SAINT XAVIER The Magazine of Saint Xavier University
Fall 2026
TOGETHER in
MERCY
CELEBRATING
180 YEARS
S A I N T
X A V I E R
U N I V E R S I T Y
National Alumni Board The Saint Xavier University National Alumni Board has played a critical role in fostering meaningful relationships, enhancing the alumni experience, and serving as ambassadors for SXU for nearly a century. They are a dynamic and dedicated group of alumni leaders committed to strengthening connections, advancing SXU’s mission, and supporting the continued growth of the University community. Saint Xavier is grateful for those serving on this year’s Board. Executive Committee Michelle M. Tourtillott ’12, President Joseph P. Markasovic ’22, Vice President Lisa Y. Simmons ’10, Secretary Gloria E. Barrera ’07 Paris V. Davis ’09, ’10, ’12 Larue M. Fitch ’07 Gilbert Gallarzo ’24, ’26 Elizabeth A. Guerrero ’25 Jessica M Heller ’15, ’17 Joseph Higgins ’06 Shanee Markita Hunter ’07 Dalia Ihmud (Student Member)
Kelly M. Knudsen ’13 Joseph F. Raices ’26 Adam E. Reyes ’15 Kristopher K Stasukaitis ’21 Lanessa R. Vantrease ’13 Felicia Verser ’96 Sherry M. Ward ’15 Nicholas S. Wirth ’09, ’11
Fall 2026 SA I N T X AV I E R M AGA Z I N E Magazine Purpose Statement: Saint Xavier Magazine strengthens the shared connection between alumni, the University and its community. Stories demonstrate the core values of excellence and diversity, encourage learning for life and engage the minds of the University family. Saint Xavier Magazine is published for the University’s alumni and friends by the Office of University Relations and is sponsored by the Office of University Advancement. Vice President of Marketing, Communication, and Planning Deborah Rapacz
Saint Xavier University, a Catholic institution inspired by the heritage of the Sisters of Mercy, educates persons to search for truth, to think critically, to communicate effectively, and to serve wisely and compassionately in support of human dignity and the common good.
CONTENTS
Senior Editor Breeanna Villalpando Contributing Writers Adrian Aldrich Jeanmarie Cusack Caress Dean Brian Hotzfield Imelda Macías Ann Piejko Deborah Rapacz Nicole Reitz Breeanna Villalpando Kelly White
2 | Q&A Introducing New Faces
4|E nrollment Momentum Continues
6 | SXU Prepares for 2028 HLC Visit 6 | Best of SXU 7 | Alumni Spotlight: Anna Ortigara Gives Back
Photographers Michael Grimm Matthew Pennala Designer Alejandra Torres
4 | Enrollment Momentum Continues
8 | Innovate 2028
8 | Innovate 2028
Editorial Office Saint Xavier University 3700 W. 103rd Street Chicago, IL 60655
10 | Building the Future of Cougar Football 10 | Cougar Pride Powers a Year of Honors 12 | Our Lady of Guadalupe Arrives on SXU Campus 12 | SXU Celebrates the Core Value of Service
Alumni Relations www.sxu.edu, keyword: alumni
12 | S XU Celebrates the Core Value of Service
13 | Celebrating the Future While Honoring the Past Fall 2026 | 1
Q& A
Adrian Aldrich
Vice President for University Advancement
Caress Dean, Ph.D. Provost
INTRODUCING NEW FACES In 2025, Saint Xavier University proudly welcomed its new Provost, Caress Dean, Ph.D., and new Vice President for University Advancement, Adrian Aldrich. As the two have settled into their roles, they have enhanced their leadership styles and are committed to contributing to the bright future of SXU.
What are some of the values or principles that guide your work?
How would you describe your leadership style?
Dean: My work is guided first by faith. Faith keeps me focused, grounded, and resilient as I create, implement, and evaluate projects. It reminds me that meaningful work requires patience, purpose, and a willingness to keep moving forward even when challenges arise.
Aldrich: Purposeful. Strategic. Person-centered. Faithbased. I strive to lead by connecting people to meaning, holding a high bar for quality, and paying close attention to how decisions affect people and the community around me. Generally, I’m not satisfied with merely accomplishing something; I want the accomplishment to feel authentic to the mission and worthy of the people I’m asking to participate in it. This is why university advancement work is so fulfilling to me and why I’m so happy to have found a home at SXU!
I am also guided by flexibility and adaptability. We live and work in a constantly evolving world, and the needs of students are always changing. Being flexible allows me to respond thoughtfully and identify solutions in a timely manner while adaptability ensures that I can adjust my approach without losing sight of the ultimate goal: meeting student needs and supporting their success. Finally, creativity is central to my work. Many of the challenges we face do not come with simple answers, so creativity is necessary to imagine new possibilities, identify the best solutions, and recognize opportunities to make a meaningful difference. These principles shape not only what I do but how I do it — with intention, resilience, and a commitment to impact. 2 | Saint Xavier
What attracted you to SXU, and what have you come to appreciate most about the University community since arriving? Dean: What drew me to SXU was its mission-centered education. Even before I arrived, I could see that mission reflected in the University’s website and in my early conversations with people across the community. There was a clear sense that SXU was committed to more than education alone — it was committed to purpose, service, and student growth.
Since joining the SXU community, I have come to appreciate just how deeply that mission is woven into campus life. I see it in our community events, in the classroom, in service and internship projects, and in student activities. The mission is not just something that is stated; it is something that is lived. Being able to continuously see that mission embedded in the life of the University has only solidified my decision to become part of the SXU community. Aldrich: My attraction to SXU was rooted in what I saw from a distant suburb as not only potential but meaningful purpose. The students we serve and the community in which we are situated are hidden gems in the Chicagoland area. Our dedicated faculty coupled with Mercy tradition and humble Catholic roots have attracted students from all walks of life and faiths for 180 years. We have scores of healthcare workers, educators, entrepreneurs, and most importantly, productive citizens among our alumni ranks. I appreciate their passion and pride in their life’s work and pray that in my time in this role, they’re inspired to become more engaged with the University community and to join me in creating a culture of generosity that expands our educational reach, opens doors for career readiness, and creates relationships that last a lifetime. What a gift to the South Side of Chicago and to all those who have, or will, set foot on our beautiful campus!
Looking back on your time here, what are some of your biggest takeaways? What have you learned? What accomplishments do you feel proud of? Aldrich: I’m continually blown away by our students! They are sharp, articulate, thoughtful, and action-oriented and they ask the best questions. The biggest takeaway so far has been the level of care and compassion that has been invested in this institution over the years. We have had to be lean and fiscally conservative but have never compromised the commitment to our mission. I’m proud to be part of this wonderful community. In particular, to be part of a small but mighty University Advancement team that is committed to instilling a sense of pride for one’s affiliation with the University; assisting with the recruitment of talented undergraduate and graduate students who would benefit from an SXU education; opening doors for career and life readiness; and facilitating a culture of generosity where annual giving elevates the education we deliver. The team is our engine that opens doors for your engagement and impact on current and
future generations of SXU students. They too are here to serve you and are ready and willing to help you in any way they can.
What are your top priorities for the next year? What opportunities do you see for SXU? Dean: My top priority for the next year is to continue strengthening the student experience by connecting SXU’s mission more intentionally with career and life readiness. I believe there is a powerful opportunity to expand our work with community partners so that students can engage in meaningful internships, class projects, and service experiences that benefit both their personal growth and the communities we serve. These opportunities allow students to live out SXU’s mission while building the skills and experiences that prepare them for employment, leadership, and long-term success. When students are able to apply what they learn in real-world settings, they become more competitive for jobs and better prepared not only to secure those opportunities, but to retain them, excel in them, and grow into future leadership roles. I look forward to working with faculty, listening to students, and engaging community partners to help make this vision a reality. I am also excited to hear from students and future alumni about the impact these experiences have on their careers, lives, and continued commitment to service. Aldrich: My top priority for this fiscal year is to get out and about to meet our alumni and donors — in the Chicagoland area and around the country. Under Dr. Elder’s leadership, we continue to build momentum as a campus community both in and out of the classroom. There’s a palpable feeling on campus as students return for a new year. Anticipation, potential, a general sense of optimism and promise. Alumni engagement and fundraising is all about relationships, not transactions. I want to meet you in person and can’t wait to hear your story — how you chose SXU as your educational home, what inspires you to make your annual gift, and what success you’ve had because of our Mercy education. Moreover, I want to learn about your passions and help find ways to connect that passion with a student in need, a faculty member who wants to elevate their impact, or to give you “all the feels” in knowing that your generosity is both transformative and appreciated. So, when I reach out and ask you to grab a cup of coffee or to find time for us to meet, I hope you’ll accept the invitation. n
Fall 2026 | 3
ENROLLMENT
MOMENTUM
C O N T I N U E S AT SAINT XAVIER UNIVERSITY Saint Xavier University continues to build on remarkable enrollment momentum, reflecting growing student demand, strategic partnerships, innovative academic programming and an unwavering commitment to student success. Following the largest freshman class in University history in fall 2025—with 771 first-year students—SXU has continued to reach new milestones. The University also achieved an unprecedented accomplishment by enrolling more than 1,000 new undergraduate students— freshmen and transfers combined—for three consecutive years, demonstrating the strength of its academic offerings and student-centered approach. That momentum continued this fall, as SXU began the semester with 3,311 enrolled undergraduates, the largest number in 20 years. For the first time in history, SXU welcomed 1,128 new first-year and transfer students to campus, surpassing the all-time record of 1,077 new undergraduates in 2006. 4 | Saint Xavier
Graduate enrollment is also experiencing sustained growth. Fall 2025 marked the second consecutive year of increased new graduate enrollment, with a 10 percent increase over the previous year. Current projections for fall 2026 anticipate an additional 20 percent increase, reflecting continued demand for graduate programs designed to meet workforce needs and support career advancement. A key contributor to this year’s growth is Saint Xavier’s partnership with Trinity Christian College. Following Trinity’s announcement that it would close after the Spring 2026 semester, SXU quickly stepped forward as a teach-out partner, providing personalized advising, seamless credit evaluation, and clear pathways to degree completion. More
than 120 Trinity students are expected to continue their education at Saint Xavier, where they have found both academic continuity and a welcoming community rooted in the University’s Catholic Mercy mission. “The closing of Trinity Christian College was heartbreaking for its students, faculty, staff, alumni, and everyone who cares deeply about Christian higher education,” said Keith Elder, Ph.D., president of Saint Xavier University. “While we regret the circumstances that made this partnership necessary, we are grateful Saint Xavier University could provide a welcoming home where students could continue pursuing their degrees without losing sight of their dreams. Our Mercy mission calls us
to respond with compassion, and it has been an honor to walk alongside these students during such an important transition.” Additional enrollment growth is being fueled by marketresponsive graduate offerings, including the University’s expanding Alternative Licensure program in Education, as well as strengthened community partnerships and enhanced recruitment efforts. Together, these achievements reflect more than strong enrollment numbers. They demonstrate Saint Xavier University’s growing reputation as a destination where students find opportunity, personalized support, and an education grounded in purpose. As SXU continues to innovate while remaining faithful to its Mercy mission, the University is well-positioned to welcome a new generation of students and prepare them to lead lives of meaningful impact. n
SXU PREPARES FOR
2028 HLC VISIT
Saint Xavier University is looking ahead with confidence and purpose as preparations continue for its 2028 Higher Learning Commission (HLC) visit. More than a milestone in the reaccreditation process, the visit will offer SXU an opportunity to reflect on its mission, celebrate its strengths, and demonstrate its ongoing commitment to academic quality, ethical stewardship, student success, and institutional effectiveness. Faculty and staff teams are working collaboratively to review the four HLC criteria: Mission; Integrity: Ethical and Responsible Conduct; Teaching and Learning for Student Success; and Institutional Effectiveness, Resources and Planning. Their work includes gathering evidence, reviewing documentation, identifying data gaps, and developing plans to support a strong and comprehensive Assurance Argument. Beginning in January 2026, SXU focused on evidence collection and gap analysis. During the 2026-2027 academic year, the
University will continue data collection, draft criterion sections, conduct internal reviews, engage leadership in the review process, and begin campus visit preparation. During the 2027-2028 academic year, SXU will continue refining drafts, inviting feedback from the University community, engaging the Board of Trustees, completing the Assurance Argument, participating in mock and external review, and preparing for the April 2028 visit. Together, these efforts will help SXU tell its story clearly and confidently in a way that reflects the mission-driven community it serves. n
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT ALUMNA ANNA ORTIGARA ’77 GIVES BACK TO THE SCHOOL THAT SHAPED HER LIFE When Saint Xavier University alumna Anna Ortigara ’77 reflects on her college years, she remembers more than earning her nursing degree. She remembers the friendships she built, the community she found, and the foundation that helped shape a lifelong career dedicated to caring for others. Ortigara, a Tinley Park resident, graduated from Saint Xavier in 1977 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Nearly five decades later, she continues to support the University’s Nursing program through generous donations, helping ensure future generations of nurses have the resources they need to succeed. “I made many lifelong friends and built a strong identity as a nurse and the impact nursing has on building strong communities,” Ortigara said. A graduate of St. Willibrord High School in Chicago, Ortigara chose Saint Xavier because generations of her family attended the University. Her mother earned a nursing degree there in 1948, and several other relatives also graduated from Saint Xavier, making her decision to enroll a natural one. “There’s a lot of alignment there,” Ortigara said. “It was a women’s college with a strong Catholic and strong South Side connection.” Campus life extended beyond the classroom. Ortigara was active in Theatre II, played women’s football, and remains close friends with several graduates of the School of Nursing nearly 50 years later. After earning her bachelor’s degree, Ortigara received a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Gerontological Clinical Nursing from Northern Illinois University. Her Saint Xavier education became the foundation for a career spanning more than four decades in gerontological nursing, long-term care and aging services. “I really loved my career in nursing and loved my job,” Ortigara said.
Throughout her career, Ortigara held leadership positions with the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center, LeadingAge Illinois, The Green House Project and PHI. She became a nationally recognized educator, consultant, and advocate for personcentered dementia care and continues teaching nursing courses online while working as an independent organizational and educational consultant. Despite a career that has taken her across the country, Ortigara has never lost sight of the University where it all began. “Saint Xavier is an anchor for the South Side of Chicago,” she said. “That is a hallmark of SXU’s identity as the oldest baccalaureate nursing program in the state of Illinois and an anchor to the health and wellness of the South Side.” Supporting SXU’s Nursing program is close to Ortigara’s heart. “Nursing is a very expensive major for a university to support,” Ortigara said. “I know what it takes to maintain and update the Simulation and Integrated Learning Center (SILC) and the Nursing program. It is critical that the program has the resources to maintain academic excellence. That investment is a major contribution to our city and the South Side.” “I take pride in contributing to the ongoing success of SXU and especially the Nursing program,” she said. “I also love that SXU is strongly committed to first-generation college graduates.” Nearly 50 years after graduating, Ortigara continues to invest in the University that helped launch her career, ensuring future Saint Xavier nursing students have the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of others. n Fall 2026 | 7
2028
A STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK FOR A STRONGER SAINT XAVIER UNIVERSITY
In today’s higher education landscape, standing still is no longer an option. Demographic shifts, changing workforce demands, financial pressures and evolving student expectations require universities to think differently about how they fulfill their missions. Recognizing these realities, Saint Xavier University developed Innovate 2028—a strategic framework designed not simply as a plan, but as a continuous process for institutional improvement and transformation.
opportunity to turn ideas into meaningful progress. From new academic programs and enhanced student spaces to investments in technology and student success, we are building a stronger Saint Xavier University that is responsive to today’s needs while remaining grounded in our Mercy mission. This is only the beginning, and I’m excited about the momentum we’ve created together,” said President Keith Elder.
Innovate 2028 was never intended to be The Innovate 2028 framework focuses a document that Unlike traditional strategic plans that on several interconnected priorities: can become static documents, Innovate strengthening student success, refreshing sat on a shelf — it academic programs to meet emerging 2028 is built around implementation and measurable outcomes. This reflects a workforce needs, deepening mission growing best practice in higher education: is a commitment integration, investing in people and places, strategic planning that is agile, dataexpanding philanthropy and partnerships, driven, and directly connected to resource and creating a more innovative, hybrid to action. allocation and institutional priorities. university that meets students where “Innovate 2028 was never intended to be a document that sat on a shelf—it is a commitment to action. Over the past year, our faculty and staff have embraced the 8 | Saint Xavier
they are.
One thing that distinguishes Innovate 2028 is its dual approach to innovation. University leadership established
strategic priority teams to advance major institutional goals while simultaneously inviting faculty and staff to submit community-generated proposals that could improve the student experience, increase operational effectiveness, or generate new revenue opportunities. This balance between institutional direction and grassroots innovation ensures that ideas emerge from every corner of the University. Progress is measured through key performance indicators, implementation plans and regular reporting. The result is a living framework that encourages continuous improvement, informed decision-making and shared accountability. Ultimately, Innovate 2028 reflects Saint Xavier University’s commitment to honoring its Mercy heritage while preparing confidently for the future. By aligning mission with market realities, innovation with accountability, and strategy with action, the University is building a sustainable foundation for growth— one that will serve students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the broader community for years to come.
INNOVATE 2028 Saint Xavier University will be the thriving Catholic, Mercy university on Chicago’s South Side, recognized for producing successful, career-ready graduates grounded in mission.
IMPROVING STUDENT SUCCESS, EXPERIENCES AND OUTCOMES Goal: We will provide exceptional, student-centered experiences that cultivate a strong sense of belonging and support students’ persistence toward academic and career success.
REFRESHING AND DISTINGUISHING OUR PROGRAMS
Goal: We will maintain an optimal mix of high-quality, in-demand academic programs that are financially sustainable and produce successful, career-ready graduates.
INVESTING IN PEOPLE AND MODERNIZING PLACES
Goal: We will recruit and retain promising and productive faculty and staff and provide functional and modern spaces that foster innovation, community and collaboration.
ELEVATING PHILANTHROPHY AND ENGAGEMENT
Goal: We will strengthen fundraising and governmental relations to meet student, employee and campus needs, ensuring that we provide the resources and support necessary for academic success, innovative programs and a vibrant campus community.
MISSION INTEGRATION
Goal: We will incorporate our Catholic, Mercy mission and heritage into our academic programs, student experiences and daily operations, fostering critical thinking, promoting diversity and inclusion, and building community through shared values and service.
EDUCATING STUDENTS TO SERVE WISELY AND COMPASSIONATELY IN SUPPORT OF HUMAN DIGNITY AND THE COMMON GOOD.
FEATURED PROJECTS
Innovate 2028 continues to move from planning to implementation through strategic initiatives designed to strengthen both the student experience and institutional effectiveness. • The University is investing in new software solutions across multiple functional areas to improve operating efficiency, enhance service delivery, and create a more seamless experience for students. • Campus life has also been enriched through improvements to student gathering spaces, including the reopening of Gilhooley’s and the addition of new lounge areas that encourage connection, collaboration, and community. • Saint Xavier University has expanded its athletic offerings with the launch of women’s flag football. A head coach has been hired, and recruiting and promotional efforts are underway in preparation for the inaugural season. Additional investments in student support staffing are also
helping ensure students receive the guidance and resources needed to succeed. • To strengthen school spirit and campus engagement, planning is underway for a marching/spirit band that will enhance the student experience at athletic and campus events. • This fall, the University launched a Nurse Manager Micro-credential, providing working nurses with a practical professional development pathway to strengthen leadership skills. • Graham School programs will begin integrating Coursera Career Academy opportunities, embedding industryrecognized credentials and career-focused learning directly into the student educational experience. Progress reflects the strength of the Saint Xavier community and its shared focus on innovation, student success and long-term sustainability. n Fall 2026 | 9
BUILDING THE FUTURE OF
COUGAR FOOTBALL When vice president for University Advancement Adrian Aldrich began his work at Saint Xavier University in January 2025, the Urso Center Football Locker Room Renovation campaign was already well underway. In his first meeting with Coach Mike Feminis, it was immediately clear that the renovation effort was not only essential for the program but also inspiring a level of alumni and donor engagement that will help propel Cougar football to new heights.
student-athletes are valued not only for their performance on the field but also for their growth as students, leaders, and members of the campus community.
The new space is modern and welcoming, giving players a place to prepare, connect as teammates, and take pride in representing the University. It reinforces that
they could, no matter the size of the gift – and collectively brought a dream to reality in just over a year. When Cougars dream big, anything is possible. n
renovation has also strengthened It reinforces that The recruitment efforts. Prospective studentstudent-athletes are athletes and their families see a program that is supported, forward-looking, and committed valued not only for to excellence. The locker room tells a powerful their performance story about the opportunities available at Saint Xavier, where tradition, ambition, on the field but also and community come together to create an Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of alumni, parents, and friends, the campaign for their growth as outstanding collegiate experience. has made a lasting investment in the studentstudents, leaders, Every donor who contributed helped create athlete experience. The renovated locker a space that inspires confidence, unity, and room is far more than a facility upgrade—it and members purpose. Their generosity will continue to reflects the commitment, belief, and pride shape the experience of current and future of the campus supporters have shown in Cougar football and Cougars for years to come. They responded Saint Xavier as a whole. community. to the call for financial support – to give what
10 | Saint Xavier
COUGAR PRIDE
POWERS A YEAR OF HONORS Over the last two seasons, Saint Xavier University’s Athletics program has pushed to new heights. From national championships and NAIA runner-up appearances to Coach and Player of the Year honors and record-breaking performances, the Cougars have dominated every field, court, and track. The 2027 season will bring new excitement as SXU expands to 21 varsity sports with the addition of women’s flag football.
2025-2026 ATHLETICS ACCOLADES
Men’s Volleyball • National runner-up at the NAIA Championship for the second consecutive season • CCAC regular-season champion for the sixth year in a row and CCAC tournament championship for the seventh year in a row in 2026 • 2025 and 2026 NAIA Men’s Volleyball Coach of the Year: Tom Ryan, Head Coach • 2025 NAIA Men’s Volleyball National Player of the Year: Matt Pennala (pictured) • All-time career kills record at 1,140: Matt Pennala Women’s and Men’s Track • 2025-26 NAIA Women’s Indoor Track and Field 600m National Champion: Lexi Clarke • 2025 NAIA Men’s Outdoor Track and Field Discus National Champion: Ayobami Arokoyo • In 2026, Arokoyo was honored with a ring ceremony as the first SXU male individual to claim a national title across all sports Baseball • 2025 Co-CCAC Regular Season Champions • 2025 CCAC Tournament Champions Softball • CCAC regular-season champion for the third year in a row and CCAC Tournament Championship for the sixth consecutive season in 2026 • 2026 CCAC Pitcher of the Year: Lilly Strand • 2026 CCAC Player of the Year: Jazmyn Casas • 2026 CCAC Coach of the Year: Erin Mollohan For more information on SXU’s athletic programs, scan the QR code. Fall 2026 | 11
OUR LADY OF
Revered as the “Mother of the Americas,” Our Lady of Guadalupe is a symbol of hope, compassion, and unity for people of every culture and background.
GUADALUPE ARRIVES ON SXU CAMPUS
In December 2025, Saint Xavier celebrated the arrival of a hand-carved statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe, commissioned by the Office for Mission and Heritage especially for SXU and created by renowned New Mexico santera Rhonda Crespin. The celebration began with a prayerful procession from the Shannon Center to McDonough Chapel, followed by a joyful and reverent bilingual Mass serenaded by mariachi. Afterwards, everyone gathered for fellowship over Mexican sweet bread (pan dulce) and hot chocolate. The celebration brought together students, families, alumni, faculty, staff, and neighbors in one of the University’s largest Guadalupe celebrations to date. More than 230 people gathered to honor a tradition rooted in Mexican culture yet embraced throughout the Western Hemisphere. Revered as the “Mother of the Americas,” Our Lady of Guadalupe is a symbol of hope, compassion, and unity for people of every culture and background.
For SXU, Our Lady of Guadalupe is more than a work of art. She reminds the community that every person is worthy of dignity, compassion, and belonging, and her story continues to inspire SXU’s commitment to accompanying those on the margins and building a community where everyone feels seen, valued, and loved. The Office of Family and Community Engagement will continue to create spaces where faith, culture, and service unite people across differences. The permanent presence of Our Lady of Guadalupe on campus serves as a lasting reminder that the Mercy mission belongs to everyone and is lived most fully when the entire community becomes one – better together. n
SXU CELEBRATES THE CORE VALUE OF SERVICE In spring 2026, Saint Xavier held a day to put Mercy service into action, demonstrating that meaningful change begins when a community comes together to serve others. Sisters of Mercy, members of SXU’s Board of Trustees, students, staff, alumni, families, and community members worked side by side to assemble care packages, create educational resources, support local nonprofit organizations, and participate in service projects benefiting neighbors across the South Side of Chicago and beyond.
completed, the community was reminded that meaningful change is often built through small acts of kindness.
More than a day of volunteering, the event reflected SXU’s belief that service is a shared responsibility and one of the most powerful ways to build lasting relationships. Working alongside others created opportunities for conversation, understanding, and connection, and as the final tally of service projects was
As SXU celebrates 180 years of serving Chicago’s South Side, initiatives like service days continue the legacy established by the Sisters of Mercy of bringing people together, strengthening communities, and demonstrating that we are at our best when we serve wisely and compassionately – together in Mercy. n
12 | Saint Xavier
The Office of Family and Community Engagement remains committed to making service an ongoing part of the SXU experience by creating opportunities for meaningful service experiences that unite SXU students, staff, faculty, and families, as well as the surrounding community, around Mercy values, including compassion, hospitality, justice, and human dignity.
u p c o m i n g
ALUMNI &
FRIENDS E v e n t s
Please join us for a variety of fun and spirited upcoming events.
Homecoming and Alumni Tailgate SXU Cougars vs. Lawrence Tech Blue Devils
CELEBRATING THE FUTURE
Saturday, October 10
In August, Saint Xavier hosted the annual New Student Induction Ceremony, welcoming the Class of 2030 while recognizing the legacy of the Class of 1976, who returned to celebrate their Golden Graduation.
Giving Tuesday
WHILE HONORING THE PAST The reunion began in the Mercy tradition with a liturgy. It was followed by a welcome-back reception, campus tours led by student ambassadors, open dialogue with senior leadership, and a reunion dinner.
All agreed that participating in the New Student Induction Ceremony, held prior to dinner, was the highlight of the day. As students begin their academic journeys, this annual ceremony is designed to help them feel a sense of belonging and purpose as they join the Saint Xavier University community. As honorees of the ceremony, the Class of 1976 led the procession past an honor guard of applauding faculty through the 49th Street Gateway Arch, a replica of the gateway to education experienced by legacy alums from the 49th Street campus. They then entered the main arena of the Shannon Athletic and Convocation Center, where they were greeted with a standing ovation from alumni, staff, parents and friends. Although their gracious descriptions of the day — “an unforgettable gift,” “a fantastic experience,” “like I never left” — are heartwarming, it was the University that was truly honored to have welcomed the Class of 1976, the pioneers of SXU, back to campus. Their presence at this very special event will remain in the memories of the Class of 2030. n
News and Brews
September 17 (West Loop) November 14 (Clarendon Hills) Ongoing Tuesday, December 1
Christmas Spectacular Sunday, December 6
Alumni Wine Reception
Thursday, February 4, 2027
Cubs vs. White Sox Spring Training Game March 2027
31st Annual Golf Classic August 5, 2027
To learn more and for a list of other upcoming alumni events, scan the QR code.
Fall 2026 | 13
3700 West 103rd Street | Chicago, IL 60655 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Calling all Alumni SHARE YOUR NEWS AND VOLUNTEER WITH SXU! We want to hear about your success after graduating from SXU. You are an important part of a rich history of 180 years of educational excellence, and your story will inspire both your fellow alumni and current SXU students. Beyond sharing your story, you can make a direct impact on the SXU community by becoming an alumni volunteer! From Mercy-focused opportunities to career mentoring, ambassador work and more, your service directly supports SXU’s mission. To share your news and learn about volunteer opportunities, scan the QR code.