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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