New educational beginnings in 2009
Monday, December 29, 2008
*Msgr. Franklyn Casale
As we face a new beginning in January 2009, the St. Thomas University family is committed more than ever, in view of the complexity of our nation’s economy, to instill the professional and social service skills necessary for each student to become an exemplary leader in a given field. As we strive to inspire our young to create positive and lasting changes in the regions they will serve, whether in South Florida, the Americas or Asia, a dedicated team is working closely with students to ensure they get the best possible financial aid package and no one is left behind.
Looking at the bright side of opportunities, there are plenty of scholarships
and financial aid programs other than student loans, including the Vision 2000
Scholarship, available to every student in a Catholic high school. In fact, more
than 85 percent of St. Thomas University students receive some form of financial
aid, making higher education in a private school accessible to all.
Today’s workplace is ever changing. Recruiting qualified scientists and nurses
has become a critical need for our country’s future. With the opening of the
Carnival Cruise Lines Science and Technology Building, St. Thomas University has
dramatically increased its undergraduate research abilities.
Understanding the economic challenges many families and bright kids are facing,
the school is now offering nationally unique science programs like the STEM
(Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) FELLOWS cohorts. Set to begin
in January 2009, the FELLOWS program will offer selected minority students with
outstanding academic records the chance to pursue research-based majors in
biology, chemistry and mathematics. These baccalaureate students will be
prepared to compete for entry into the finest graduate programs in science,
mathematics and medicine.
Understanding students’ needs to balance a rigorous curriculum with spiritual
development, fun and relaxation, we are happy to see the rapid progress in
construction of The Fernandez Family Center for Leadership and Wellness, set to
open in summer 2009. An athletic and educational hub serving as the home to the
university’s School of Leadership Studies, our nationally renowned Sports
Administration programs and the basketball and volleyball teams, the center’s
arena also will be available for use by the wider community.
Now is the time to plan education initiatives and workforce advancement for
years to come. As the news media report on government cuts in grants to Florida
students in private colleges, this is a good time for the Catholic family to
generate letters to the governor and public officials opposing budget cuts to
private universities.
Following the spirit of harmony, friendship and reconciliation of the Christmas
season, the “action” side of our inner-self should engage us in a purpose-driven
year, reaching out in service to others in addition to pursuing our
self-development. Imagination, discovery, creativity, ethics and the mission of
caring for the disadvantaged are the hallmarks of a Catholic leader. And
whatever path we choose to follow or area we choose to specialize in, we must
remember that the value of a Catholic higher education never declines.
Did you struggle to pay for your college education or are you worried about
being able to pay for your child’s future college expense? How are you preparing
yourself and your child for the expense of higher education? Did you consider a
Catholic university or is your child considering one?
Msgr. Franklyn Casale
President, St. Thomas University
