Former United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan speaks at Saint Xavier University Sept. 17, 2009

Chicago (April 30, 2009) Tickets go on sale soon to see Former United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan as the fourth speaker in the highly successful SXU Voices & Visions Speaker Series at Saint Xavier University in Chicago. Annan will speak at 7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 17.

Annan will present “The Five Rules of International Diplomacy,” a call for multilateralism and a renewed faith in a global approach to tackling the world’s problems.

Prior to his lecture, Annan will conduct a special classroom discussion with Saint Xavier students.
“We are very pleased that Former Secretary General Annan continues our tradition of bringing the best of international figures to the Chicago area,” said Robert Tenczar, vice president for University Relations. “Mr. Annan is an ideal interpreter for our times and will undoubtedly provide a uniquely informed perspective as America works with other countries to meet the world’s challenges.”



Annan served as United Nations Secretary-General from 1997 to 2006. During his tenure, he made his mark as an advocate for human rights, the rule of law and the revitalization of the United Nations. He has been a key figure in the fight against HIV/AIDS and a leader of the multilateral response to the global terrorist threat.



When elected to the Secretary-Generalship in 1997, Annan became the first Secretary-General to come directly from the United Nations staff, and the first from a black African nation to hold the position.



As Secretary-General, Annan worked to bolster the United Nation’s relationship with businesses and civil society groups, sponsoring a Global Compact initiative to promote corporate social responsibility. He was instrumental in laying out the Millennium Development Goals, a strategy to meet the needs of the world’s poorest by 2015. In 2005, Annan succeeded in persuading the United Nations to establish the Peacebuilding Commission and the Human Rights Council, new intergovernmental bodies dedicated to global peace and welfare. Annan was also a chief proponent of the creation of the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria. On Dec. 10, 2001, Annan and the United Nations received the Nobel Peace Prize.



Since leaving the United Nations, Annan has continued to press for better policies to meet the needs of the poorest and most vulnerable, particularly in Africa. He has also continued to use his experience to mediate and resolve conflict. In Kenya in early 2008, Annan led the AU Panel of Eminent African Personalities to help find a peaceful resolution to the post-election violence. The event is sponsored by the Office of University Relations and in part by 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 Annan’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 (773) 203-6671 (cell).



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SXU students receive 2009 Outstanding Honors Senior Project Awards

Lisa James of Blue Island and Jacqueline McGill of Oak Lawn honored for their work

Chicago (April 29, 2009) Two Saint Xavier University students received 2009 Outstanding Honors Senior Project Awards at Saint Xavier’s Seventh Annual Honors Senior Project Conference.

Lisa James won the Outstanding Honors Senior Research Project Award for her in-depth analysis of two competing theories of language acquisition in “The Logical and the Dialogical, Resolving the Cognitive/Collaborative Feud in Second Language Acquisition.”

James, a Spanish major/communication minor from Blue Island, has been accepted into the graduate program in Hispanic Studies at the University of Illinois-Chicago, and is the recipient of a competitive Graduate Teaching Assistantship in that program.

Jacqueline McGill won the Outstanding Honors Senior Creative Project Award for “Identity Exploration Through Archetypal Imagery: A Visual Journey.”

McGill, an art/secondary education major from Oak Lawn, was inspired by a course she took in Art Therapy at the Art Institute of Chicago, and by her interest in the concept of universal archetypes formulated by Carl Jung. She explored the artifacts of her own past selves, gathered and integrated materials, images, and designs that expressed them, and produced a collection of beautiful cards and an actual card catalog in which to house them.

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SXU holds Saxophone Quartet recital

3 p.m. on Sunday, May 3

Chicago (Apr 29, 2009) The Saint Xavier University Saxophone Quartet will perform a recital at 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 3 in the Butler Reception Room on the Chicago campus 3700 W. 103rd St. Chicago.

The Quartet will be joined by two music department alumni, and will present a music recital of classical, jazz and Latin music.

The even is open to the public and a Goodwill donation is requested for admission. For more information please contact Lara Regan at 773-298-3423 or at regan@sxu.edu.

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Saint Xavier University Library hosts 60 St. Cajetan students

Eighth-graders conduct research projects

Chicago (April 29, 2009) Sixty eighth-grade students from St. Cajetan School in Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood visited Saint Xavier University’s Bryne Memorial Library to conduct research on Wednesday, April 29, 2009.

Saint Xavier Library Director Mark Vargas extended the invitation to the students’ English teacher, Ms. Jean Swiecicki, who had been in search of a library for the students to conduct introductory research techniques. Tasks included created a question about a topic, planning a strategy of which sources to use, gathering and organizing information, and citing sources.

“I extended an invitation to Ms. Swiecicki and her students as part of our Mercy mission, and she was delighted we could help,” Vargas said, referring to the Sisters of Mercy from Dublin, Ireland who founded Saint Xavier in 1846.

Along with Vargas, the Saint Xavier librarians who assisted the students with their research included David Kohut, James Kusik, Cheryl Howe, Anne Buchannan and Anita Morgan.

Photo 1 from Left to Right: SXU Library Director Mark Vargas, and St. Cajetan 8th Graders Emily Oliver and Maggie Graney-Dolan.

Photo 2: St. Cajetan Eighth Graders conduct research in the Bishop Quarter Room of the Saint Xavier Byrne Memorial Library. From left to right: Caitlin Cronin, Shannon Cosgrove and Colleen Cusack.

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


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Saint Xavier University joins Independent 529 Plan

Tuition prepayment plan enables parents to lock in tuition rates now for future use

(April 29, 2009) CHICAGO, Ill. – Saint Xavier University has become the latest institution to join Independent 529 Plan, allowing parents to lock in tuition rates for their children’s future use.

Independent 529 Plan was launched in 2003 in a cooperative effort by a national group of private colleges and universities to help families manage the rising cost of higher education. Under the program, individuals can purchase tuition certificates for future redemption at any of the participating private colleges and universities, now including Saint Xavier.

“We are pleased to join many universities and colleges across the country in helping students to secure access and affordability in their pursuit of higher education,” said Saint Xavier University President Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D.

“This plan is an innovative way for parents to provide for their children’s future education at less than today’s cost,” said Nancy Farmer, president and chief executive officer of Independent 529 Plan.

“In return for parents prepaying college costs, member colleges and universities accept the investment risk and protect parents from future tuition increases,” Farmer said. “Tuition purchased today is guaranteed to satisfy costs at the time the child enrolls. A parent who purchases a half year of tuition today will receive a half year of tuition when the child later redeems the tuition certificate at a member college. This is true regardless of how much tuition rises or what happens in the investment markets,” she said. “In fact, families will pay slightly less than current tuition because each of our participating schools discounts the tuition certificates by at least one-half of one percent per year.”

Saint Xavier University brings to 12 the number of Illinois colleges and universities that are members of Independent 529 Plan. The others are Augustana College, Bradley University, Elmhurst College, Illinois Institute of Technology, Illinois Wesleyan University, Knox College, Lake Forest College, Monmouth College, North Central College, Olivet Nazarene University, and the University of Chicago.

Nationally, a few of the more than 270 institutions participating in Independent 529 Plan include Stanford University, Princeton University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Johns Hopkins University, the University of Notre Dame, Washington University in St. Louis, Carnegie-Mellon University, and Wake Forest University.

About Saint Xavier University

Founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1846, Saint Xavier University was the first Mercy college in the United States and is Chicago’s oldest Catholic university. Serving approximately 5,600 students at its campuses in Chicago, Orland Park and its Loop location, the University offers 35 undergraduate majors; more than 40 graduate program options in arts and sciences, business, education and nursing; and a variety of program options in continuing and professional studies. Recognizing Saint Xavier’s excellence in education, U.S. News and World Report has ranked SXU consistently among the Best Colleges in the Midwest. To learn more about Saint Xavier, visit www.sxu.edu.

About Independent 529 Plan

Independent 529 Plan is run by the nonprofit Tuition Plan Consortium and administered by TIAA-CREF Tuition Financing Inc. Funds saved can be used at any of the participating colleges and universities nationwide. Benefits are free of federal income tax, and the plan charges no enrollment or maintenance fees. For more information about Independent 529, call (toll free) 888-718-7878 or visit www.independent529plan.org.

###

Contact:

Nancy Farmer
President
Independent 529 Plan
877-874-0740
nancyf@i529.org

Joe Moore
Director of Media Relations
Saint Xavier University
773-298-3937
jmoore@sxu.edu

SXU Campus Bookstore Sale April 27-May 9

The Saint Xavier University Campus Bookstore will hold a store-wide sale April 27 to May 9. The sale offers 20 percent off most items in the store, as well as clearance items. Shop early for the best selection.

Saint Xavier holds SSP Spring Awards Program

3 p.m., April 29, 2009 in 4th Floor Board Room

Chicago (April 27, 2009) Saint Xavier University will hold its 2008-09 Student Success program Awards Program at 3 p.m., Wednesday, April 29 in the 4th Floor Boardroom of the Warde Academic Center.

The Student Success Program (SSP) is a federally funded grant program that specializes in retention and graduation of students who are low income, first generation, or individuals with disabilities.

The SXU Annual Spring Awards program focuses the academic achievements of its students, celebrating academic achievers and graduates, peer mentors, and the Tyesa Bowens Memorial Scholarship winners.

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Chicago Tribune features front page story about Saint Xavier's GreenBike Share Program

Read the Sunday, April 27, Chicago Tribune front page article featuring Saint Xavier University’s GreenBike Share Program.

Two SXU School of Nursing students receive Schweitzer Fellowships

Georgina Lopez and Elizabeth Ralyea receive community health project grants

(From left) Georgina Lopez and Elizabeth Ralyea.

Chicago (April 24, 2009) Two Saint Xavier University School of Nursing graduate students recently were awarded Schweitzer Fellowships to conduct health care programs for underserved communities.

Named in honor of Nobel Peace Laureate Dr. Albert Schweitzer, the Chicago Area Schweitzer Fellows Program encourages students in health professions and related fields to “make their lives their argument” by serving the most vulnerable members of society.

Schweitzer Fellows commit to a service project of at least 200 hours in a community-based agency, as well as monthly meetings and public outreach activities.

Georgina Lopez, of Monee, will focus on nutritional risk assessment and education for kindergarten through fifth grade children in a school that serves the Latino community.

Elizabeth Ralvea, of Chicago, plans to work with HIV-positive individuals, particularly African immigrants. She will educate clients on anti-retroviral medications and assist them with accessing services in the Chicago area.

Lopez and Ralyea are the third and fourth Saint Xavier students to receive Schweitzer Fellowships during the past three years.


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Campus Bookstore sale

Sale begins April 27

The Campus Bookstore will hold a storewide sale April 27 to May 9. The sale offers 20 percent off most items in the store, as well as clearance items. Shop early for the best selection.

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CBS Chicago reportson Saint Xavier GreenBike Share Program

See the CBS Chicago story about Saint Xavier University's GreenBike Share Program unveiled on Earth Day 2009.

"The campus already has two green residence halls, and now a green bike rental program so that students, staff and faculty can reduce their carbon footprint by riding instead of driving."

--CBS Reporter Mai Martinez

SXU GreenBike Share Program featured on ABC Chicago

Watch the ABC Chicago story on Saint Xavier University’s GreenBike Program.

“Officials are looking to other cities like Paris to see how their programs are working out. In the meantime, they can also look to Saint Xavier which is breaking ground for being one of the first U.S. campuses to implement bike sharing.” --ABC Reporter Karen Jordan

Gloria Jacobson, R.N., Ph.D. to be Dean of SXU School of Nursing

Chicago (April 23, 2009) Saint Xavier University announced today the appointment of Gloria Jacobson, R.N., Ph.D. to be dean of the Saint Xavier University School of Nursing. She will assume the post Aug. 1, 2009.

Jacobson replaces former Dean Anne Bavier, who left in 2007 to join the University of Connecticut. Kay Thurn, Psy.D., associate dean for Graduate Nursing Programs, currently serves as interim dean.

“Gloria Jacobson brings strong leadership and nursing education experience,” said SXU Provost Angela Durante, Ph.D. “Her direction and vision will advance this excellent program in its service to our students, its contribution to the profession and healthcare in Chicago and the region.”

Jacobson comes to Saint Xavier from Loyola University in Chicago, where she served as associate dean for academic affairs at the Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing. Her responsibilities included immediate oversight for curriculum, management, leadership, evaluation and fiscal matters for undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programs serving approximately 1,000 students.

“I am thrilled to join the Saint Xavier University School of Nursing,” Jacobson said. “It is a chance to build upon the many accomplishments of its excellent faculty and staff and to examine new ways to enhance the school’s visibility.”

Jacobson’s previous responsibilities at Loyola have included university program director for the VA Nursing Academy, associate professor in the Marcella Neihoff School of Nursing, project director for the Berwyn Cicero Registered Nurse initiative, chair of Acute, Chronic, and Long-Term Nursing, and chair of Community Mental Health and Administrative Nursing.

Previously, she served at the Northern Illinois University School of Nursing as a lecturer, instructor, assistant professor and coordinator of Psychiatric/Mental Health, as a clinical instructor and practitioner teacher in Psychiatric Nursing at Rush University, and as a team leader/staff teacher for the Visiting Nurse Association of Chicago.


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SXU’s award-winning “God Matters” radio program returns

New episodes begin 9:30 a.m., Sunday, April 26 on WXAV 88.3 FM

Chicago (April 22, 2009) “God Matters,” Saint Xavier University’s award-winning public affairs program, returns with all-new episodes at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 26 on WXAV 88.3 FM. You can also listen to WXAV online at http://www.wxav.com/.

“God Matters” examines the complexities of everyday life, and how faith and values can affect our decisions. The program took second place in the 2003 Silver Dome Awards for Best Public Affairs Programming, beating out WGN.

Saint Xavier Vice President for University Mission and Heritage Sister Susan Sanders, R.S.M, Ph.D, and Assistant Director of Campus Life: Student Media Peter Kreten host the program.

Upcoming episodes of God Matters include:

· Prof. Tatiana Tatum discussing Earth’s water supply.
· Prof. Christopher Appelt discussing his study of Chicago’s monk parakeets.
· Former Chicago Tonight host John Callaway discussing the State of the Union.
· Former CBS news anchor, A&E documentary host Bill Kurtis on America’s Diet.
· Prof. Graham Peck's found transcript of an Abraham Lincoln-Stephen Douglas debate.
· Prof. Laurence Musgrove on the Power of Poetry.
· Prof. Joyce Hunter on Air Rage.
· Prof. Michael O’Keeffe on The Sopranos and pop culture.

To learn more about God Matters, contact Pete Kreten at (773) 298-3375.

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

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SXU Jazz Ensemble to perform Mingus, Mancini, others at Spring Concert

Ensemble to perform at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, May 1

Chicago (April 22, 2009) Saint Xavier University’s Jazz Ensemble will perform its Spring Concert at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, May 1 in McGuire Hall in the Warde Academic Center, 3700 W. 103rd St.

The ensemble will perform the music of Harold Arlen, Ray Brown, Bill Evans, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Jerome Kern, Henry Mancini, Buddy Miles, Charles Mingus, Michael Philip Mossman and others.

Admission is $6 for the general public and free for SXU students, faculty and staff. For more information, please contact Annette Adamus at (773) 298-3421 or adamus@sxu.edu

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Saint Xavier University unveils first university GreenBike Share Program of its kind on Earth Day

Students borrow bikes from computer kiosks to reduce carbon footprint

Chicago (April 20, 2009) Saint Xavier University unveils the first bike share program of its kind on an American university campus on Earth Day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 22, on the Smith-Morris quad at the Chicago Campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

The GreenBike program allows students, staff and faculty to borrow bicycles made by the French company Veloway 24 hours a day, seven days a week from 14 computerized docking stations across Saint Xavier’s Chicago campus. The program is part of Saint Xavier’s ongoing effort to reduce its carbon footprint and achieve carbon neutrality.

Saint Xavier is the first university in the nation to use bicycles provided by the French company Veloway, Europe’s premier bike share distributor. The shaft-drive, three speed bikes are maintained by Saint Xavier’s student-staffed Office of Sustainability.

GreenBikes are free to students, faculty and staff for the rest of the 2009 Spring and Summer semesters. Starting in the 2009 Fall semester, bicycles are free for the first 15 minutes and 60 cents for each additional 15 minutes.

For more information about the GreenBike Share Program, please visit www.sxu.edu/greenbike.
News organizations interested in covering the GreenBike Share Program, should contact Joe Moore at (773)298-3937 or jmoore@sxu.edu; or Rick Ducat at ducat@sxu.edu at (773) 298-3325.

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SXU School of Nursing featured on WBEZ Chicago Public Radio

Listen to WBEZ Chicago Public Radio’s “8:48” segment on Saint Xavier University School of Nursing students who conducted “timeline interviews” with residents of Smith Village, an assisted living facility in southwest Chicago.

SXU professor quoted in new book; Thomas Dodson discusses the culture in Latin America

Thomas Dodson, Ph.D., associate professor in the Saint Xavier University graduate counseling program, was cited in the newly published The International Handbook of Counseling. Dodson’s remarks on the influence of culture in the context of counseling people who live in Latin America were quoted in the chapter “Counseling in and outside of the United States.”

SXU’s Shannon Center completes Biggest Loser Fitness Challenge

More than 100 participants lost over 400 pounds Chicago

(April 16, 2009) Saint Xavier University’s Shannon Center recently completed its 10-week Biggest Loser Fitness Challenge with more than 100 participants losing over 400 pounds.

Rob Parisella, of Burbank, won first place after dropping 46 pounds. Saint Xavier student Haley Neale, of Fort Wayne, Ind., took second place by losing 36 pounds. Nick O’Conner, of Chicago, finished third by losing 32 pounds. All three winners received Visa gift cards as prizes.

“We are so proud of all of our participants and hope that everyone sticks with their diet and exercise plans,” said Shannon Center Asst. Facilities Manager Kristy Allen.

The Biggest Loser event is a 10-week fitness challenge designed to help participants lose weight, make healthy lifestyle changes, maintain weight loss and have fun. The program offered informational packets, nutrition tips, lunch-hour walking programs and other health and fitness resources.

For more information about Saint Xavier’s Shannon Center, please click here.

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SXU holds University Awards Ceremony

Recognizes scholarship and service achievements

(from left) Student Mark Piper, Professor Jason Aleksander, Ph.D., Professor Ann Filipski and President Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D at Saint Xavier University’s Annual University Awards Ceremony.

Chicago (April 16, 2009) Saint Xavier University held its annual University Awards Ceremony on April 15 to recognize student achievements in scholarship and service.

The following students received awards:

• Dean’s Fellowship Award: Amy Poull, Oak Forest
• Sister Mary Josetta Butler Award: Amanda Holmes, Oak Lawn
• Hassan (Husni) and Safia Haddad Peace Award: Amanda Holmes, Oak Lawn
• College of Arts and Sciences Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award: Lisa James, Blue Island
• The Wall Street Journal Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award: Todd Gutowksi, Chicago
• The J.K. Hwang Outstanding Graduate Student Award: Jared Watts, Frankfort
• Sister Mary Dominic Merwick Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award: Holly Kennedy, Henry
• Sister Irenaeus Chekouras Outstanding Graduate Student Award: Joseph Rizzo, Orland Park
• School of Nursing Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award: Allison Phillips, Chicago
• School of Nursing Outstanding Graduate Student Award: Theresa Pretto, Tinley Park
• Adult Learner Award: Brian Radakovitz, Orland Park
• Excellence in Writing Award – Undergraduate: Michael Noonan, Lansing and Ana Romero, Chicago
• Excellence in Writing Award – Graduate: Kathleen Furlong, Mokena and Brian Johnson, Frankfort
• Student Laureate of the Lincoln Academy of Illinois: Alyson Kelley, Aurora
• Saint Catherine Award: Mark Piper, Stoughton, Wis.

Saint Xavier philosophy professor Jason Aleksander, Ph.D., received the Excellence in Teaching Award.

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Saint Xavier identity theft study featured in new book

Kresse, Watland and Lucki cited for their research

A Saint Xavier University study of identity theft incidents in the city of Chicago is featured in the new book "Identity Theft Handbook: Detection, Prevention, and Security."

Written by Martin Biegelman, the Director of Financial Integrity for Microsoft Corporation, "Identity Theft Handbook" is published by Wiley.

With permission from its authors, SXU Graham School of Management professors Kathleen Watland and William Kresse, and Graham School adjunct professor and Chicago Police Detective John Lucki, Biegelman included in his chapter "Identity Theft Research" extensive portions of the study "Identity Theft: Findings and Public Policy Recommendations from the Saint Xavier University Study of Identity Theft Incidents Reported to the Chicago Police Department."

The Saint Xavier study was based on data collected from more than 28,000 actual identity theft incidents reported to the Chicago Police Department over a seven-year period. Biegelman notes, “Gaining this kind of unprecedented access to case files of actual identity theft incidents is remarkable, and the CPD is to be applauded for granting SXU the access rights.” Biegelman also comments that the “Saint Xavier University study of identity theft incidents shows how some of the most common recommendations to detect and prevent identity theft are not always followed.”

Funded by the Institute for Fraud Prevention, the Saint Xavier University Study of Identity Theft Incidents is the most extensive academic study of actual cases of identity theft conducted to date.

The nonprofit Institute for Fraud Prevention was founded by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and is dedicated to multidisciplinary research, education and prevention of fraud and corruption. The Saint Xavier study was one of the first studies funded by the Institute for Fraud Prevention. The entire Saint Xavier study is available at the Institute’s website: www.theifp.org.

Learn more about Saint Xavier University's MBA Financial Fraud Examination and Management program.

SXU School of Nursing conducts "Reminiscing Project"

On April 6 and 8, 2009, Saint Xavier School of Nursing students conducted "timeline interviews" with residents of Smith Village, an assisted living facility in Southwest Chicago. The “Reminiscing Project” covered various periods of residents' lives, focusing in particular on how they related to specific historical events.

Timeline interviews allow the elderly an opportunity to "talk out" and contextualize their lives, and the students in turn can interact with them as people instead of patients. The interviews remain in a person’s medical file so that future caregivers can know them better.

Founded in 1935, the Saint Xavier University School of Nursing offered the first baccalaureate nursing program to receive accreditation in the State of Illinois. In 2007, the National League for Nursing chose the Saint Xavier University School of Nursing as a Center of Excellence for “creating an environment that enhances student learning and professional development.”

Grounded in the Mercy tradition and experience in nursing education, the school links innovation and concern for community to provide baccalaureate degrees in nursing (BSN) to pre-licensure, licensed practical nurse and registered nurse students. The undergraduate nursing curriculum is founded on a strong liberal arts and sciences orientation, with a focus on caring and developing leadership and management abilities. It graduates the highest percentage of African-American and Hispanic nurses of any school of nursing in Illinois.

The graduate program was one of the first in the nation to offer the Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) track. Other options in the graduate program include the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track, an MSN-MBA option, post-master’s certificates in FNP and Nurse Educator, and a unique opportunity to transition from the MSN to Rush University’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program.

Learn more about the SXU School of Nursing.

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Chicago Public Radio's 8:48 features Saint Xavier School of Nursing "Reminiscing Project"

The WBEZ 91.5 FM radio program “8:48” is expected to run a story Wednesday, April 15 at 9 a.m. and again at 8 p.m. about the Saint Xavier School of Nursing’s “Reminiscing Project.”

Student nurses visited the assisted living facility Smith Village last week to conduct “timeline interviews” in which residents were asked to discuss various periods of their lives, particularly times which corresponded to major historical events such as World War II, Sputnik and Vietnam.

SXU School of Nursing Professors Peggy Gallagher and Suzanne Kimble designed and coordinated the interview project.

Saint Xavier wins two ICPA awards

Chicago (April 14, 2009) The Xavierite, Saint Xavier University’s student newspaper, received two awards at the 2009 Illinois College Press Association Awards Banquet in Chicago.

The Xavierite won 1st place for Best Editorial in the Non-Dailies over 4,000 category. The editorial was written by the staff and pertained to security measures in the University’s residence halls.

The newspaper also received an Honorable Mention for In-Depth Reporting in the Non-Dailies over 4,000 category. The article, written by Kendall Steinle and Chris Lonergan, pertained to Saint Xavier’s campus closing in 2008 because of threats made against the University.

“The entire staff should be very proud of their accomplishments,” said Peter Kreten, assistant director of campus life: student media. “The Xavierite’s goal is to continue to grow and develop as the eyes and ears of Saint Xavier University.”

Photo from Left to Right: Kelley Lindsey, Kevin Harnedy, Gen Bonadonna, Amanda Holmes, Lauren Paape, Adam Kosbud, John Wyskiel, Bridget Mitchell, Jeff LaMorte, behind Jeff you have Mike Noonan, Christian Ballenger, and Kendall Steinle.

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Saint Xavier's "Professor Fraud" on You and the Law

Saint Xavier University's Professor William Kresse appeared on an episode of You and the Law, produced by CBA Television Productions, Inc. a not-for-profit affiliate of the Chicago Bar Association.

Kresse took part in the taping of the episode titled Credit Card Hacking alongside fellow guest Assistant Attorney General Christine Nielsen and show host Ruth Kaufman.

He discussed the various ways a consumers credit information can be stolen, what a consumer can do if this happens and what measures a consumer can take to prevent this from occurring.
The discussion also included the specific case of credit card information theft from millions of TJ Maxx and Marshalls customers.

You and the Law is a topical, panel-format talk show, emphasizing the public service aspects of the law. The show explains issues, discusses the impact of public policy changes and court decisions, and stresses the role of lawyers and judges in making and influencing those decisions. The show is cablecast to more than 500,000 households throughout the Chicago area on cable channel 19 in three 12-week seasons per year.

Bill Kresse (aka Professor Fraud) is the director and chief architect of the financial fraud examination and management graduate program at Saint Xavier Universitys Graham School of Management, currently the only classroom-based MBA program in financial fraud examination and identity theft in the country. The 40,000-member Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, the worlds leading organization for anti-fraud professionals, recently named Kresse its Educator of the Year.

Saint Xavier offers the program, which combines law enforcement, law, accounting and general business education, at its Chicago campus, at the Chicago Bar Association building in the Loop and at the Chicago Police Academy. The U.S. Air Force and Chicago Police Department have both chosen the program to better train their agents and officers in identity theft and financial and procurement fraud.

Become a Facebook fan of Professor Fraud at http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/pages/Professor-Fraud/70768387692?ref=nf

Sister Susan Sanders, R.S.M., Ph.D. featured in SouthtownStar

Read the SouthtownStar feature on Sister Sue Sanders, R.S.M., Ph.D., vice president of Saint Xavier University's Office of University Mission and Heritage. She was recently awarded the Unsung Heroine Award from Cook County Commission on Women’s Issues.

SXU's James Walker featured in Calgary Herald

View the Calgary Herald story featuring SXU Professor James Walker interviewed his contribution along with fellow SXU Professor Nelson Hathcock to the book, “Sport, Beer, and Gender: Promotional Culture and Contemporary Social Life.”

SXU’s School of Nursing gives Easter baskets to Saint Margaret of Scotland students

86 baskets given to pre-K through 2nd grade students


(left to right) Saint Margaret students Bria Brandon and Mitraya Owens

Chicago (April 13, 2009) Saint Xavier University School of Nursing faculty, staff and students recently collected items to make Easter baskets for Saint Margaret of Scotland School students in Chicago’s Washington Heights neighborhood.

A total of 86 baskets were made for pre-kindergarten through second grade students. Puzzles were distributed to third grade students, and toys and books were collected for the school’s health center.

Last year, Saint Xavier received a VNA Foundation grant to provide a part-time nurse practitioner for primary care services at Saint Margaret.

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SXU to host Senior Art and Design Student Exhibitions

Two shows run April 11 – April 22 and April 25 – May 6

Chicago (April 9, 2009) Saint Xavier University is hosting two Senior Art and Design Student Exhibitions, both of which are titled “Return to Sender.”

The students created promotional flyers, which encourage people to “return” to Saint Xavier and view the show.

The first show runs Saturday, April 11 to Wednesday, April 22, with an opening reception from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on April 11. The following students will be included in the first show:

• Vanessa Rodriquez, Bridgeview, photography
• Mary Ann Hageline, Willow Springs, illustration
• Eric Perryman, Oak Lawn, graphic design
• Mark Young, Chicago, oil painting
• Megan Dunworth, Chicago, graphic design
• Jackie McGill, Oak Lawn, mixed media
• James Williams, Steger, graphic design

The second show runs Saturday, April 25 to Wednesday, May 6, with an opening reception from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on April 25. The following students will be included in the second show:

• Meghan Sebek, Evergreen Park, graphic design
• Tim Kozak, Burbank, animation
• Sylvia Rusin, Burbank, graphic design
• Diana Renteria, Cicero, sculpture with altar
• Westley McNeil, Chicago, video
• Terry Rudd, Chicago, collage
• Haley Neale, Fort Wayne, Ind., photography

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SXU to screen “Suite Habana”

Last entry in SXU’s 2008-09 “Film and the City” series

Chicago (April 9, 2009) Saint Xavier University will conclude its 2008-09 film series, “Film and the City,” with a screening of “Suite Habana” at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14 at McGuire Hall in the Warde Academic Center on the Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

The screening is free and open to the public.

Directed by Fernando Perez, the 80-minute piece took top honors at the 2003 Havana International Film Festival. A dazzling love letter to everyday life in Havana, “Suite Habana” follows ten ordinary citizens through a day in their lives. Perez neither romanticizes nor condemns, but instead celebrates peoples’ resourcefulness and joie de vivre.

This year’s film series was 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.

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Saint Xavier University one of two hosts for the 8th Annual Chicago Palestine Film Festival

Selection of films to be shown April 13, 15 and 17

Saint Xavier University will be one of two venues for the 8th Annual Chicago Palestine Film Festival. The majority of the screenings will be held at the Gene Siskel Film Center, located at 164 N. State St. A selection of films will also be screened for free at Saint Xavier at 3700 W. 103rd Street in Chicago on April 13, 15, and 17 from 7:00-9:00 PM.

For a complete schedule and listing of this year’s films, visit http://www.palestinefilmfest.com/. The Chicago Palestine Film Festival (CPFF) is an independent, not-for-profit, nonsectarian project based in Chicago that exhibits and promotes films by Palestinian directors and films about Palestine.

“I am so pleased Saint Xavier is once again one of the hosts of this important film festival,” said Iman Saca, assistant professor of Sociology and Anthropology and director of the SXU Middle Eastern Studies Program. “We hope everyone is able to attend this excellent event.”

SXU hosts Honors Program Conference

Conference to host senior projects

Chicago (April 8, 2009) Saint Xavier University will host its annual Honors Program Conference from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 25 in the Butler Reception Room of the Warde Academic Center, 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago.

The conference will showcase senior projects from the Honors Program’s 2009 graduating class. Projects represent a wide range of disciplines, including biology, psychology, education, literature, business, sociology, communication sciences and disorders, music, nursing, political science and math.

Session One:
Panel One: 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Room S-101 – “The Challenges of Care: International Healthcare, Caregiver Burden, Pull-out Therapy and Musical Language Therapy.”

Panel Two: 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Room S-113 – “Interrogating the Issues of Our Time, The Economy, War, Gender Stereotypes, and Preserving our Environment.”

Session Two:
Panel Three: 10:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – “The Advancement of Learning: Mathematics, Language, English, Science and the Extra Curriculum.”

Panel Four: 10:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – “Odyssey in the Arts.”
The luncheon and awards, including the award for Outstanding Senior Project, begin at 12:45.

The SXU Honors Program offers an enriched academic experience to talented and highly motivated students. Honors students may pursue any undergraduate major in the School of Arts and Sciences, Education, Management and Nursing.

To RSVP for the event or for more information, please contact Honors Program Director Judith Hiltner at (773) 298-3230 or hiltner@sxu.edu.

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SXU Renaissance Academy to hold global warming forum

Professor and environmentalist Richard S. Treptow, Ph.D., to speak on April 21

Chicago (April 8, 2009) Richard S. Treptow, Ph.D., will speak at the Spring 2009 John T. Farrell, Sr. Forum at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 21 in McGuire Hall at Saint Xavier University’s Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

The forum, which is free and open to the public, is hosted by Saint Xavier’s Renaissance Academy.

Treptow is professor emeritus of chemistry at Chicago State University. He is also an environmentalist and member of the Sierra Club and the Union of Concerned Scientists. His presentation “Global Warming: The Choice is Ours” will focus on the causes, consequences and cures of global warming.

For more information, please contact Judy Sandberg at (708) 857-8495.

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Gregerson Makes San Diego Padres' Opening Day Roster

San Diego, Calif. - Former Saint Xavier University standout relief pitcher/outfielder Luke Gregerson (Lyons, Ill./Morton) was officially one of just 25 players named to the 2009 San Diego Padres' Opening Day roster when the names were released by the Major League Baseball (MLB) team Sunday afternoon. Gregerson, obtained last month (March 23) from the St. Louis Cardinals as the "player to be named" in the Khalil Greene deal, didn't allow a run in five spring appearances, allowing two hits in six innings with eight strikeouts. The Cardinals selected the former SXU closer in the 28th round of the 2006 MLB First-Year Player Draft.

"I am so proud of Luke and excited about his opportunity to pitch for a Major League Baseball club," said Saint Xavier University baseball coach Mike Dooley. "He worked extremely hard during his career here at SXU, especially his senior season. He got his chance and made the most of it. Making a MLB roster is such a rare feat and even more difficult for a player from a small school, so I hope Luke is aware of just how special he is."

Gregerson becomes just the fourth Cougar to make a MLB roster joining Joe Skalski (Cleveland Indians), Steve Wojciechowski (Oakland A's) and Kevin Sefcik (Philadelphia Phillies). The 24-year-old 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).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. The Padres open the regular season at 4:05 p.m. PT Monday at PETCO Park against the Los Angeles Dodgers with nine players making their first Opening Day roster.

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Read about the SXU School of Nursing's Reminiscence Project

View the April 7 SouthtownStar story about the Saint Xavier School of Nursing “reminiscence project” in which students conducted “timeline interviews” with residents of Smith Village, a Chicago assisted living facility. Students interviewed residents about their lives and how they were affected by key historical events such as World War II and The Great Depression.

SXU family welcomes Ivy Nicole

Saint Xavier University Sports Information Director Rob Huizenga and his wife Jade are the proud parents of Ivy Nicole. Ivy weighed 8 pounds and is 20 1/4 inches long. She was born on March 31, 2009. Rob and Jade also have daughter Ashlyn.

More than 450 attend Saint Xavier University’s annual job fair

Students, community invited to attend

Chicago (April 6, 2009) More than 450 job seekers attended an afternoon of networking with employers and recruiters at Saint Xavier University’s 2009 Annual Job Fair on Tuesday, March 31 in the University’s Shannon Center, 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago.



“We were pleased we could provide opportunities for so many people seeking employment, especially during these troubled economic times,” said Mary Fitzpatrick, assistant director of career services. “This was an excellent opportunity to see many recruiters at once.”

The Job Fair was free and open to students and members of the community. Employers from numerous organizations were present, including: 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.

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

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Saint Xavier University holds “Ask a Pro: Green Careers”

Event focuses on earth-friendly career paths

Chicago (April 3, 2009) Anyone interested in pursuing an environmentally conscious career should attend Saint Xavier University’s “Ask A Pro: Green Careers” event at 6p.m., April 6.

The event, which is free and open to the public, will be in the Butler Reception Room of the Warde Academic Center at Saint Xavier’s Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd Street.

The evening will focus on earth-friendly career paths. Saint Xavier’s Counseling and Career Center and Office of Sustainability have scheduled two authorities to speak about green careers: Paige Finnegan, LEED AP, Director of Sustainable Development at the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Council, Chicagoland Green Collar Jobs Initiative; and Ed Ferrier, PE, LEED AP, GT Mechanical.

“The field of green careers is growing so rapidly that we wanted an opportunity to educate ourselves and our students/alumni about how individuals can prepare for employment working with sustainability issues,” said Jean Riordan, director of SXU Career Services.

For more information, contact Jean Riordan at (773) 298-3131. Media should contact Director of Media Relations Joe Moore at (773) 298-3937.

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Mary Schmich speaks at Saint Xavier University's Squeaky Weal Lecture

Chicago Tribune columnist delights at Saint Xavier University

Chicago (April 2, 2009) Chicago Tribune columnist Mary Schmich delighted a full Butler Reception Room at Saint Xavier University on Tuesday, March 31, when she delivered her lecture, “Adapt or Die: Surviving Change in the New Millennium.”

Schmich drew laughter and, just as often, sounds of commiseration as she described traditional print journalism’s struggle to adapt to Web-based competitors. Drawing equally on her time as a journalist going back to the days of President Carter and her 15 years of yoga, Schmich explained her belief that some things must be let go in order to adapt. She answered questions from the audience ranging from the current climate at the Chicago Tribune, which recently declared bankruptcy, to her own spirituality.

“Ms. Schmich’s insights into the nature and challenges of change in all aspects of our lives were so real, so familiar,” said Sister Joy Clough, R.S.M., coordinator of the Squeaky Weal Lecture Series. “So often listeners recognized themselves in her reflections, and those present were very pleased with the honesty, wit, and wisdom of her presentation.”

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 visit www.sxu.edu, keyword: Squeaky Weal.

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Saint Xavier University fraud protection expert Bill Kresse to be on WYYC's Inside Justice

Tune in Sunday, April 5 at 9:30 p.m. on WYYC Wise TV to see SXU Professor Bill Kresse interviewed on “Inside Justice.”

Kresse will discuss fraud protection for senior citizens with show host Judge Kenneth Wright, 1st Municipal District, Circuit Court, Cook County. Wright is also president of the Chicago Bar Association.

A national expert in fraud and identity theft, Kresse is the architect and director of the SXU Graham School of Management’s Financial Fraud Examination and Management program.

Saint Xavier University to perform Dido and Aeneas

Henry Purcell’s opera of romance and tragedy


(from left) Saint Xavier University senior Andrea Caruso, of Canton, Mich., as Dido and sophomore Timothy Young, of Chicago, as Aeneas.

Chicago (April 2, 2009) The Saint Xavier University Opera Theater will perform Henry Purcell’s opera Dido and Aeneas at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 25, and Sunday, April 26 at 3 p.m. in McGuire Hall, located in the Warde Academic Center of Saint Xavier’s Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

Based on the sixth book of Virgil’s Aeneid, this tragedy provides an evening of contrasting moods and colors. Dido, the noble Queen of Carthage, falls in love with the Trojan prince Aeneas after he flees his destroyed homeland. While the court celebrates the imminent union of the two monarchs, the evil Sorceress and her coven of witches plot their downfall.
There also will be two open dress rehearsal presentations at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 21 and Thursday, April 23 for area students.

Teachers interested in bringing their classes to the rehearsals should contact Annette Adamus in Saint Xavier’s Music Department at (773) 298-3421. Educational information about the opera will be provided for teachers bringing their students to these special performances on request.

Tickets are $10 for the production performance, and parking is free on campus. For tickets or more information, please contact Annette Adamus at (773) 298-3421 or adamus@sxu.edu.

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450 attend SXU’s 6th Annual Health Fair

Participants received free health screenings and services

Chicago (April 2, 2009) About 450 people participated in free health screenings, assessments and information at Saint Xavier University’s 6th Annual Health Fair on Friday, March 27, in the Shannon Center at SXU's Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St. The fair was free and open to the public.



“We are very pleased that so many people from the Saint Xavier community chose to take advantage of the various free screenings and services that were provided at this year’s Health Fair,” said Kristy Allen, assistant facility manager at the Shannon Center. “We hope that the participants will benefit from the full health assessment they received.”

With about 40 vendors participating in the fair, the attendees enjoyed free health screenings and information, massages, cooking demonstrations, nutrition seminars, refreshments and much more. Heartland Blood Center assisted those who wanted to donate blood. Several people also won raffle prizes including gift certificates, gym memberships, healthy cookbooks, and gift baskets, which were provided by the vendors.

For more information, please call (773) 298-3592 or visit www.sxu.edu/athletics.

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