SXU Job Fair listed by Time Out Chicago in Top Five Things to Do Today

Time Out Chicago lists today's SXU Job Fair as one of Chicago's Top Five Things To Do Today.

Today's job fair, which is open to the entire community, is from noon to 3 p.m. in the Shannon Center, located at 3700 West 103rd Street, Chicago, IL.

Click here to see TOC Five Things to Do.

For more information about the job fair, click here.

Former SXU Baseball Standout Involved in MLB Trade

Former SXU standout Luke Gregerson is headed to the San Diego Padres

Jupiter, Fla. – Former Saint Xavier University standout relief pitcher/outfielder Luke Gregerson (Lyons, Ill./Morton) was “the player to be named” that completed a Major League Baseball (MLB) trade Monday between the St. Louis Cardinals and the San Diego Padres that originated in December 2008 and sent shortstop Khalil Greene from San Diego to St. Louis.

Gregerson joins rightie Mark Worrell, who was announced as part of the deal when it first took place on December 4, 2008. The Cardinals selected the former Cougar closer in the 28th of the 2006 MLB First-Year Player Draft.

Gregerson, 24, spent the 2008 season at Double-A Springfield. He made 57 appearances, all in relief, posting a 3.35 ERA in 75 1/3 innings. He struck out 78 against 26 walks and allowed six home runs, collecting 10 saves for the S-Cards. Gregerson has gone 16-12 overall with 48 saves, a 2.72 ERA (52 ER/172.1 IP) and 196 strikeouts in 138 relief appearances over parts of three minor league seasons in the Cardinals organization (2006-08). He joined the Padres in Big League camp Tuesday.

On the mound for SXU, Gregerson had a stellar senior season as the team’s closer in 2006 compiling nine saves and a 3-1 win-loss record with an impressive 0.68 earned-run average (ERA). In addition, as the team’s starting right fielder over 58 games, he earned both CCAC and Region VII Player of the Year honors. Gregerson hit .330 (72-for-218) and recorded a team-leading 49 runs-batted-in (RBI) and 12 stolen bases. He also posted 15 doubles, five home runs, and 46 runs scored.

Saint Xavier Professor James Walker, Ph.D. discusses Bear, Sports and Why Men Love them on WGN Chicago

Saint Xavier University Communications Professor James Walker discusses the chapter he co-authored with SXU Professor Nelson Hathcock in the recently released book, “Sport, Beer, and Gender: Promotional Culture and Contemporary Social Life.”

View the new SXU Television Commercial!

Liberation Frequency

Check out SXU Radio Station WXAV 88.3 FM's Liberation Frequency. You can stream WXAV programing at www.wxav.com. The best college radio in Chicago.

SXU to receive sustainability award May 16 from U.S. Green Building Council

SXU’s Paul Matthews elected to USGBC – Chicago Chapter’s Board of Directors

Chicago (March 26, 2009) The U.S. Green Building Council – Chicago Chapter will recognize Saint Xavier University’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint with a 2009 Natural Leader Award on May 16 in a ceremony for award recipients at the Swissotel in Chicago.

Additionally, SXU Assistant Vice President for Facilities Management Paul Matthews recently was elected to the USGBC – Chicago Chapter’s Board of Directors. Matthews heads Saint Xavier’s Office of Sustainability, which oversees several environmentally friendly initiatives such as Saint Xavier’s GreenBike Share Program.

Saint Xavier will be recognized by the USGBC with the SMALL feet/large FEAT award for excellence in organizational change. The award recognizes Saint Xavier’s efforts to achieve carbon neutrality, such as its Greenhouse Gas Audit and LEED-Gold designated Rubloff Hall, the first Illinois higher education building to receive the designation.

The Greenhouse Gas Audit evaluated the University’s carbon footprint and identified areas where reductions could be made, such as student and employee travel. Rubloff Hall is the Chicago campus’ newest residence hall, which utilizes energy efficient design and operates on 100 percent clean source energy.

For more information about Saint Xavier’s green initiatives please visit http://greencampus.sxu.edu/

The USGBC is a national non-profit working to promote buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. The USGBC's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Rating System is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high performance green buildings.

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

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SXU’s 2008-09 Catholic Colloquium lecture series ends on April 7

Terrence J. Rynne, Ph.D., to discuss public policy, war, peace and justice

Chicago (Mar. 26, 2009) Terrence J. Rynne, Ph.D., will discuss how Catholic social teaching can affect national policy on war, peace and justice as the final speaker in Saint Xavier University’s 2008-09 Catholic Colloquium lecture series.

The lecture, which is free and open to the public, is at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Apr. 7, in the Butler Reception Room of the Warde Academic Center of Saint Xavier’s Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

Rynne’s discussion, titled “War and Peace: Public Policy, Human Dignity, and the Common Good,” will examine how key principles of Catholic social teaching applied to matters of war, peace, and justice could foster America’s identity and reputation as a peaceable country.

Rynne is a teacher, an entrepreneur and the author of Gandhi and Jesus: The Saving Power of Nonviolence. He is co-president of the Sally and Terry Rynne Foundation, which is dedicated to promoting peace and the empowerment of women. The Foundation recently funded the launch of Marquette University’s Center for Peacemaking.

“We are eager to welcome an advocate for peace and justice such as Dr. Rynne to Saint Xavier,” said Sister Susan Sanders, R.S.M., Ph.D., vice president for University Mission and Heritage, which sponsors the Catholic Colloquium series. “Catholic social teaching provides a powerful moral and ethical framework for individuals, and Dr. Rynne can address its connections to national policy.”

The 2008-09 Catholic Colloquium lecture series addresses the responsibilities of a Catholic university to its students, faculty, staff and the broader Catholic and civic communities. This year’s lectures focus on Catholic social teaching and explore the thoughts of elders from various communities about how the nation’s new president and administration might approach public policy.

For more information, please contact the Office for University Mission and Heritage at (773) 298-3981 or mareska@sxu.edu.

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SXU raises more than $250,000 for student scholarships

24th Annual President’s Scholarship Ball honors Cardinal George

(from left) Saint Xavier University President Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D; His Eminence Francis Cardinal George, O.M.I., eighth Archbishop of Chicago; Saint Xavier Trustees and 24^th Annual President’s Scholarship Ball co-Chairs Brian O. Shannon Jr. and Kitty Shannon. (Not pictured: Saint Xavier Trustee and Ball co-Chair Mary MacLaren.)

Chicago (March 24, 2009) Saint Xavier University raised more than $250,000 in net proceeds for student scholarships at its 24th Annual President’s Scholarship Ball on Saturday, March 21. More than 500 guests attended a delightful evening of dining and dancing at the Hilton Chicago’s historic Grand Ballroom.

His Eminence Francis Cardinal George, O.M.I., eighth Archbishop of Chicago, was awarded the Shield of Saint Xavier, the University’s highest honor. Cardinal George was recognized for his extraordinary service and commitment to the greater Chicago area, particularly to Catholic higher education.

“It was our great honor to recognize His Eminence Francis Cardinal George with the Shield of Saint Xavier,” said University President Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D. “We thank the Ball’s co-Chairs, Trustees Mary MacLaren, Brian O. Shannon Jr. and Kitty Shannon, for their tremendous efforts in making this evening such a success. I would also like to thank Saint Xavier student Shelby Stercic, who so eloquently spoke about this most important cause during the evening’s program.”

All proceeds from the Ball go to the Presidential Scholarship Program, which provides financial support to Saint Xavier's most deserving students. Since the Ball’s inception in 1985, more than 1,600 students have received Presidential Scholarship awards ranging from $4,580 to $12,000. Currently, more than 300 SXU students receive Presidential Scholarships.

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Cook County honors Sister Susan Sanders, R.S.M., Ph.D., for “vital contribution”

Left to Right: Sister Susan Sanders and Chicago Alderman Ginger Rugai

Chicago (March 24, 2009) Sister Susan Sanders, R.S.M., Ph.D., vice president for the Office of University Mission and Heritage was recognized for her “vital contribution to improving the quality of life in her community” and her “widely published work on the nonprofit sector and the economic and social contributions such organizations make to the common good.”

On Friday, March 13, Sanders was among 17 honorees recognized from each Cook County district to receive the Unsung Heroine Award. Sponsored by Women’s Commissioner Alderman Ginger Rugai and Cook County Commissioner John P. Daley, Sanders invited seven guests, including Sr. Ann Flanagan, R.S.M., from SXU University Advancement; Sr. Joy Clough, R.S.M., and Kathy Mareska of the Office of University Mission and Heritage.

Sanders also was honored for founding Saint Xavier’s Center for Religion and Public Discourse. Cook County and its Commission on Women’s Issues give the Unsung Heroine Awards each March, which is Women’s History Month. The awards highlight the powerful impact women have on the development of social, cultural, economic and political institutions.

“I was honored to be nominated by two distinguished public servants of the people of Cook County, Commissioner Daley and Alderman Rugai,” said Sanders. “And I feel humbled because it’s really through the joint efforts of the Office for University Mission and Heritage and working with Sr. Joy Clough and Kathy Mareska that we are able to produce such a successful program for the Center for Religion and Public Discourse.”

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FOR MORE INFORMATION

Joe Moore Rick Ducat
Dir. of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or jmoore@sxu.edu

SXU hosts orchestral tribute to the Grateful Dead

Second performance of the Dead Symphony ever held in the U.S.

Chicago (March 20, 2009) Saint Xavier University recently hosted a performance of the Dead Symphony, an orchestral tribute to the music of the iconic San Francisco rock band, the Grateful Dead.



Musicians from Saint Xavier, Marian Catholic High School and Vandercook College of Music performed the symphony, which was written by Lee Johnson.

The performance, which was held in the Ensemble Performance Space at Saint Xavier’s Chicago campus, was only the second time this unique composition has been performed in the United States.

For more information about Saint Xavier’s music department, please visit www.sxu.edu, keyword: music.

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Watch an SXU Voices and Visions Video Montage

Saint Xavier University celebrates Mission Day

Ceremony observes Mercy Mission, honors service



Chicago (March 19, 2009) Students, faculty and staff attended Saint Xavier University’s Mission Day ceremonies on Wednesday, March 18 in the Warde Academic Center 4th Floor Board Room, where President Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D., presented the University’s three annual service awards.

Winners of this year’s service awards are: Jennifer Betcher, ’09, of Homer Glen, who received the Mother Mary Paulita Morris, R.S.M. Student Service Award; Assistant to the Dean of the School of Education Mary Kean Coffey, ’90, who received the Sister Isidore Perrigo, R.S.M. Staff Service Award; and Margaret Bogacz, D.A., ’64, who received the Saint Xavier University Faculty Service Award.

Mission Day, a new University-wide observance, calls attention to Saint Xavier’s educational mission and provides an occasion for all members of the University community to renew their commitment to the educational enterprise.

Saint Xavier University, a Catholic institution inspired by the heritage of the Sisters of Mercy, educates men and women to search for truth, to think critically, to communicate effectively, and to serve wisely and compassionately in support of human dignity and the common good.

Mission Day is coordinated by the Office for University Mission and Heritage to complement Saint Xavier’s other all-University observances – Mercy Day and Founders’ Day – all of which focus on the University’s educational mission, Catholic identity and Mercy heritage.

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Saint Xavier Professor uses decades of comic books to view Cold War

Matthew J. Costello, Ph.D., releases Secret Identity Crisis: Comic Books and the Unmasking of Cold War America

Chicago (March 19, 2009) Saint Xavier University Professor Matthew J. Costello, Ph.D., examines the second half of the American 20th century history through four decades of comic books in his new book on Continuum Press: "Secret Identity Crisis: Comic Books and the Unmasking of Cold War America."

The political scientist explores how superhero comic books reflect a vision of American identity, with a specific emphasis on several Marvel titles that represent the core of the political economy of the Marvel Universe. He argues that how Americans viewed themselves through the 1950s and 1960s began to break down under the onslaught of Cold War debacles such as Vietnam, Watergate and the Great Inflation of the 1970s.

Americans increasingly came to question the ability to articulate any clear national identity. Specifically, ideas of American virtue and progress were treated with skepticism, leaving only a radical materialistic individualism to define the American self, creating significant problems for public discourse and political action in the 21st century.

Costello cites the superhero comic is particularly useful for exploring ideas of national identity, as dual and secret identities are a major element of the genre. The stark contrasts between the hero—the identity to which we aspire—and the villain—the other we seek to avoid—clearly reference cultural archetypes.

Comic books are a unique medium in that they provide a wonderful artifact in the form of a continuous narrative from 1962 to the present, Costello said. While the characters and their enemies remain basically the same, the context in which their actions take place change dramatically and lends great insight into how America has seen itself.

Costello focuses his book primarily on the Marvel Universe, including Captain America, Iron Man, Nick Fury and The Hulk, but also discusses the DC Universe and Watchmen. He was recently interviewed by an Australian documentary crew traveling America for a documentary on comics. To learn more about the documentary, visit http://www.comic-doc.com/.

If you would like to reach Costello for an interview, please call (773) 298-3937 or jmoore@sxu.edu.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION
Joe Moore
Dir. of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or jmoore@sxu.edu

GreenBike Share Program cited on ABC Austin's Web Site

ABC Austin's Green Web page notes SXU’s GreenBike Share Program here.

Learn more about Saint Xavier's GreenBike Program and other efforts to go green, including its new Office of Sustainability at http://greencampus.sxu.edu/.

Chicago Tribune columnist to speak at Saint Xavier University

Mary Schmich will speak at next Squeaky Weal Lecture

Chicago (March 18, 2009) Chicago Tribune columnist Mary Schmich will discuss change in the new millennium as Saint Xavier University continues its 2008-09 Squeaky Weal Lecture Series on Tuesday, March 31.

Schmich’s presentation, titled “Adapt or Die: Surviving Change in the New Millennium,” will take place in the Butler Reception Room of the Warde Academic Center at 6:30 p.m. The lecture is free and open to the public.

Schmich attended Harvard on a Neiman Fellowship for journalism, was a Pulitzer Prize finalist, received a Studs Terkel award and has been named Illinois Author of the Year by the Illinois Association of Teachers of English. Her column, “Wear Sunscreen,” became a bestselling book and CD.

“We’re eager to have Ms. Schmich bring her creative, thoughtful, and sometimes wonderfully wry insights to our academic and local communities,” said Sister Joy Clough, R.S.M., coordinator of the Squeaky Weal Lecture Series. “Saint Xavier University is pleased to foster life long learning and the common good through opportunities such as this guest lecture.”

Saint Xavier’s Squeaky Weal lecture series explores issues of public concern with an emphasis on their religious, moral or ethical implications for the common good. 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, or click here.

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SXU wins Admissions Advertising Award

“Success with Purpose” television ad receives Bronze

Chicago (March 18, 2009) Saint Xavier University recently received a Bronze award for its “Success with Purpose” television ad in Higher Ed Marketing’s 24th Annual Admissions Advertising Awards.

Saint Xavier’s ad, which was created by Creative Communication Associates, placed in the “Television Advertising/Single Ad” category in the “School with 5,000-9,999 students” group.

Please click here to view the ad.

The Admissions Advertising Awards is the largest educational advertising competition in the nation, evaluating more than 2,000 individual entries from more than 1,000 colleges, universities and secondary schools.

For more information about Saint Xavier, please visit www.sxu.edu.

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SXU offers non-credit Irish Studies at Chicago and Orland Park Campuses

Students will receive $70 discount if they register for more than one class

Chicago (March 17, 2009) Registration has started for Saint Xavier University’s highly successful non-credit Irish Studies certificate program this fall at the Chicago and Orland Park Campuses.

Students explore Ireland’s heritage through an interdisciplinary program of
history, the Gaelic language, literature, art, film and music.

Saint Xavier, which traces its roots to the Sisters of Mercy in Dublin,
Ireland, offers the program at both campuses through the School for Continuing
and Professional Studies. Registration for a single class is $185, or $300 for
registration of two classes – a discount of $70.

Classes begin in September and will include “Irish Women’s Writers:
Contemporary Short Stories by Women by Ireland,” “Ireland Since WW II,”
and “Bill Clinton, Irish Soccer & Riverdance: Ireland’s Coming of Age and the
People and Events That Made it Happen,” “Gaelic Language,” and “Ireland’s
Culture.”

For more information or to register for Saint Xavier’s Irish Studies
Program, please call 708-633-4711 or email casillas@sxu.edu. For a
complete course description, please visit http://www.sxu.edu/Academic/Continuing/irish_studies_courses.asp.

Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart discusses Craig’s List lawsuit and other issues

Chicago (March 13, 2009) Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart addressed host of topics ranging from forced evictions to dog fighting rings at 2009’s second Breakfast with the Experts event sponsored by Saint Xavier University and the Beverly Area Planning Association on Thursday, March 12 in the SXU Butler Reception Room.

Dart also provided an expansive explanation of his lawsuit against Craig’s List to force the online site to do more to prevent sexual services from being advertised in its classified section. He said that he believes Craig’s List does not do more because the advertisements substantially increase the numbers of visitors to Craig’s List, which in turn allows for greater advertising rates to be charged.

“They have a specific financial reason for what they’re doing, and it’s horrible and it’s beyond immoral. It’s illegal,” Dart said.

Breakfast with the Experts brings notable business, community and civic leaders to the south side to share insights, experience and industry knowledge with local business people. The breakfasts are interactive and designed to engage all participants through networking, keynote address, and a question-and-answer period.

For more information about the breakfasts, please contact Marcia Walsh at 773-233-3100 or mwalsh@bapa.org, or visit www.bapa.org

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Contact: Joe Moore

773-298-3937 or jmoore@sxu.edu



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SXU Alumni Association Board of Directors welcomes 11 new members

Chicago (March 11, 2009) The Saint Xavier University Alumni Association welcomes 11 new members to its Board of Directors this spring. Representing more than 29,000 graduates of Saint Xavier University, the Alumni Association Board of Directors takes leadership in interpreting and guiding the needs of the entire alumni population. The Alumni Board provides also the voice of the alumni population, encouraging all graduates to be vital members of the Alumni Association.

Alumni Board members promote and support the goals and core values of Saint Xavier University, fostering a spirit of loyalty and fellowship among alumni. They are leaders in events, activities and programs that serve both the alumni interests and the mission of the University. The Alumni Board is an invaluable resource for the entire Saint Xavier community.
As students, they represented many essential elements at SXU. Now, as Alumni Board members, they remain dedicated to ensuring that the diversity of our student and alumni populations is represented by the Alumni Board itself.

Some of the recent events sponsored by the SXU Alumni Board and the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations include the annual Alumni and Friends Holiday Tea, Golden Graduate Luncheon, Whirley Ball event, Alumni and Friend Wine Tastings, Service Day projects, Chicago Cubs and White Sox bus trips, Broadway in Chicago outings, and annual SXU Homecoming weekend activities.

Photo courtesy of Pat Thomas, Beverly Review:

(Front Row) Pamela Cruz ’01, alumni board president; Kathy Rogers’95, ’97, secretary; Candace Ramirez ’02, ’04, ’05, vice president
(Middle Row) Vonna Moss ’93, ’07; Danielle Dumont ’10, student representative; Karen Wood ’76; Jamie Manahan, director of alumni and parent relations; Lubna Akkawi ’05, ’09; Nenette Alonzo ’05, ’06; Iris Villanueva ’06; Jeanne Moran ’72
(Back Row) Letha Tobias ’92; Tom Moran, Jr. ’06; John McErlean ’05; Steven J. Murphy Ed.D., vice president for university advancement, Jose Garcia ’91; Sean Hickey ’93; Marsha Eaglin ’87; Tim O’Neill ’04; Jon-Pierre Bradley ’06, Assistant Director of Alumni & Parent Relations
(not pictured) – Jim Cuci ’77, Gloria Higgins Dillon ’55, Ave Green ’51, Ahsan Karim ’94, Patricia Morris ’83, Gerald Napleton ’04, Dana Pyle ’06, Luke Schillo ’05, ’07)

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SXU’s Theology South lecture series continues

Professor to speak on Jungian Perspectives in Hildegard

Chicago (March 11, 2009) Avis Clendenen, PhD. will discuss the influence of medieval theologian Hildegard on the work of psychiatrist Carl Jung as part of Saint Xavier University’s Theology South lecture series at 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 2, in SXU’s Butler Reception Room, 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago, IL.

In her lecture, “Hildegard in Jung: Encountering a Wise Old Woman & a Wise Old Man,” Clendenen will discuss the correlation between Hildegard and Jung. A question and answer session will follow.

Clendenen is chair of the Religious Studies Department at SXU and is the author of Experiencing Hildegard: Jungian Perspectives and coauthor (with Troy W. Martin) of Forgiveness: Finding Freedom through Reconciliation.

The program is from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 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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SXU’s School of Education announces scholarship winners

Chicago-Saint Xavier University’s School of Education recently announced the winners of the Binder, Davis, Gallagher, Leake and Malin Scholarships.

Kathleen Griffin, of Chicago, received the Dr. Dorothy Binder Endowed Graduate Scholarship. Griffin is a graduate student in the multicategorical special education program. The Scholarship Committee recognizes Griffin’s commitment to excellence, hospitality, compassion and service to others.

Leah Wessman, of Evergreen Park, received the Dorothy Ritter Davis Scholarship. Wessman is a graduate student in the reading program and is recognized for being an “outstanding student and a brilliant contributor to the classroom who demonstrates outstanding service performed with integrity and generosity.”

Denise Corral, of Oak Forest, received the Elaine Gallagher Scholarship. Corral is a graduate student in the elementary education program. The Scholarship Committee recognizes Corral’s enthusiasm for teaching Science, love of learning and demonstration of service

Nikki Lacy, of Addison, received the Dr. Lloyd Leake Scholarship. Lacy is an undergraduate in the elementary education program. Lacy’s recommender described her as a focused person whose strength and commitment are obvious as a student, academic tutor and mentor for teenage girls.

Brian Condon, of Oak Lawn, received the Julius and Catherine Heery Malin Scholarship. Condon is a graduate student in the elementary education program. Condon’s recommender described his “extraordinary academic excellence, a sense of responsibility and compassion and service to others.”

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

Photo:SOE: (from left) Mary Coffey, Assistant to the Dean; Leah Wessman, winner of the Davis Scholarship; Beverly Gulley, Ph.D., dean of the School of Education; and Brian Condon, winner of the Malin Scholarship.

Media Advisory: Saint Xavier University raises the Dead

Chicago (March 10, 2009) If you’re looking for an interesting visual piece, Deadheads and classical music fans unite tonight at Saint Xavier University.

SXU will host a performance of Dead Symphony no. 6, an orchestral tribute to the music of iconic San Francisco rock band, The Grateful Dead. The performance will be at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10, in the Ensemble Performance Space at SXU’s Chicago Campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

The performance will be just the second time this groundbreaking composition will have been performed in the United States. Lee Johnson, who wrote the piece, will personally conduct the performance with SXU’s University Symphonic Orchestra.

Marian Catholic High School student Pat O’Hara and several musicians from VanderCook College of Music will perform alongside SXU’s musicians.

If you would like cover this event, please contact Joe Moore at (773) 298-3937 or (773) 203-6671.


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SXU students spend Spring Break volunteering in Chicago

Students assisted at the Brother David Darst Center

Chicago (March 9, 2009) Seven Saint Xavier University students spent their Spring Break volunteering with the Brother David Darst Center for Justice and Peace, Spirituality and Education in Chicago.

The Darst Center educates people about social justice issues by providing them with real-world experiences aiding marginalized populations.

The students visited the St. Rose Center on March 4, which provides day training services to developmentally disabled adults. The students ate lunch with the St. Rose members and helped them with their classroom exercises.

The students assisted at a food bank, a homeless shelter and local schools. The goals of the Spring Break service trips are threefold: to provide service to those in need, to provide an educational experience for participating students, and to create a fun, enjoyable week creating lifelong memories.

For more information about Saint Xavier’s Campus Ministry, please call (773) 298-3900 or visit: http://www.sxu.edu/Administrative/Campus_Ministry/default.asp.

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

SXU unveils plaque honoring new hall’s environmentally friendly design

O’Brien Hall second SXU building to receive LEED Gold designation

Chicago (March 9, 2009) Saint Xavier University unveiled a plaque Thursday from the U.S. Green Building Council signifying Mother Agatha O’Brien Hall as the University’s second building to achieve the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Gold designation for green building practices.

Saint Xavier became the first Illinois University to receive a LEED Gold designation when the USGBC recognized Arthur Rubloff Hall in 2007.

“The LEED Gold Designation for O’Brien Hall signifies yet another aspect of Saint Xavier University’s pursuit of climate neutrality and construction excellence,” said SXU Assistant Vice President for Facilities Management Paul Matthews. “This award is further recognition of our commitment to protecting the environment and providing an atmosphere for our students that promotes sustainable practices.”

Dedicated in October 2008, the energy efficient 36,664 square-foot residence hall is the sixth co-ed residence hall on the Chicago campus. It houses 108 students and was built to the same high environmental standards as Rubloff Hall.

To receive the prestigious LEED Gold designation, the University incorporated an exceptional number of “green” strategies to protect the Earth’s natural resources into the building’s construction.

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.
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.

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.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION

Joe Moore
Dir. of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or jmoore@sxu.edu

SXU achieves costs savings through sustainable construction

Read the AASHE article by SXU's Office of Sustainability intern David Hasty on Saint Xavier's cost savings due to green construction.

Learn more about Saint Xavier's green activities at http://greencampus.sxu.edu/.

Saint Xavier University's Matt Costello quoted in Daily Gazette on Watchmen

Matt Costello, Ph.D., Saint Xavier University political science professor and comic book expert, was quoted in a story in the Schenectady Daily Gazette about the movie adaptation of the graphic novel, Watchmen.

Among comics fans, Watchmen is possibly the most anticipated movie comic book adaptation of all time. Saint Xavier University Political Science Professor Matthew Costello, Ph.D., is available for expert comment on the classic graphic novel by Alan Moore.

Enjoy brief excerpt from a larger interview with Costello on the subject of comic books, graphic novels and his soon-to-be-released book, "Secret Identity Crisis: Comic Books and The Unmasking of Cold War America."

If you would like to reach Costello for an interview, please call 773-298-3937 or jmoore@sxu.edu.

Costello was recently interviewed by an Australian documentary crew traveling America for a documentary on comics. To learn more about the documentary, visit http://www.comic-doc.com/

Learn more about Costello's book on Continuum Press here.

Saint Xavier University's Graham Peck featured in Chicago Tribune for Lincoln/Douglas Debate Discovery

Saint Xavier University history Professor Graham Peck’s discovery of Lincoln/Douglas debate records was featured in Friday’s Chicago Tribune. Read the story here.

Hannemann Named Player of the Year

Five Named All-CCAC

Joliet, Ill. (March 6, 2009) Saint Xavier University junior forward Erin Hannemann (Homer Glen, Ill./Providence Catholic) was named the 2009 Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference (CCAC) Player of the Year and earned first team All-CCAC recognition as five SXU women’s basketball players received spots on the 2009 All-CCAC squad when the conference office released the honors Thursday. Junior guard Kathlyn McClain (Oak Forest, Ill./Converse College/Marian Catholic) and sophomore point guard Alex Barone (Joliet, Ill./Marian Catholic) also secured places on the All-CCAC First Team, while senior forward Abiola Amure (Chicago, Ill./St. Scholastica) and sophomore guard Shalonda Young (Chicago, Ill./Crane Tech) nabbed spots on the All-CCAC Second Team. In addition, Cougar head coach Bob Hallberg was named the 2009 CCAC Coach of the Year.

Hannemann has been an unstoppable force for Saint Xavier all season averaging team-bests of 20.4 points and 9.0 rebounds per game and shooting an impressive 63 percent (215-for-342) from the field on the year. She has been named the CCAC Player of the Week eight of the 16 times it has been awarded during the 2008-09 season. McClain has been tough as well posting 16.1 points and 3.2 steals over the team’s 27 games. Barone has been stellar as SXU’s primary ball-handler and averages a team-high 4.9 assists in addition to her 8.5 points a game. Amure has been a solid contributor all season long posting averages of 7.6 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.8 steals. Young has also been a huge all-around asset for the Cougars averaging 8.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.7 steals per game.

Saint Xavier (23-4 overall/9-1 CCAC) earned a No.1 seed and first round bye for this week's CCAC Tournament. The Cougars face off against No. 5 seed Robert Morris College (11-18 overall/2-8 CCAC) tonight at 7 p.m. at the Shannon Center in Chicago to determine which team will advance to Saturday’s conference tournament championship game.

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Saint Xavier alumni and friends watch Cubs and Sox slug it out in Mesa, Ariz.

5th annual Saint Xavier University Alumni and Friends Weekend

More than 85 Saint Xavier University friends and alumni got a preseason glimpse of Chicago baseball when they watched the Chicago White Sox and Chicago Cubs slug it out Saturday, Feb. 28, 2009 at Hohokam Stadium in Mesa, Arizona.

The 5th annual SXU Alumni and Friends Weekend was filled with fun and fellowship as Cubs and Sox fans enjoyed VIP tickets, and entry into the exclusive SXU skybox with great food and beverages throughout the game.

The Cubs beat the White Sox 13-0.

"The SXU Alumni and Friends Weekend in Meza, Arizona, has turned into one of our most exciting annual events," said SXU Vice President for University Advancement Steven J. Murphy, Ed.D. "No matter which team people pulled for, everyone enjoyed themselves immensely. We deeply appreciate the Alumni and friend support shown this weekend."

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

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Southwest Observer features WTTW documentary on South Side Irish

Read a Southwest Observer article on WTTW’s documentary on Chicago’s Irish south side, featuring SXU’s own Vice President for University Mission and Heritage Sister Susan Sanders, R.S.M., Ph.D.

Saint Xavier University to host annual job fair

Students, community invited to attend

Chicago (March 4, 2009) Saint Xavier University invites students and surrounding community members to network with potential employers and recruiters at SXU’s annual job fair from noon to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31st, in the University’s Shannon Center, 3700 W. 103rd St. Chicago.

The SXU job 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. Employers from several industries will be present, recruiting for open positions within their organizations.

Employers scheduled to attend the job fair include: the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Chicago Heights School District 170, the City of Peoria, Holy Cross Hospital, MacNeal Hospital, Moraine Valley Community College, Northwestern Mutual-The McTigue Finance Group, Palos Community Hospital, Park Forest Academy, Prairie-Hills Elementary School District 144, Resurrection Health Care, South Holland School District 150, St. James Hospital and Health Centers, TCF Bank, the U.S. Secret Service and Wells Fargo Financial.

“Although the SXU Job Fair is planned for SXU students and alumni, we want to extend an invitation to our community members who may be looking for work,” said Mary Fitzpatrick, assistant director of career services. “This is an excellent opportunity to see many recruiters at once. “

Job seekers should bring copies of their résumés and dress professionally.

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Experts discuss Gaza Conflict at SXU

Video of panel discussion available



Chicago (March 3, 2009) Saint Xavier University recently hosted a panel discussion about the Gaza Strip conflict between Israel and Palestine to heighten awareness of the area’s history and its current humanitarian concerns.

Christian Molidor, R.S.M., discussed the experience of living in the West Bank and Jerusalem. SXU Professor Peter N. Kirstein, Ph.D., advocated reassessment of the American-Israel bilateral relationship. Shaun Harkin, an organizer with the Immigrants' Rights Coalition and the Chicago Antiwar Coalition, writer, International Socialist Review, addressed connections between the experience of the Palestinians and local marginalized communities.

The discussion was sponsored by the SXU Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice and the Middle Eastern Studies program. These departments consider involvement in world issues and responsiveness to humanitarian crises as basic tenets of service, mercy, diversity and justice that constitute a part of the University’s core values. Saint Xavier’s Diversity Action and Reflection Team also supported this event.

For more information about Saint Xavier’s Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice, please visit http://www.sxu.edu/Academic/Liberal/Sociology/default.asp.

For more information about Saint Xavier’s Middle Eastern Studies program, please visit http://www.sxu.edu/Academic/Liberal/Middle_Eastern_Studies/default.asp.

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View feature story on Saint Xavier University coaching legend Bob Hallberg

Click here for the SouthtownStar's feature story on college basketball coaching legend Bob Hallberg, winner of more than 700 games.

Saint Xavier University's Erin Hannemann chosen NAIA Player of the Week

St. Xavier University women's basketball player Erin Hannemann, who was chosen NAIA Player of the Week for the period ending Feb. 3. Read the whole story here.

Doing a piece on Watchmen?

Among comics fans, Watchmen is possibly the most anticipated movie comic book adaptation of all time. Saint Xavier University Political Science Professor Matthew Costello, Ph.D., is available for expert comment on the classic graphic novel by Alan Moore.

CNTRL+Click here for a brief excerpt from a larger interview with Costello on the subject of comic books, graphic novels and his soon-to-be-released book, "Secret Identity Crisis: Comic Books and The Unmasking of Cold War America."

If you would like to reach Costello for an interview, please call 773-298-3937 or jmoore@sxu.edu.

Costello was recently interviewed by an Australian documentary crew traveling America for a documentary on comics. To learn more about the documentary, visit http://www.comic-doc.com/.

Learn more about Costello's book on Continuum Press here.