Dear Community,
This October, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops is celebrating the 50th anniversary of Respect Life Month by calling for radical solidarity with women facing difficult or challenging pregnancies.
This is also the one-year anniversary of the start of The Guadalupe Project, a University-wide collaboration to advance a culture of unconditional welcome to moms, dads, and their children in our community. This ongoing initiative to ensure each person receives the resources they need reflects the University’s commitment to embracing the sanctity of human life and providing unwavering support to its community members..
To commemorate this anniversary, I am excited to announce the release of a short video titled “The Guadalupe Project: Illuminating Lives, Building Love” that highlights how volunteers and staff are offering a helping hand.
Practical support initiatives, such as providing diapers, maternity clothes, and dedicated parking for expectant mothers, are showcased to illustrate the commitment to pregnant students and employees. The video also highlights the University’s commitment to building upon pro-life and pro-family policies to recognize the importance of caregiving and quality time.
The video closes with a heartfelt message encouraging viewers to embrace life, build love, and be the light for those in need. The Guadalupe Project is a testament to the power of love, compassion, and community that I know will continue to grow even stronger in the years to come.
Father Aquinas Guilbeau, O.P., Named First-Ever Vice President of Ministry and Mission
Father Aquinas Guilbeau, O.P., will take on a newly created role in service to the University’s mission as a member of my cabinet. He will continue to serve as University chaplain and director of Campus Ministry.
This appointment to serve on the executive leadership team formalizes what has long been our practice — to consult our head of Campus Ministry on matters of faith, morals, and Catholic identity, and to integrate his advice into all important decisions for the University. Father Aquinas and I arrived at about the same time last year and I have greatly valued his wise counsel during our journey together over the last year plus.
Father Aquinas’ knowledge of the Catholic faith matched with his pastoral experience makes him an invaluable member of our community. In just a short time, he and his team have made an impact on the spiritual and personal growth of countless community members through their commitment to offering ample opportunities for the sacraments, retreats, personal accompaniment, evangelization, and outreach efforts to the needy. Father Aquinas is also a scholar, having completed his doctoral work at the University of Fribourg in moral theology.
It is an honor and privilege to have Father Aquinas contribute to our University’s mission through this new and exciting role building upon his servant leadership. I look forward to continued collaboration with the Campus Ministry team to support our students, faculty, and staff, grow in love and service to God and neighbor.
How Columbus Day is Connected to the University
Yesterday was Columbus Day, a federal holiday created to commemorate explorer Christopher Columbus’ first voyage to the Americas that contributed to the founding of our country.
This history is our history. The Knights of Columbus was named after the Catholic explorer to demonstrate the organization’s loyalty and service on behalf of their country and their faith. The Knights have a long history of supporting The Catholic University of America going back to our founding.
Our founder Pope Leo XIII prayed that the University would “give to the Republic her best citizens.” Through significant donations throughout the years including for scholarships and support for scholars, building our campus facilities, and the Columbus School of Law, the Knights have played a key role in helping us live out that mission. Our student chapter of the Knights is also part of this tradition of service.
Columbus Day, and every day, is an opportunity to reflect on our past, honor those who have shaped our nation and University, and build upon their legacy. We thank all of those who have shared in this journey with us.
This Weekend, Cardinals Return to Celebrate Community
Cardinal Weekend 2022. Patrick Ryan, University Photographer.
Cardinal Weekend, the largest annual gathering of our community members, is Oct 13-15. Alumni, students, parents, faculty, and staff are encouraged to join the fun. As usual, Cardinal Weekend is an a la carte celebration with events for all and for specific class years. Be sure to register by Oct. 13 and check out the schedule for more information.
This annual event is core to our identity as Cardinals because it is a reunion of our extended family. This Cardinal Weekend includes receptions for reunion classes, schools, and alumni networking opportunities; tours of campus and exciting exhibitions; and the annual pregame tent party ahead of our football team’s home game. On Saturday, Oct. 14, we look forward to showing our Cardinal spirit in support of our football team as they play against the Lycoming Warriors.
Our alumni are the living legacy of the University, serving as mentors, role models, and donors paving the way for our future. Cardinal Weekend strengthens the shared connection between community members on and off campus to ensure the University thrives. I look forward to meeting and reconnecting with each of you this weekend!
God bless,
Peter Kilpatrick
President