Wednesday, September 30, 2009

SXU to host Harvest Literacy Conference on Oct. 14

NIU Professor Emeritus Jerry Johns, Ph.D., to give keynote address

Chicago (Sept. 30, 2009) Saint Xavier University’s School of Education will host the 2009 Harvest Literacy Conference, a daylong event for teachers, professionals and parents who play an important role promoting literacy, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 14 at the Orland Park campus, 18230 Orland Parkway.

Distinguished Teaching Professor Emeritus Jerry Johns, Ph.D., will give the keynote address “Fluency: Reader Types and Targeted Interventions.” Additional speakers will focus on literacy topics with practical suggestions for the classroom teacher, including: Response to Intervention, Repeated interactive reading to promote comprehension and vocabulary, Gifted and talented readers, Vocabulary strategies, Reading and writing connection, Using notes to enhance understanding, Metacognitive thinking, Technology and literacy, and Differentiation.

Johns, a distinguished teaching Professor Emeritus at Northern Illinois University, has authored, edited or co-authored more than 350 books, chapters, research studies, student materials and journal articles, including the Basic Reading Inventory. He is former president of the International Reading Association, Illinois Reading Council and the College Reading Association. He received the outstanding Teacher Educator in Reading Award presented by the International Reading Association, the Champion for Children Award presented by the HOSTS Corporation and the Laureate Award from the College Reading Association for life-long contributions to the field of reading.

A selection of Johns’ books will be available for purchase at the conference. Local children’s author Esther Hershenhorn will be available during lunch for book signings.

The conference is open to the public. Registration costs $125 and includes continental breakfast, lunch and instruction/workshop materials. Seats are limited and there will be no on-site registration the day of the conference. Registration must be received by Friday, Oct. 9. Register online and visit www.sxu.edu, keyword: harvest or call (708) 802-6200 for more information.

-SXU-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Jay Foot
Executive Director of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or foot@sxu.edu

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

SXU hosts Midwest Women in Computing Conference on Oct. 9 and 10

Conference includes speakers, workshops and student presentations

Chicago (Sept. 29, 2009) Saint Xavier University invites all women in the computing field to the Midwest Women in Computing Conference for special networking and presentation opportunities from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Oct. 9 and from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Oct. on 10 at the Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

The conference will include distinguished speakers Justine Cassell, Ph.D. from Northwestern University and Yolanda Rankin, Ph.D. from IBM’s Almaden Research Center. Other events include a graduate school panel, career counseling panel and a “Crushing Gender Stereotypes” workshop led by Kimberly McLeod, Program Manager of Leadership Development and Academic Initiatives from the Anita Borg Institute for Women and Technology. Music and food also will be provided.

Students from 25 schools will exhibit more than 50 informational posters and “lightning talk” mini-presentations, with topics ranging from “Computer Accessibility for the Visually Impaired” to “Security and Usability in Mobile and Wearable Computer Devices.”

Alumna Kim Thurmon-Johnson and Claudia Philips, a current Saint Xavier computer studies student, will present their Mobile Computer Laboratory, a project founded in 2008 to bridge the digital gap that exists between those of varying economic stations. The MLC provides basic to advanced computer training skills for Chicagoland inner city residents who do not have regular access to such technology.

Registration is $40 for students and $65 for faculty. Scholarships are available for students to cover registration and travel costs thanks to the generous funding from the Microsoft Corporation and Anita Borg Institute. Priority scholarships will be awarded to students who present posters, lighting talks or discussion groups.

To register for the conference, please visit the Midwest Women in Computing Web site. For more information, please contact Flo Appel at appel@sxu.edu.

-SXU-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Jay Foot
Executive Director of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or foot@sxu.edu

SXU hosts fourth annual “Breakfast with your Legislators” question-and-answer and networking event with local elected officials

(Left to right) State Sen. Edward Maloney (D-18th), Chicago Alderman Ginger Rugai (19th), Cook County Commissioner John Daley (D-11th), State Rep. Monique Davis (D-27th), Cook County Commissioner Joan Murphy (D-6th), Cook County Commissioner Elizabeth Gorman (R-17th), Blue Island Mayor Donald Peloquin and State Rep. Kevin Joyce (D-35th).

Chicago (Sept. 30, 2009) Elected officials from the southern Chicago area answered questions from local business leaders about everything from Chicago’s 2016 Olympic bid to the state budget at the fourth annual “Breakfast with your Legislators” event today. The Beverly Area Planning Association and the Blue Island, Evergreen Park and Oak Lawn Chambers of Commerce presented the event. Saint Xavier University hosted the event at its Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St. AT&T sponsored the event.

Participating elected officials were State Sen. Edward Maloney (D-18th), State Rep. Kevin Joyce (D-35th), State Rep. Monique Davis (D-27th), Cook County Commissioner John Daley (D-11th), Cook County Commissioner Elizabeth Gorman, (R-17th), Cook County Commissioner Joan Murphy (D-6th), Blue Island Mayor Donald Peloquin and Chicago Alderman Virginia Rugai (19th).

State Rep. Kevin Joyce (D-35th) on the Illinois state budget:
“I don’t think there is a need to raise the state sales tax to balance the state budget. We need to get our own fiscal house in order before we talk about any increase in the sales tax.”

State Sen. Edward Maloney (D-18th) on rising cooperation among legislators in Springfield:
“The mood and spirit of cooperation in Springfield is much better now than it was under the previous administration. We go back in October and get down to work.”

State Rep. Monique Davis (D-27th) on pension reform:
“At this economically stressful time, it would behoove us to take a look at multiple solutions to control the cost of pensions across the board, in order to realize savings. Changes have to occur.”

Cook County Commissioner, Finance Chairman John Daley (D-11th) on the county budget:
“The Cook County Board president should hold the line on salary increases, and I believe that any budget that is presented should contain an 8-10 percent cut.”

Cook County Commissioner Elizabeth Gorman (R-17th) on American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds:
“We can’t depend on this type of money to balance our budget. We need to think outside the box to get through these difficult times.”

Cook County Commissioner Joan Murphy (D-6th) on taxes:
“No one wants to raise taxes but sometimes you have to do it. We had not raised the sales tax in 16 years.”

Blue Island Mayor Donald Peloquin on rising regional cooperation during a down economy:
“The down economy has created a regional sense of cooperation like I haven’t seen in my 24 years as mayor. It is promoting fresh thinking about regional approaches and solutions. The current situation does not just affect Chicago. It affects the whole region.”

Chicago Alderman Virginia Rugai (19th) on Chicago’s Olympic Bid and Friday’s pending IOC vote in Copenhagen:
“Getting the games will be extremely beneficial and particularly for the south side. I am convinced that it is not a risk for us and that it will be very, very beneficial.”

-SXU-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Jay Foot
Executive Director of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or foot@sxu.edu

Monday, September 28, 2009

SXU’s 2009 Homecoming a “smashing” success

Cougars beat Quincy 51-0, more than 1,000 attend Cougar 5k

(Left) Saint Xavier's 9th Annual Cougar 5k Run/Walk.

Chicago (Sept. 28, 2009)
Alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends celebrated Saint Xavier University’s 2009 Homecoming with a variety of events from Sept. 21 to Sept. 27 at its Chicago campus.

More than 4,000 people watched the Cougars smash Quincy University (Ill.) 51-0 during the Saturday Night Lights Homecoming football game. A pre-game tailgate and reunion celebrating the classes of ’79, ’84, ’89, ’99 and ‘04 preceded the game and included a Saint Xavier Alumni Reunion Tent, bean bag competitions, caricature artist, live entertainment and more. A fireworks displayed hosted by the Alumni Association followed the game.

More than 1,000 people, including Rep. Dan Lipinski (D-3rd), participated in the 9th Annual Cougar 5K Run/Walk at the Shannon Center. Ryan Hopper of Chicago clocked in at 15:56 with the best men’s time and Cara O’Shea of Chicago had the best women’s time of 21:11. A Cougar Brunch followed the event at Gilhooley’s Grande Saloon. Afterwards, the Alumni Association hosted a pre-game family festival with activities for children, including face painting, games, activities, Scales & Tales Traveling Zoo and more.

The Academic Distinguished Alumni Awards Ceremony took place Friday, Sept. 25 and recognized the achievements of its 2009 recipients: Brian P. Gilmartin, CPA, ’93, Graham School of Management Distinguished Alumnus; Theris Touhy, DNP, APRN, BC, ’67, School of Nursing Distinguished Alumna; Charles Floramo, ’80, College of Arts and Sciences Distinguished Alumnus and Marianges Menden, ’86, ’03, Carolyn Majorowski, ’03, and Stephanie Strubin, ’10 School of Education George K. McGuire Awards.

During the afternoon, class of ’69 alumni experienced a narrated bus tour showcasing the transformation and expansion of the Chicago campus and afterwards celebrated their 40th reunion at a reception in the Bishop Quarter Room.

Ludden Speech and Language Clinic celebrated its 50th anniversary with Graduates of the Department of Communication Sciences on Sept. 26. Guest speaker Catherine Gottfred Ph.D., CCC/SLP, founder and president of Leap Learning Systems discussed the development and direction of the profession.

The week concluded on Sunday, Sept. 27 with an Alumni Mass in McDonough Chapel followed by the 2009 Alumni Awards Ceremony and Brunch in the Butler Reception Room. The Alumni Association honored the following: Daniel Rowan D.O., ’81, Distinguished Alumni Award; Richard Guerin ’79, Sister Dorothy Marie Peschon Award; and Ronza Othman ’03, Rita A. Ford, Faith in the Future Award.

For more information about SXU’s 2009 Homecoming, please contact the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations, at (733) 298-3316 or alumni@sxu.edu. You may also find more information on the alumni website.

-SXU-

Friday, September 25, 2009

SXU celebrates heritage with Mercy Day

All-University event honors SXU’s founders and sponsors, the Sisters of Mercy

Saint Xavier student William Sheppard, president of the Student Organization for Veteran Affairs, ringing the Academy Bell with Director of Campus Ministry Esther Sanborn during Saint Xavier University’s Leadership Commissioning ceremony during the 2009 Mercy Day celebration. The Ceremony honored members of the University community who will serve in leadership roles this year.

Chicago (Sept. 25, 2009)
Saint Xavier University celebrated its heritage and core value of service this week with Mercy Day, an observance honoring the Sisters of Mercy who founded and sponsored the University as well as marking the beginning of Mercy-imbued education in Ireland on Sept. 24, 1827.

The Chicago campus’ celebration took place on Sept. 24 and included the dedication of the 49th Street Gateway Arch, named in honor of Saint Xavier’s old campus at 49th Street and Cottage Grove Avenue. Several of Saint Xavier’s “Golden Grads,” women who remember the original arch on the Cottage Grove campus, attended the ceremony.

All were encouraged to participate in the commissioning of leaders from all segments of the University community. At the Academy Bell near the University’s main entrance, representatives of the Sisters of Mercy, trustees, administration, faculty, staff, students and alumni were commissioned and blessed for their service of leadership during the coming year.
Earlier in the day, student stories and photos from last spring’s International Mercy Service Trip to Belize were exhibited in the SXU Diner.

Students, staff and faculty prayed for the continuing vibrancy of the University’s Mercy legacy of education and faith at a Mercy Day liturgy in McDonough Chapel. Public Safety Coordinator and recently ordained Roman Catholic Deacon Robert Landuyt offered a Mercy Day reflection. The Orland Park campus also held a prayer service.

Saint Xavier’s Sisters of Mercy and Mercy Associates held a “Meet the Women of Mercy” luncheon to discuss their commitments to Mercy and to the University.

The day concluded with a lecture from author and poet Bishop Robert F. Morneau, who spoke as part of Saint Xavier’s Catholic Colloquium lecture series. Morneau discussed “Hungers of the Human Heart: A Catholic Poetic Perspective,” which addressed human longings for meaning, intimacy and commitment.

Mercy Day celebrates the opening of the first House of Mercy in Ireland on Sept. 24, 1827, marking the beginning of Mercy service to people who are poor, sick or uneducated. Each Mercy Day, Saint Xavier University joins Mercy-inspired institutions around the world to recall its Mercy heritage and renew its commitment to such core values as respect, integrity and service.

Photo 1: Saint Xavier student William Sheppard, president of the Student Organization for Veteran Affairs, ringing the Academy Bell with Director of Campus Ministry Esther Sanborn during Saint Xavier University’s Leadership Commissioning ceremony during the 2009 Mercy Day celebration. The Ceremony honored members of the University community who will serve in leadership roles this year.

Photo 2: Saint Xavier University’s “Golden Grads,” women who attended the University’s old campus at 49th Street and Cottage Grove Avenue, walk under the new 49th Street Gateway Arch with current students at the Chicago campus during the 2009 Mercy Day celebration.

-SXU-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Jay Foot
Executive Director of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or foot@sxu.edu

Bishop Robert F. Morneau delivers successful Catholic Colloquium lecture at SXU

Theologian and Notre Dame Professor Mary Catherine Hilkert, O.P., Ph.D., to give next lecture on Oct. 8

Chicago (Sept. 25, 2009) Bishop Robert F. Morneau, author, poet, and popular speaker on spirituality spoke yesterday on “Hungers of the Human Heart: A Catholic Poetic Perspective” at Saint Xavier University’s first lecture of the 2009-10 Catholic Colloquium series at the Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

Drawing on the poetry of Gerard Manley Hopkins, Jessica Powers and others, Bishop Morneau addressed human longings such as the hungers for intimacy, meaning and commitment. His lecture was part of Saint Xavier’s annual Mercy Day celebration and the University’s 2009 Homecoming Week festivities. The Office for University Mission and Heritage sponsors the Catholic Colloquium series.

Theologian and Notre Dame University professor Mary Catherine Hilkert, O.P., Ph.D., will give the next Catholic Colloquium lecture, titled “The Human Vocation and the Catholic University: Revisiting Gaudium et spes,” at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 8 at the Butler Reception Room in the Warde Academic Center on the Chicago campus. The lecture is free and open to the public.

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

-SXU-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Jay Foot
Executive Director of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or foot@sxu.edu

SXU’s 2009-10 Theology South lecture series begins with Hon. Judge Joan H. Lefkow

U.S. District Court judge to speak about mother’s tragic story and poems found posthumously

Chicago (Sept. 24, 2009) The Hon. Judge Joan H. Lefkow will be the first speaker in Saint Xavier University’s 2009 Theology South lecture series from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 1 in the Butler Reception Room, located in the Warde Academic Center of the Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

The lecture is open to the public and costs $6 at the door. Coffee will be served at 9 a.m., and a question and answer session will follow the lecture.

Lefkow is a judge in the U.S. District Court of Chicago. Her lecture, titled “I speak of Simple Things,” focuses on her mother, Donna Humphrey. Humphrey was murdered by a criminal who thought he had not received justice in Lefkow’s court. After her mother’s death, Lefkow found boxes of poems that reflected her mother’s hopes, dreams and disappointments. Lefkow published her mother’s poetry as a way of remembering her and ensuring her descendants remembered her.

For more information, please contact Donatta Yates at (708) 422-1635.

-SXU-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Jay Foot
Executive Director of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or foot@sxu.edu

Thursday, September 24, 2009

SXU’s 2009-10 Catholic Colloquium lecture series continues with Mary Catherine Hilkert, O.P., Ph.D

Theologian and Notre Dame professor to discuss the Human Vocation and the Catholic University
Chicago (Sept 24, 2009) Theologian and Notre Dame University professor Mary Catherine Hilkert, O.P., Ph.D, will discuss “The Human Vocation and the Catholic University: Revisiting Gaudium et spes,” at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 in the Butler Reception Room, located in the Warde Academic Center at Saint Xavier University’s Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

Hilkert’s lecture, the second in Saint Xavier’s 2009 Catholic Colloquium series, is free and open to the public. She will revisit the vision of Christian anthropology in the Vatican II Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World (Gaudium et spes). Her focus will be the interrelatedness of human beings and all of creation, differences of gender and the dignity and rights of women around the globe, and the call to solidarity with the poor and marginalized.

Hilkert is former president of the Catholic Theological Society of America. She specializes in contemporary systematic theology with particular interest in theological anthropology, feminist theology and theologies of preaching. Her present research project is a book on theological anthropology titled Grace Enfleshed: A Sacramental Anthropology. She was awarded an honorary doctorate from Providence College in 2002 and was the Madeleva lecturer in spirituality at St. Mary’s College in 2001. She was the first recipient of Washington Theological Union’s Sophia Award for Theological Excellence in Service to Ministry in 1997.

“We look forward to hearing Dr. Hilkert’s insights about how a Catholic university like Saint Xavier can help students and society understand Catholic social teaching and its imperative to continuously seek justice and respond to the needs of the poor,” said Sr. Susan Sanders, R.S.M., Ph.D, vice president for University Mission and Heritage.

The Catholic Colloquium series is sponsored by the Office for University Mission and Heritage. It honors the responsibilities of a Catholic university to its many constituents and illustrates how Catholic universities are resources for examining contemporary civic and social questions.

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

-SXU-

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Jay Foot
Executive Director of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or foot@sxu.edu

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Parakeets popping up in Chicago area

SXU professor, project seeking help from public

Chicago (Sept. 22, 2009) A Saint Xavier University professor and two other researchers are asking for help tracking Chicago’s monk parakeet population with a Web site that allows the general public to chart known nest locations.

Saint Xavier Associate Professor of Biology Christopher Appelt said monk parakeets are colorful, raucous birds that first appeared in Chicago during the 1960s, thousands of miles away from their natural South American habitat. The birds likely made their way into the wild after escaping or being released by their owners, and have since spread to more than 500 nesting locations across the greater Chicago area.

Appelt became interested in monk parakeets after moving to the area in 2004 and began studying whether they were affecting native species. Appelt and University of Chicago professor Stephen Pruett-Jones began mapping parakeet nest locations for the Chicago Parakeet Project in 2007, and later teamed up with University of Illinois at Chicago professor Emily Minor to produce the first population map.

The site contains the current map, descriptions of nests and how to identify them, and a nest location survey. Eventually, it will include an interactive map of local neighborhoods where people can look up nest locations in their area.

Appelt said public input has been useful in compiling the data, which show a thriving parakeet population of at least 500 nests. But since the nests can be up to six feet wide and house several pairs of pairs of parakeets, Appelt said the population is likely at least 2,000 birds.

“We wouldn’t have known about some of these nests if it weren’t for the help of the general public,” he said.

Appelt said the birds are viewed as an agricultural pest in South America, but so far do not appear to be adversely affecting crops or native wildlife in the Chicago area.

“In the future, we’re to make a map with roads or power lines or other structures to get a feel for what kind of pattern they’re following, as well as predicting where we might see them ending up,” Appelt said.

Interested people can watch a video of Appelt discussing monk parakeets. Reporters interested in interviewing Appelt should contact Executive Director of Media Relations Jay Foot at (773) 298-3937.

-SXU-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Jay Foot
Executive Director of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or foot@sxu.edu

Friday, September 18, 2009

Kofi Annan draws more than 1,000 to SXU’s fourth Voices and Visions lecture

Former U.N. Secretary General outlines his Five Rules of International Diplomacy

Chicago (Sept. 18, 2009)
Former United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan drew more than 1,000 people to the Saint Xavier University Shannon Center on Thursday as he spoke on the nature of international diplomacy and the need for multilateral approaches in solving problems.

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.

Annan’s lecture outlined his five principles for international diplomacy: collective responsibility, global solidarity, the rule of law, mutual accountability and multilateralism. He also spoke to the importance of being members of a global community.

“You must constantly look outwards beyond the boundaries of community and country,” Annan said. “We have seen the power and the forces of globalization. We now have to make sure we can shape them for good.”

The City of Chicago recognized Annan’s visit by proclaiming Sept. 17, 2009 as Kofi Annan Day.

“It is a rare honor for Saint Xavier to host such a world renowned figure and international statesman,” said Robert Tenczar, vice-president for University Relations. “This fourth installment of the University’s highly successful Voices and Visions lecture series resulted in a very special night to remember for everyone in attendance.”

Before his lecture, Annan conducted a classroom discussion with a small group of Saint Xavier students. Saint Xavier Student Government Association President Mark Piper called the discussion “fantastic.”

“Mr. Annan’s international perspective and willingness to answer any question directly was both engaging and a thrill for all of us,” Piper said.

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.

-SXU-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Jay Foot
Executive Director of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or foot@sxu.edu

Thursday, September 17, 2009

SXU hosts Fourth Annual “Breakfast with your Legislators” on Sept. 29

State Senators Emil Jones III and Edward Maloney, State Representatives Kevin Joyce and Monique Davis and others scheduled to attend.

Chicago (Sept. 17, 2009) Local business professionals are invited to meet and mingle with Chicagoland elected officials at the Fourth annual “Breakfast with your Legislators” on Tuesday, Sept. 29 at Saint Xavier University’s Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

Elected officials scheduled to attend include State Sen. Emil Jones III (D-14th), State Sen. Edward Maloney (D-18th), State Rep. Kevin Joyce (D-35th), State Rep. Monique Davis (D-27th), Cook County Commissioner John Daley (D-11th), Cook County Commissioner Elizabeth Gorman, (R-17th), Cook County Commissioner Joan Murphy (D-6th), Blue Island Mayor Donald Peloquin and Chicago Alderman Virginia Rugai (19th).

Registration and networking begin at 7:30 a.m. in the Butler Reception Room located in the Warde Academic Center, followed by breakfast and the program at 8 a.m.

The event, which includes breakfast, is $20 per person for Beverly Area Planning Association, Blue Island Chamber of Commerce, Evergreen Park Chamber of Commerce or Oak Law Chamber of Commerce members and $30 for non-members.

The event is expected to sell out and pre-registration and pre-payment are required by Wednesday, Sept. 23. Please register online at BAPA’s Web site or by phone at (773) 233-3100.

“Breakfast with your Legislators” is sponsored by AT&T.

-SXU-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Jay Foot
Executive Director of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or foot@sxu.edu

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

SXU opens 2009-10 Catholic Colloquium lecture series

Bishop Robert F. Morneau to speak on humanity’s hunger for meaning

Chicago (Sept. 15, 2009) Bishop Robert F. Morneau, author, poet, and popular speaker on spirituality, will explore “Hungers of the Human Heart: A Catholic Poetic Perspective” when he speaks at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 24 in the Butler Reception Room at Saint Xavier University's Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

Bishop Morneau’s presentation, which is free and open to the public, will open Saint Xavier University’s 2009-10 Catholic Colloquium Lecture Series. Drawing on the poetry of Gerard Manley Hopkins, Jessica Powers and others, Bishop Morneau will address human longings such as the hungers for intimacy, meaning and commitment. His lecture is part of Saint Xavier’s annual Mercy Day celebration and the University’s 2009 Homecoming Week festivities.

“We are pleased to welcome Bishop Morneau to the Saint Xavier campus and to make his spiritual insights available to our campus and neighboring communities,” said Sister Susan Sanders, R.S.M., Ph.D., vice president for University Mission and Heritage, which sponsors the Catholic Colloquium series. “His presence adds special depth to this week’s Homecoming and Mercy Day events here at the University.”

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

-SXU-


FOR MORE INFORMATION


Jay Foot

Executive Director of Media Relations

(773) 298-3937 or foot@sxu.edu

SXU holds 2nd annual Campus Safety Day during FEMA National Preparedness Month

Sept. 28 event is open to University community, public

Chicago (Sept. 15, 2009) Saint Xavier University students, faculty, staff and the public are invited to experience Campus Safety Day during FEMA’s National Preparedness Month on Monday, Sept. 28 at the Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

Visitors will learn about the latest emergency response and management equipment, technology, and safety procedures in place for a variety of disasters ranging from winter storms and fires to campus violence. There also will be lectures on preparedness, educational displays from various agencies such as the American Red Cross and the Chicago Police Department and an emergency response vehicle display tour.

Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to view the video Shots fired on Campus: When Lightning Strikes, which provides guidance for surviving a campus violence situation. A complete schedule of events is listed at the end of this release.

“The objective of Campus Safety Day is to educate the Saint Xavier community on the basics of individual disaster preparedness where fire, behavioral and weather emergencies are concerned, said Paul Kolessar, Chief of Police and Director for the Department of Public Safety. "We expect these efforts to increase awareness among the campus community and surrounding neighborhood, and boost confidence in federal, state and local response capabilities, operating under FEMA’s incident command system.”

Informational displays will be featured from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Butler Reception Room in the Warde Academic Center. Presenters include the American Red Cross, the Chicago Police Department, the Chicago Fire Department, the Evergreen Park Police Department, the Oak Lawn Police Department, the Orland Park Police Department, Pillars Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services, the SXU Counseling and Career Services, the SXU Health Center and SXU Public Safety

Lectures and Presentations:

American Red Cross: “Be Red Cross Ready and Winter Safety”
9 a.m. to 9:50 a.m. and 11 a.m. to 11:50 a.m.
Butler Reception Room, Warde Academic Center

Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communication: “Emergency Management Preparedness”
10 a.m. to 10:50 a.m. and noon to 12:50 p.m.
Butler Reception Room, Warde Academic Center

”Disaster Planning and Recovery: Where Plans Fail or Succeed” presented by John Watson, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. – Insurance Brokerage and Risk Management
Noon to 12:50 p.m.
McGuire hall

”Students in Distress” presented by John Watson, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. – Insurance Brokerage and Risk Management
2 p.m. to 2:50 p.m.
McGuire hall

”Communications During and After Disasters” presented by John Watson, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. – Insurance Brokerage and Risk Management
3 p.m. to 3:50 p.m.
Butler reception Room, Warde Academic Center

Video presentation: Shots Fired on Campus: When Lightning Strikes
8 a.m. to 8:40 a.m., 9 a.m. to 9:40 a.m., 10 a.m. to 10:40 a.m., 11 a.m. to 11:40 a.m., 1 p.m. to 1:40 p.m., 3 p.m. to 3:40 p.m., 4 p.m. to 4:40 p.m.
McGuire hall

Emergency Response Vehicle Display and Tour: Featuring Illinois National Guard Weapons of Mass Destruction – Civil Support Team and American Red Cross Communications Response Vehicle
8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Parking lot 2, between Shannon Center and Pacelli Hall

-SXU-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Jay Foot
Executive Director of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or foot@sxu.edu

Monday, September 14, 2009

SXU celebrates 2009 Homecoming and Family Week

Includes Saturday Night Lights Homecoming football game, Cougar 5k Run/Walk and 50th Anniversary of Ludden Speech and Language Clinic

Chicago (Sept. 14, 2009) Alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends are invited to Saint Xavier University’s 2009 Homecoming and Family Week celebration beginning Sept. 21 at the Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St. View additional information about Saint Xavier’s 2009 Homecoming Week for ticket prices or to R.S.V.P. for an event.

Monday, Sept. 21

Networking 101: Make the SXU Connection, 6:30 p.m., Butler Reception Room. Counseling and Career Services invites Saint Xavier students and alumni to a special program designed to help participants learn and practice effective networking skills.
Wednesday, Sept. 23

A Celebration of Poetic Expressions, 6:30 p.m., Gilhooley’s Grande Saloon.
An open mic forum/reception with live music and local poetic talent.

Thursday, Sept. 24 – Mercy Day

Liturgy commemorating the traditional Feast of Our Lady of Mercy, noon, McDonough Chapel.

Commissioning of Campus Leaders, 3:30 p.m., Academy Bell.
This annual ceremony celebrates campus leaders who exemplify respect, compassion, integrity and service.

Dedication of the 49th Street Gateway Arch, 3:50 p.m., Smith-Morris Quad.
A ceremony for the new arch at the Chicago campus, which commemorates the alumnae of Saint Xavier’s old campus at 49th Street and Cottage Grove Avenue.

Golden Graduate Society Tea, 4 p.m., Fourth Floor Board Room.
A special afternoon tea for alumnae of Saint Xavier’s 49th Street and Cottage Grove Ave. campus to honor the University’s rich history and exciting future.

Catholic Colloquium Lecture Series: Bishop Robert F. Morneau, 7 p.m., Butler Reception Room.
Auxiliary Bishop of Green Bay Robert F. Morneau will lead a public discourse on the topic “Hungers of the Human Heart: A Catholic Poetic Perspective.” This lecture, which is free and open to the public, reflects on the hunger for meaning, commitment, quality, integration and intimacy.

Friday, Sept. 25

Academic Distinguished Alumni Awards, 6:30 p.m., Butler Reception Room.
A ceremony recognizing the achievements of five Saint Xavier alumni.

Saturday, Sept. 26

Ninth Annual Cougar 5k Run/Walk, 9 a.m., Shannon Center.
Saint Xavier’s annual 5k race begins and ends on campus and travels through Evergreen Park. All participants receive an SXU shirt, refreshments and a ticket to the Homecoming football game upon request.

Cougar Brunch, 10 a.m., Gilhooley’s Grande Saloon.
A post-Cougar 5k brunch.

Ludden Speech and Language Clinic’s 50th Anniversary Luncheon, noon, Butler Reception Room.
A luncheon commemorating the 50th Anniversary of both the Ludden Clinic and the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. Guest speaker Catherine Gottfred, Ph.D., CCC/SLP, founder and president of Leap Learning Systems, will discuss the development and direction of the profession.

Pre-game Family Festival, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Smith-Morris Quad.
A tailgate with activities for kids, including inflatables, face painting, games, activities and the Scales & Tales Traveling Zoo. Food and beverage tickets will be available for purchase.

Class of ’69 Chicago Campus Shuttle Bus Tour, 2 p.m., Mercy Ministry Center.
A narrated bus tour of Saint Xavier’s Chicago campus, showcasing its amazing transformations over the years.

Class of ’69 Reunion Reception, 3 p.m., O’Malley Quad.
A 40th reunion celebration for alumni. The reception will include hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine and live entertainment.

Pre-game Tailgate & Reunion Celebration, 3 to 6 p.m., Deaton Field.
All alumni are invited to a celebration with the reunion classes of ’79, ’84, ’89, ’99 and ’04. This year’s celebration includes the Gilhooley’s Alumni Reunion Tent (guests must be 21 and older), bean bag competitions, a caricature artist, live entertainment and food and beverage tickets for purchase.

Saturday Night Lights Homecoming Football Game, 6 p.m., Deaton Field.
Cheer the Cougars to victory over Quincy University. A post-game fireworks display, hosted by the Alumni Association, will follow the game.

Sunday, Sept. 27

Alumni Mass, 10 a.m., McDonough Chapel.

Alumni Association Awards Ceremony and brunch, 11:30 a.m., Butler Reception Room.
A ceremony honoring three remarkable Saint Xavier graduates.

-SXU-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Jay Foot
Executive Director of Media Relations (773) 298-3937 or foot@sxu.edu

Thursday, September 10, 2009

SXU begins 2009-10 Film Series with Meet Me in St. Louis

First in “Children on Screen: Film and Childhood” series

Chicago (Sept. 10, 2009) Saint Xavier University will screen the 1944 film Meet Me in St. Louis at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17 in McGuire Hall, Warde Academic Center, 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago.

Admission is free and open to the public.

Starring Judy Garland and Margaret O’Brian, Meet Me in St. Louis tells the story of four sisters in St. Louis at the turn of the 20th century. Director Vincent Minnelli masterfully incorporates the newly available Technicolor in this film and ultimately transforms appreciation for the American musical. Featured songs are classics in American popular music and include “The Trolley Song” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”

Meet Me in St. Louis is the first of six movies in Saint Xavier’s 2009-10 film series, “Children on Screen: Film and Childhood.” This year’s film series offers an array of screenings that show the world through a child’s eyes and perception. Upcoming films include Red Balloon, The 400 Blows, My Life as a Dog, Color of Paradise, Valentin and Pan’s Labyrinth.

For more information, contact Film Series Director Alison Fraunhar, Ph.D., at fraunhar@.sxu.edu or (773)298- 3083.

-SXU-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Jay Foot
Executive Director of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or foot@sxu.edu

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley honors SXU for environmental sustainability efforts

City resolution commends University, President Dwyer for “serious and significant commitment” to green building

Chicago (Sept. 9, 2009) Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley and the city council honored Saint Xavier University and its president, Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D., with a resolution commending the University’s efforts toward environmental sustainability during a ceremony today at Chicago City Hall.




The resolution congratulates the University for its “serious and significant commitment to the principle that higher education must be at the forefront of sustainable, ‘green’ building practices,” and outlines several of Saint Xavier’s sustainability accomplishments, including:

  • Saint Xavier being the first University in Illinois to have two Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certified buildings, and one of only 11 universities in the country to accomplish this feat.
  • The GreenBike Share program, which allows University community members to borrow bikes from docking stations across the Chicago campus.
  • Saint Xavier being the first higher education institution in Chicago to sign the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment, a pledge by more than 650 colleges and universities across the nation to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions and become climate neutral.

“On behalf of the Saint Xavier Community, I wish to thank Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley and the City Council for this honor,” said Dwyer. “We are proud to see Saint Xavier’s sustainability efforts recognized by the City of Chicago under the leadership of Mayor Daley, who is clearly one of our nation’s foremost leaders in sustainability initiatives.”

To view the full text of the City Council resolution, please click here. For more information about Saint Xavier’s sustainability efforts, please visit http://greencampus.sxu.edu/.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

SXU president appears in Crain’s annual “Who’s Who in Chicago Business” list

Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D., named for second consecutive year

Chicago (Sept. 8, 2009) Saint Xavier University President Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D., is included in the 20th annual Crain’s “Who’s Who in Chicago Business” list. This year marks Dwyer’s second consecutive appearance on the list.

Saint Xavier University ranks 34 among 146 institutions in U.S. News & World Report’s 2010 ranking of Best Colleges in the Midwest offering undergraduate and master’s degrees. Saint Xavier’s overall rank has advanced 12 places since Dwyer became president in October of 2003.

"We are delighted to see Saint Xavier University receive recognition for its excellence as a leading comprehensive Catholic university in the Midwest," Dwyer said.


The Crain’s Who’s Who list contains more than 750 of Chicago’s civic, professional and cultural leaders, including some of the biggest names in architecture, banking, business organizations, business services, chemicals and agribusiness, construction services, consumer services, cultural institutions, education, financial services, food, government, health care, insurance, law, manufacturing, media/marketing, non-profits, real estate, retail, technology, transportation and utilities.


-SXU-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Jay Foot
Executive Director of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or foot@sxu.edu

Friday, September 4, 2009

SXU Prof. William J. Kresse appears on "Inside Justice"

Saint Xavier University's William J. Kresse recently appeared on an episode of "Inside Justice" on WYCC-TV 20. Kresse is an associate professor at the Graham School of Management and director of the Saint Xavier University Center for the Study of Fraud and Corruption. He discussed elder abuse with host Ken Wright, president of the Chicago Bar Association.

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Martin Yan of Yan Can Cook to visit SXU

Famous chef and cooking show host to perform exhibition, available for media interviews

Chicago (Sept. 3, 2009) Famed chef and national television personality Martin Yan will perform a cooking demonstration at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8 at Saint Xavier University’s Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St.

Yan will perform a knife work exhibition in the SXU Diner, located in the Warde Academic Center. The event is open to the public.

The Diner’s Wild Greens station will be transformed to a Yan Can Cook station for the day, serving new made-to-order Yan noodle and rice bowls. The bowls, inspired by Yan’s cuisine, will be available each Wednesday at Wild Greens.

In addition to hosting the award-winning PBS cooking show Yan Can Cook since 1982, Yan has authored more than two dozen cookbooks and appeared as a guest judge on Iron Chef America.

“We are extremely excited to have a renowned chef like Mr. Yan demonstrate his skills at Saint Xavier,” said Director of Dining Services Joe Vetter.

Yan is available for media opportunities from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on campus. Journalists interested in interviewing Yan should contact Jay Foot, executive director of media relations, at (773) 298-3927 or foot@sxu.edu.

-SXU-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Jay Foot
Executive Director of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or foot@sxu.edu

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Limited seating available for former U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan’s lecture at SXU

Annan to present “The Five Rules of International Diplomacy” at Sept. 17 lecture

Chicago (Sept. 1, 2009) Tickets are still available to see Former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan, 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. on 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.
General admission tickets are $20, plus service charge. A limited number of $200 priority tickets are available, which include priority seating and admission to an exclusive post-lecture wine and cheese reception with Annan. To purchase tickets, visit www.sxu.edu, keyword: voices, or call (866) 468-3401.

Saint Xavier students, faculty and staff may attend for free but must reserve a ticket online. A valid Cougar Card must be presented the night of the lecture with the ticket.
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 for University Relations and in part by the Student Government Association.

For more information about the event, please contact the Office of Special Events at (773) 298-3311 or specialevents@sxu.edu, or visit www.sxu.edu, Keyword: voices.

Reporters interested in covering Annan’s lecture or taking advantage of a special media opportunity the day of the lecture should contact Executive Director of Media Relations Jay Foot at (773) 298-3937.

-SXU-

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Jay Foot
Executive Director of Media Relations
(773) 298-3937 or foot@sxu.edu
 
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