact the Center for Religion and Public Discourse at (773) 298-3981 or mareska@sxu.edu.

-SXU-

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

SXU “Super Star” Monica Ryan honored for work in Health Center

Health Center director a finalist of VNA’s Super Star in Community Nursing Award

Chicago (Oct. 28, 2008) Saint Xavier University Health Center Director Monica Ryan DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, was named a finalist for the VNA Foundation’s 2008 Super Star in Community Nursing Award.

Ryan, an assistant nursing professor at SXU, received a $5,000 award and recognition for the establishment of and her dedication to the SXU Health Clinic.

The VNA Foundation, formerly the Visiting Nurse Association Foundation, gives financial support to nonprofit organizations offering home- and community-based care to the medically underserved. The Super Star Award was introduced in 2001 to acknowledge the service that public health/community health nurses provide, recognize the value of nursing in the community, help attract young people to the profession and contribute to efforts to decrease the nursing shortage.

Ryan ensures SXU’s Health Center offers high quality care for students while keeping the costs low. Unlike most university student health centers, Ryan designed SXU’s to also serve members of the surrounding community, including the underinsured and uninsured.

The center has established partnerships with a number of schools, healthcare providers, governmental bodies and community organizations. Ryan distributes an annual newsletter that outlines the services at the SXU Health Center and reaches more than 70 local schools. She also developed a relationship with Chicago 19th Ward Ald. Ginger Rugai’s office and recently provided dental services, skin cancer screenings and flu shots.

“I feel privileged to be in the company of the other VNA award winners,” Ryan said, “I am humbled by an award like this and grateful to the VNA Foundation for honoring nurses that dedicate their lives to helping others in their communities. My hope is that this will encourage more young people to pursue public health nursing and give back to their communities where support is so desperately needed.”

Ryan has received several grants from organizations to support community outreach initiatives through the SXU Health Center. These include funds from the AT&T Foundation to expand community outreach; the Agatha O’Brien Ministry Fund of the Sisters of Mercy Regional Community of Chicago to develop a specialist referral network for health center clients; and a grant from the VNA Foundation to establish a health clinic at St. Margaret of Scotland Elementary School in Chicago’s Washington Heights neighborhood.

-SXU-

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

SXU Guitar Ensemble & Jazz Combo Fall Concert

Performance on Nov. 7

Chicago (Oct. 28, 2008) Saint Xavier University’s Guitar Ensemble and Jazz Combo will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 7 at McGuire Hall in the Warde Academic Center at SXU’s Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd Street.

The SXU Guitar Ensemble will perform works by J.S. Bach, Enrique Granados, and George F. Handel. The SXU Jazz Combo will play music by Luiz Bonfa, John Coltrane, Benny Golson, Sam Jones, and Horace Silver.

Admission is $6 for students and $5 for seniors. For more information, please contact SXU’s Music Department at (773) 298-3421.

-SXU-

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

SXU 2008-09 film series continues with “Chinatown”

Noir classic being shown as part of “Film and the City” series

Chicago (October 27, 2008) Saint Xavier University will screen the Oscar-winning 1974 film “Chinatown” at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 11 in SXU’s McGuire Hall, Warde Academic Center, 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago.

The screening is free and open to the public and is the third in SXU’s 2008-09 film series, “Film and the City.”

Directed by Roman Polanski, the noir film is set in Southern California. Hired to investigate a seemingly routine adultery case, Private Detective JJ “Jake” Gittes, played by Jack Nicholson, soon finds himself embroiled in a world of deceit, secrets, sex and political corruption.

Nicholson and Faye Dunaway both received Oscar Nominations for their roles. Robert Towne won an Oscar for Best Writing, Original Screen Play. Towne also received the 1975 Edgar award for Best Motion Picture at the Edgar Allan Poe Awards.

“Chinatown” is 131 minutes long and will be projected by DVD. This year’s film series is partially supported by a grant for 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.

-SXU-

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

SXU student receives 2008 Student Laureate Award

(Left to right) Lincoln Academy of Illinois Chancellor John B. Simon, Saint Xavier University student and Lincoln Academy 2008 Student Laureate award recipient Alyson Kelley and Illinois Deputy Governor Louanner Peters at the Annual Student Laureate Ceremony on Oct. 18 in Springfield, Ill.

Chicago (Oct. 27, 2008) Saint Xavier University elementary education major Alyson Kelley, of Aurora, received The Lincoln Academy of Illinois 2008 Student Laureate Award on Oct. 18 in the Hall of Representatives of the Old State Capitol in Springfield, Ill.

Kelley was recognized for her overall excellence in curricular and co-curricular activities. She maintains a 3.66 grade point average and student teaches social studies and reading for fifth and sixth grades at Chicago’s Mount Greenwood School as she works on her middle school endorsement. Kelley also served as team captain of the SXU softball team in 2007 and 2008 and worked as a resident assistant, Quest Retreat and FOCUS leader and worked with the Peer Ministry program.

-SXU-

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

USA Today features Saint Xavier Professor's examination of the relationship between televisiona and Major League Baseball

USA Today ran an extensive article on Monday, Oct. 27 about Saint Xavier University Communications Professor James Walker's new book, "Centerfield Shot: A History of Baseball on Television," written about the relationship between broadcast television and professional baseball. Read the USA Today article here. Walker co-wrote the book with Duquesne professor Rob Bellamy.

To learn more about "Centerfield Shot," visit http://centerfieldshot.com/.

To interview James Walker, please call (773) 298-3937 or (cell) (773) 203-6671.

Tickets going fast for James Carville and Mary Matalin at Saint Xavier University

America’s favorite political couple to give election primer 7 p.m., Oct. 30 at SXU Shannon Center

Chicago (Oct. 21, 2008)— There are still tickets left to see America’s favorite bipartisan couple, James Carville and Mary Matalin, showcase their razor political wit at the Saint Xavier University Shannon Center Thursday, Oct. 30, just days before the November presidential election.

Tickets are $20 each and are available by visiting www.sxu.edu/politics or by calling (866) 468-3401. A limited number of $75 priority main floor tickets are also available. SXU students may receive one free ticket by visiting Campus Life in room L-103. Faculty and staff should contact Special Events at specialevents@sxu.edu. A valid Cougar Card number must be presented to process your request.

Carville and Matalin, who are married, are two of the foremost Democratic and Republican political consultants in the country.

Carville was lead strategist of Bill Clinton’s successful presidential bid in 1992 and was honored as Campaign Manager of the Year by the American Association of Political Consultants in 1993. Since then, he has served as a consultant to presidents and prime ministers around the world and is a regular CNN commentator and contributor.

Matalin formerly served as assistant to President George W. Bush and counselor to Vice President Dick Cheney, and was the first White House official to hold that double title. She held senior positions in the George H. W. Bush 1988 campaign and was appointed chief of staff for the Republican National Council. She hosted CNN’s critically acclaimed debate program Crossfire and other political shows.

Matalin now operates Threshold, a new conservative publishing imprint, and sits on the editorial board of Campaigns & Elections magazine. She is vice president of the Washington Humane Society and is a board member of the Cheney Cardiovascular Institute.

This event is sponsored by the Saint Xavier University Office for University Relations.

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

-SXU-

Associated Press story includes SXU's efforts to preserve its mission and heritage

Read the Associated Press story noting Saint Xavier University’s efforts to preserve its Sisters of Mercy mission and heritage. The story has appeared in several venues both within the United States and internationally, including San Diego, The Chicago Sun-Times, The Chicago Tribune, London and Canada.

Saint GreenBike Program in New York Times

Saint Xavier University’s GreenBike program was featured in the Oct. 20, edition of the New York Times. Read the article by Katie Zezima featuring SXU's unique bike share program here.

SXU dedicates new green residence hall

Mother Agatha O’Brien Hall named after founding Mercy Sister

Chicago (Oct. 17, 2008) Saint Xavier University dedicated its newest resident hall, Mother Agatha O’Brien Hall, on Wednesday, Oct. 17 at 4:45 p.m. on SXU’s Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

"With the dedication today of the new residence hall, named as a tribute to Mother Mary Agatha O’Brien, R.S.M., one of the six founders of the Sisters of Mercy of Chicago, another important event of the campus master plan unfolds," said SXU President Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D. "Through this legacy name, we celebrate Mother Agatha’s pioneering achievements and the continued ministry of the Sisters of Mercy."

The 36,664 square-foot residence hall is the sixth co-ed residence hall on the Chicago campus. In the ceremony, the University officially named the building after Mother Mary Agatha O’Brien, R.S.M., in recognition of her founding role as one of the original Chicago Sisters of Mercy. O’Brien was the first superior of the Sisters of Mercy who originally came to Chicago from Ireland in 1846. She was 24 at the time.

The hall was built to LEED Gold Environmental Standards as set forth by the U.S. Green Building Council. Last year, SXU’s Arthur Rubloff Hall became the first university building in the state of Illinois to receive the coveted LEED Gold designation from the U.S. Green Building Council for environmentally friendly design elements.

The new hall was designed to use both natural and mechanical ventilation, and a 50-foot high circular glass stair tower draws tempered air to assist in summer night pre-cooling and winter heating. This concept improves building energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

Photo L to R: SXU Board of Trustees President Thomas Chomicz; Vice President for Mission and Heritage Sister Susan Sanders, R.S.M., Ph.D.; SXU President Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D.; SXU student Amanda Modelski, Assistant Vice President for Physical Facilities Paul Matthews.

The building uses 100 percent “Green-e” Power from mixed renewable energy products to carbon offset all electrical energy consumed in the residence. The roof features a solar reflection system, and the rain garden filters roof water runoff.

The indoor air quality in the student rooms is significantly above American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers Inc. (ASHRAE) standards. All student rooms have windows that can be opened to promote natural ventilation air patterns, harvest natural daylight and allow beautiful views of the Saint Xavier campus, providing all students with a closer connection to nature.

The architectural firm Solomon Cordwell Buenz and Associates provided designs for the building. The firm designed three previous residence halls for Saint Xavier, including Rubloff. The construction management firm is Henry Bros. Co. Civil engineering was conducted by Terra Civil Engineering. Environmental Systems Design, Inc. provided a mechanical engineering design.
Last spring, ASHRAE presented Saint Xavier University and Environmental Systems Design, Inc. with Chapter and Regional Engineering Technology Awards for Rubloff Hall. The awards recognized achievements in the design of new heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.

A leader in green practices, Saint Xavier is a member of the Illinois Sustainable University Compact, which has pledged to accomplish multiple environmentally sound goals by Dec. 31, 2010. These goals include energy purchases from renewable sources, reduced carbon emissions, and requiring green building practices for all new construction. More recently, SXU became the first Chicago university to sign the Presidents Climate Commitment, joining 557 other schools nationwide in a pledge to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions.

-SXU-

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact: Joe Moore at 773-298-3937

SXU hosts Legislative Breakfast

More than 100 area business people meet with elected officials

Photo from left to right: State Representative Kevin Joyce (D- 35), State Representative Jim Brosnahan (D-36), SXU President Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D., Cook County Commissioner John Daley (D-11), State Senator Ed Maloney (D-18).

Chicago (Oct. 16, 2008) In a partnership with the Beverly Area Planning Association and the Evergreen Park Chamber of Commerce, Saint Xavier University hosted the third annual "Breakfast with Your Legislators." Approximately 100 area business people attended the event on Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2008.

The day began with registration and networking as SXU President Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D., welcomed guests and legislators. Elected officials taking part included, State Senator Ed Maloney, D-18, State Representative Kevin Joyce, D-35, State Representative Jim Brosnahan, D-36, and Cook County Commissioner John P. Daley D-11.

Some of the topics legislators discussed included the impact of the current financial crisis on state and local government, the pros and cons of a constitutional convention, passage of a capital bill, and a Cook County sales tax increase.

“Our third 'Breakfast with Your Legislators' hosted by Saint Xavier University was a terrific success,” said SXU Director of Community and Government Relations Maureen Connor Kelly. “More than 100 area business people were able to meet and interact with our elected officials about a variety of topics.”

The event was sponsored by AT& T.

SXU Professor James Walker available for expert comment on significance of 60th TV broadcast of World Series

First World Series telecast in Chicago used retrofitted WWII Bomber to bridge networks

Chicago (Oct. 16, 2008) This year marks the 60th nationally televised World Series, now a technical marvel of graceful camera work, slow motion replay, and stunning graphics telecast in high definition with more than 17 million live viewers in the U.S. and millions more around the world.

It was not always so.

In 1948, radio still dominated the airwaves, and there was no global cable/satellite network connecting television stations across the country. America instead had Eastern and Midwestern television networks with no physical link between them for a live connection. Faced with a world series between the Cleveland Indians and the Boston Braves, technicians retrofitted a World War II-era B-29 bomber with television equipment.

The plan: bridge the networks by flying the bomber at 20,000 feet up and down western Pennsylvania, receiving baseball coverage and forwarding the signal another 250 miles. Results of the relay were less than seamless, but many delighted Ohioans and Pennsylvanians received clear signals on their televisions directly from the plane.

“This networking experiment failed to produce a reliable link, but demonstrated just how important televising the World Series was to the fledgling TV industry,” said Saint Xavier University Professor James R. Walker, Ph.D. “By linking the east coast and the Midwest, it began the nationalizing of television that culminated in the first live, coast to coast telecasts in 1951.”

Walker recently co-authored the book “Center Field Shot: A History of Baseball on Television.”

Since few Americans owned a television in 1948, they often gathered with other fans to watch the country’s premier sports event. RCA set up 100 televisions in Boston Commons, allowing an estimated 10,000 people to view the game. In Chicago, WGN positioned five projection televisions for a crowd at the Nathan Hale Court outside the Tribune Tower.

Walker and his co-author, Duquesne Professor Rob Bellamy, examine in their book how baseball helped nurture the new medium of television and how television in turn changed baseball, motivating MLB owners to create more teams, increase the number of post-season games and move the World Series and All-Star Game to prime time.

“In the past, the owners saw television as equal parts threat and savior,” Walk said. “The TV game threatened to keep fans from the park, but when free agency forced salaries dramatically higher, the medium provided more revenue to meet the game’s expanding payroll. In the modern era, Major League Baseball embraced the promotional power of television and aggressively used the Internet to expand its distribution of the televised game.”

To learn more about the exciting path of televised baseball or to interview Walker, please call (773) 298-3937 or (cell) (773) 203-6671. To see more information about his book “Center Field Shot,” please visit http://www.centerfieldshot.com/.



-SXU-

SXU senior Alyson Kelley to be Student Laureate of The Lincoln Academy of Illinois

Education major to receive student achievement award

Chicago (Oct. 14, 2008) Saint Xavier University has selected senior Alyson Kelley, of Aurora, to receive The Lincoln Academy of Illinois 2008 Student Laureate Award. The award is granted every year to an outstanding senior from each four-year, degree-granting institution of higher learning in Illinois.

Kelley is being recognized for her overall excellence in curricular and co- curricular involvement. She is an elementary education major with a concentration in communication who maintains a 3.66 grade point average. She is working on her middle school endorsement and is currently student teaching social studies and reading for fifth and sixth grades at Mount Greenwood School in Chicago.

Kelley also has excelled on the softball field and served as team captain in 2007 and 2008. She has received numerous awards and honors for her athletic abilities. Some of her on campus work includes becoming a Resident Assistant, Quest Retreat Leader, FOCUS (Freshman Orientation Centered on University Services) orientation leader, Peer Mentor for the Transitions course and being part of the Peer Ministry program.

Kelley also received the McGuire Award from the School of Education in 2007. The award recognizes an undergraduate student who exemplifies the qualities of the late Dr. George McGuire, who was known as a caring and humane person, a thoughtful speaker, a focused listener, and a generous teacher.

“Alyson embodies the spirit of a Saint Xavier University student and lives the Core Values of excellence, integrity and hospitality in her daily work,” said Carrie Schade, assistant vice president for Student Affairs. “Her academic accomplishments, leadership and personal values demonstrate clearly the qualities of the Lincoln Academy Student Laureate Award.”

Kelley will be presented with the Student Laureate Medallion and a certificate of achievement at an October 18 award ceremony in the Hall of Representatives of the Old State Capitol in Springfield, Ill.

Chris Rodgers in Sun-Times: Player of Week

Saint Xavier University senior cornerback Chris Rodgers was the featured athlete in this week's Chicago Sun Times small college sports section.

Rodgers was named NAIA Special Teams Player of the Week this week for his three blocked punts from Saturday's 23-7 homecoming victory over Walsh University (Ohio).

SXU’s 2008 Homecoming a success

SXU football wins, “Oktoberfest” themed party












Academic Distinguished Alumni Award Recipients - Friday, October 3, 2008 (Left to right) Angela Durante Ph.D., Provost; Judith A. Dwyer Ph.D., President; Interim Dean Kay Thurn Psy.D.; JoAnn Gruca, RN, Ph.D. ’64, ’80; Bess Friedheim ’06; Frances Dennis ’81; Judith Parker-Mastin, MA ’04; Dean Kathleen Alaimo, Ph.D.; Dean Leslie Petty, Ed.D.; Dean James Brodzinski, Pd.D.; Larry R. Rogers, Sr. ’74; Dean S. Beverly Gulley, Ph.D.

Chicago (Oct. 9, 2008) Alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends celebrated Saint Xavier University’s 2008 Homecoming with a variety of events from Oct. 3 to Oct. 5 at its Chicago campus.

The Alumni Association hosted the annual Golden Graduate Society Tea on Oct. 3 at Gilhooley’s Grande Saloon, followed by the All-Alumni Celebration honoring the classes of 1968, 1978, 1983 and 1988 in the Butler Reception Room in the Warde Academic Center.

Academic Alumni Awards were presented to several distinguished Alumni: JoAnn Gruca, RN, CS, Ph.D., ’64, ’80, School of Nursing Distinguished Alumna; Larry R. Rogers, Sr. ’74, College of Arts and Sciences Distinguished Alumnus; Judith Parker Mastin, M.A., ’04, George McGuire Award, School of Education; Justin McElwee ’09, George McGuire Student Award, School of Education; Frances Dennis, CBP, CCP, ’81, Graham School of Management Distinguished Alumna; and Bess Friedheim, ’06, School for Continuing and Professional Studies Distinguished Alumna.

The Oct. 4 activities began with the 8th Annual Cougar 5k Walk/Run at the Shannon Center with more than 800 participants and 100 volunteers turned out for the event. Afterwards, the Alumni Association hosted a pre-game family festival with activities for children, including pumpkin painting, a caricature artist, children’s games, clowns, a bean bag tournament, food vendors and more.

SXU’s Cougars defeated the Walsh University Cavaliers 23-6 in the Homecoming Football Game. Fans celebrated the victory at the 5th Quarter Oktoberfest party at Gilhooley’s Grande Saloon. The party honored the classes of 1998 and 2003, and featured live music, beer tasting, complimentary appetizers and a cash bar.

The weekend concluded on Oct. 5 with an Alumni Mass in McDonough Chapel, followed by the Alumni Association Awards Ceremony and Brunch in the Butler Reception Room in the Warde Academic Center. The Alumni Association honored the following graduates at the annual Alumni Brunch: Barbara Moore Pasquinelli ’61, Distinguished Alumni Award; Dr. Loretta Fisher Nolan ’48, Sister Dorothy Marie Peschon Award; Austin Schafer ’04, Rita A. Ford Faith in the Future Award; and Joel Sternberg, Ph.D., Faculty Recognition Award.

For more information about SXU’s 2008 Homecoming, please contact the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations, at (773) 298-3316 or alumni@sxu.edu. You may also find more information on the alumni website at www.sxu.edu\alumni.

Alumni Association Alumni Awards - Sunday, October 5, 2008 (Left to right) Dr. Loretta Fisher Nolan ’48; Judith A. Dwyer Ph.D., President; Austin Schafer ’04; Barbara Moore Pasquinelli ’61; Joel Sternberg, Ph.D.

-SXU-

Eighth Annual Cougar 5K Run/Walk draws more than 800 participants

Part of Saint Xavier University Homecoming weekend festivities

Chicago (Oct. 9, 2008) The 8th annual Cougar 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, Oct. 4 was a success with 840 registered participants and more than 100 volunteers.

The race started and finished at Saint Xavier’s Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St., and traveled through the heart of Evergreen Park. All participants received a long-sleeved T-shirt and a free ticket to the homecoming football game against Walsh University (Ohio).

The top male runner, former SXU Cross Country runner Steve Bugarin, beat the course record with a time of 15:56 minutes. Kathryn Galley was the top female runner with a time of 21:36 minutes. To view complete race results, log onto www.cararuns.org.

“I think this event has grown so much because we have found our niche with Homecoming,” said Jennifer Kjos, facility manager of Saint Xavier’s Shannon Center. “The Cougar 5k Run/Walk continues to grow because of all the great community support and feedback we receive every year.”

Complimentary refreshments were provided for all participants, including bagels, muffins, fruit, cookies, coffee and water. Race participants also enjoyed free services such as chair massages, blood pressure checks and stretching.

Sponsors of the Run/Walk included Gilhooley’s Grande Saloon, Chartwells, SouthtownStar, OccuSport, Pepsi, Greenwood Chiropractic, SXU Alumni Association, Running for Kicks, Village of Evergreen Park, Chicago Area Race Association (CARA), Gallagher Investments, Core Fitness and Physical Therapy, GO Promotions, Jimmy Johns, Machon and Machon, Pizza Man, Shannon Center members, and 21st Century Chiropractic.

Former SXU Cross Country runner Steve Bugarin of Chicago beats the SXU Cougar 5k course record with a time of 15:56 minutes.









-SXU-

SXU to host OYBike trainers this weekend

Saint Xavier will host representatives of the English company OyBike this weekend. OyBike representatives will train students and staff on features and maintenance of the University’s 65 new, shaft-driven Veloway bikes, which will soon be available to traverse the Chicago campus between computerized kiosks as part of the new SXU GreenBike program. Read the Oct. 8 SouthtownStar story.

SXU Gallery hosts painter Mary Porterfield

Exhibit to run through Oct. 22

Chicago (Oct. 7, 2008) Artist, teacher and occupational therapist Mary Porterfield’s work is being displayed until Oct. 22 at Saint Xavier University’s SXU Gallery, 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago.

Porterfield’s paintings draw upon experiences from her work as an occupational therapist. They portray her lack of control in helping those who cannot be saved as she attempts to bring organization to chaos.

Porterfield stated that the images she uses are drawn from “natural disasters and fragmented landscapes.”

“The hardships that my patients endure are a microcosm of a world besieged with tragedies, such as natural disasters and human suffering,” said Porterfield. “Reflecting upon my difficulty changing circumstances in the lives of my patients corresponds to the larger picture of being overwhelmed by the problems of humanity.”

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

Catholic Elementary School Initiative Gets a Shot in the Arm

SXU to provide St. Margaret Elementary School with nurse practitioner

Chicago (Oct. 6, 2008) Saint Xavier University, a champion of high-quality education at Chicago-area Catholic elementary schools, has received a grant to further enhance its ongoing partnership with St. Margaret of Scotland Elementary School in Chicago’s Washington Heights neighborhood. The grant from the VNA Foundation, which is for $101,734 over a two-year period, will fund a part-time nurse practitioner to provide primary care services to students at the school.

St. Margaret’s principal, Earl McKay, said student attendance suffers due to families’ inability to pay for medical care. This includes attendance due to non-compliance with state-required physicals and immunizations, as well as sick days due to acute health needs. As a result of the on-site nurse practitioner position, students will receive physicals and immunizations, as well as primary health care services.

SXU Interim Nursing Dean Kay Thurn, Psy.D., RN, said “We anticipate this partnership will mutually benefit the students at St. Margaret’s as well as the graduate and undergraduate nursing students at Saint Xavier, who will develop classroom-based educational presentations on topics such as wellness, hand washing, nutrition, exercise, and dental health.”

In 2006, a gift from Chicago philanthropist Richard Driehaus established the Catholic Elementary School Initiative at Saint Xavier University. SXU has worked closely with St. Margaret’s on teacher professional development, student enrichment activities, and successful organizational business models. A grant from the AT&T Foundation is underwriting the development of health and fitness programs for the school’s curriculum. Thanks to funding from the Big Shoulders Fund, some of the teacher professional development models developed between Saint Xavier University and St. Margaret’s will be expanded to include teachers at St. Philip Neri and Nativity BVM elementary schools, both in Chicago.
-SXU-

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

Francis Eugene Cardinal George, O.M.I., to receive Shield of Saint Xavier at 24th Annual President’s Scholarship Ball

Chicago (Oct. 6, 2008) – Francis Eugene Cardinal George, O.M.I., will receive the Shield of Saint Xavier at the 24th Annual President’s Scholarship Ball on Saturday, March 21, 2009 at the Hilton Chicago.

“The Shield of Saint Xavier is our University’s highest honor. It is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment and service to the greater Chicago community, particularly to the city’s Catholic institutions,” said SXU President Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D. “We believe that Cardinal George’s leadership and service to the Archdiocese of Chicago exemplify the ideals of Saint Francis Xavier.”

His Eminence Francis Eugene Cardinal George, O.M.I., eighth Archbishop of Chicago, was born in Chicago to Francis J. and Julia R. McCarthy George on Jan. 16, 1937. He is the first native Chicagoan to serve as Archbishop of Chicago.

After attending St. Pascal Grade School on Chicago’s northwest side and St. Henry Preparatory Seminary in Belleville, Ill., he entered the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate on Aug. 14, 1957. He studied theology at the University of Ottawa, Canada, and was ordained a priest by Most Rev. Raymond Hillinger on Dec. 21, 1963, at St. Pascal Church.

Cardinal George earned a master’s degree in philosophy at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. in 1965 and a doctorate in American philosophy at Tulane University, New Orleans, La., in 1970. In 1971, he received a master’s degree in theology from the University of Ottawa in Canada.

Cardinal George went on to hold several prominent posts during his career before being installed on May 27, 1996, as the ninth Archbishop of Portland. Less than a year later, on April 8, 1997, Pope John Paul II named him the eighth Archbishop of Chicago, to the See left vacant by the death of His Eminence Joseph Cardinal Bernardin on Nov. 14, 1996. His installation by Agostino Cardinal Cacciavillan, then Archbishop and Apostolic Pro-Nuncio for the United States, took place at Holy Name Cathedral on May 7, 1997. On Jan. 18, 1998, Pope John Paul II announced Archbishop George’s elevation to the Sacred College of Cardinals. For Cardinal George’s complete biography, please visit: http://www.archchicago.org/.

SXU Trustees Mary MacLaren and Brian Shannon, Jr. will serve as Ball co-chairs.

The President’s Scholarship Ball has raised millions of dollars for the President’s Scholarship Program, which provides financial support to Saint Xavier’s most deserving students. The black-tie event is open to the public. For information or reservations please contact (773) 298-3311 or specialevents@sxu.edu with “President’s Scholarship Ball” in the subject line.

For media inquiries, please contact Joe Moore, director of media relations, at (773) 298-3937 or jmoore@sxu.edu.


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

SXU confers posthumous graduate certificate to fallen Chicago Police Officer

The late Nathanial Taylor Jr. awarded certificate in Fraud Examination and Management

Chicago (Oct. 3, 2008) Saint Xavier University has conferred a posthumous graduate certificate to Chicago Police Officer Nathaniel "Nate" Taylor Jr., who was shot and killed Sunday, Sept. 28, while serving a warrant. A 2007 Saint Xavier University graduate, he was enrolled in the Graham School of Management’s financial fraud examination and management MBA program.

“Officer Taylor was by all accounts a warm and dedicated person with a bright future,” said SXU President Judith A. Dwyer. “Saint Xavier has a long educational partnership with the Chicago Police Department, and we feel keenly such a tragic loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with Officer Taylor’s wife, Alcione, and young daughter, Naomi, their family and extended family throughout the Chicago Police Department.”

President Dwyer presented the certificate to Officer Taylor’s wife, Alcione, at his funeral service today in St. Bede the Venerable Roman Catholic Church.

-SXU-

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

SXU To Host Fall Safety Fest 2008

Event a part of Alcohol Awareness week

Chicago (October 1, 2008) The Saint Xavier University Student Health Center will host its Fall Safety Fest 2008 on Thursday, Oct. 23 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. in Parking Lot 2 of SXU’s Chicago Campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

Attendees will receive free food, education about sexually transmitted diseases, drug abuse, sexual assault awareness, and representation from Pillars education about pornography and pop-culture. A DUI simulator from PEERS will also be a part of the festivities.

The event is in conjunction with Alcohol Awareness Week and is free to SXU students. It is an effort by SXU and community organizations to educate students on healthy behaviors regarding drugs, alcohol and other related choices that could affect their safety.

“This exciting event will bring awareness and education to our students concerning very important and sensitive issues,” said Michelle Bohacik, Coordinator of Alcohol and Other Drug Prevention Program. “We hope to provide trusted information resources for our students.”

For more information, contact event coordinator Michelle Bohacik at bohacik@sxu.edu or (773) 298-3914.

-SXU-

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

SXU 2008-2009 film series continues with “Call Northside 777”

Series theme is “Film and the City”

Chicago (October 1, 2008) Saint Xavier University will screen the 1948 black and white film “Call Northside 777” at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 14 in Saint Xavier University’s McGuire Hall, Warde Academic Center, 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago.

The screening is free and open to the public and is the second film in the 2008-09 SXU Film Series, “Film and the City.”

Filmed on location in Chicago, director Henry Hathaway’s film follows a reporter, played by Jimmy Stewart, as he works to prove the innocence of man convicted of a policeman’s murder 11 years before. The film offers a realistic view of life in Chicago during the Great Depression and highlights issues that still resonate in today.

The movie won the 1949 Edgar award for Best Motion Picture at the Edgar Allen Poe Awards.
The film is 111 minutes long and will be projected by DVD. This year’s film series, titled “Film and the City” is partially supported by a grant for the Illinois Arts Council, the Saint Xavier 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.


-SXU-

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

Chicago Public Health Comm. Terry Mason discusses Obama and McCain health care policies and calls for holistic approach

Catholic Colloquium lecture series at Saint Xavier University

(From left: SXU Vice President for University Mission and Heritage Sr. Susan Sanders, R.S.M., Ph.D., Chicago Department of Public Health Commissioner Terry Mason, M.D., and SXU School of Nursing Interim Dean Kay Thurn, Psy.D., R.N. Mason spoke about Catholic social teaching in relation to American health policy on Oct. 1 as part of SXU's 2008-09 Catholic Colloquium lecture series.

Chicago (Oct. 2, 2008) “Absence of disease is not health,” Chicago Department of Public Health Commissioner Terry Mason, M.D., said during a lecture last night on Saint Xavier University’s Chicago campus. Rather, Mason said, health is a combination of behavioral, cultural, economic, educational, physical and spiritual factors.

Mason spoke on Catholic social teaching in relation to U.S. health care policy as part of Saint Xavier University’s 2008-09 Catholic Colloquium Series. He discussed the proposed health care policies of presidential candidates Barack Obama and John McCain. He also described some of the major problems facing America’s health care system, such as the need for identifying each patient in a unique way and the soaring cost of American health care.

“The United States spends twice as much as comparative countries to achieve lower life expectancies,” Mason said.

Mason was appointed Public Health Commissioner by Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley in 2005 and is leading the mission to make Chicago one of the nation’s healthiest cities. He champions holistic approaches to health management, the role of family in building healthier communities and the elimination of disparities for underserved communities.

He served as chief of Urology at Mercy Hospital and Medical Center in Chicago and as assistant professor of surgery at the University of Illinois at Chicago's (UIC) College of Medicine. He is a faculty member at UIC’s School of Public Health.

Mason’s popular radio talk show, Doctor in the House, airs on WVON radio each week, and he is a frequent guest on local as well as national television and radio programs.

The 2008-09 Catholic Colloquium series focuses on four key principles of Catholic social teaching, which include human dignity; the common good; solidarity with those who suffer, especially the poor; and subsidiartity, where those who are closest to issues are the ones encouraged most to participate in decisions affecting their lives.

The annual series is sponsored by the Office for University Mission and Heritage. For more information about the lecture series, please contact Kathy Mareska at (773) 298- 3981.