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Mercy Matters Newsletter September 2021


Founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1846, Saint Xavier University is Chicago's first Catholic university. Today, the University serves approximately 3,800 students from 40 different states and 10 different countries, offering high-quality undergraduate and graduate programs and leadership and service opportunities, educating students for competence, character and career success.

Stay up to date with SXU News!


Message from the President

Dr. Laurie Joyner

Dear SXU Community:

Spirit of Mercy Day commemorates the educational ministry of the Sisters of Mercy, which began in Dublin in 1827 and spread throughout the world during the last centuries. Each year, this occasion sparks opportunities for our extended Mercy community to come together in celebration of our noble heritage.

This year's celebrations are augmented by Saint Xavier's 175th anniversary of educational excellence. Since 1846, we have been guided by foundational principles established by the Sisters of Mercy and inspired by their steadfast dedication to service.

I invite all of you to attend the following events in honor of Spirit of Mercy Day:

  • Spirit of Mercy Day Mass - Noon, Mercy Ministry Center
  • Opening of "Into the Light: A Gathering of Religious Artifacts from the Permanent Collection in Celebration of the 175th Anniversary of Saint Xavier University" - 1 p.m., SXU Gallery
  • Student Leader Commissioning - 3 p.m., Academy Bell

We are blessed to live, learn and work in a community guided by the tenets of Mercy, and to play a part in the evolving story began by Mother Catherine McAuley and the Sisters of Mercy nearly 200 years ago. I look forward to continuing this legacy with you.

Sincerely,

Laurie M. Joyner, Ph.D.
President


SXU Celebrates 175 Years of Rich History

Saint Xavier University Arch, 175 Years, 1846-2021, Mercy Founded. Mercy Forward.

SXU is celebrating 175 years in 2021! Since 1846, SXU has been transforming lives through education, and the ways the institution has evolved over time to reach this extraordinary milestone are remarkable. Read more.


SXU Board of Trustees Extends President Joyner's Contract

Headshot of President Joyner

The Saint Xavier University Board of Trustees has unanimously agreed to a five-year contract extension for Laurie M. Joyner, Ph.D., SXU's 20th president, who has served the University since January 2017. Dr. Joyner has exceeded expectations in positioning the University for a brighter future. Read more.


SXU Clears Over $2 Million in Student Debt

Picture of SXU Students

SXU has cleared more than $2 million in student debt, using federal COVID-19 relief funds to help 1,050 students -- nearly a third of the student population. Read more.


SXU to Host 175th Anniversary Homecoming Celebration

SXU alums at a Homecoming football game

SXU kicks off a very special Homecoming Week this fall -- it's the institution's 175th anniversary! Beginning Monday, September 20, the SXU community will participate in a celebration filled with events and activities for faculty, staff, students, alumni and friends. Read more.


SXU Announces Inaugural Recipient of Renee Isadore '06 Memorial Scholarship

Renee Isadore Scholarship winner and family

SXU has announced the inaugural recipient of the Renee Isadore '06 Memorial Scholarship. Taylor Fugett, a junior nursing student, is passionate about the nursing profession and eager to carry on Renee's treasured legacy. Read more.


SXU Students Participate in White Sox Game Changers Initiative

SXU students at the White Sox Game Changers

As part of SXU's partnership with the Chicago White Sox, SXU students recently participated in their Game Changers initiative, designed to celebrate and empower underrepresented communities. This season focuses on sharing stories of diverse communities through art and baseball. Read more.


SXU Recognized as 2022 College of Distinction

SXU is named a College of Distinction for 2022

SXU has been recognized among the 2021-2022 Colleges of Distinction. Colleges of Distinction honors higher education institutions across the country for their engaged, high-impact approach to education, dedicated focus on the undergraduate experience, and commitment to student success and satisfaction. Read more.


SXU to Hold 175th Anniversary Gala

The logo for SXU's 175th Anniversary Gala event

Join the SXU community for a special gala on Saturday, November 6 for an evening of dinner, live music and dancing to celebrate our 175th anniversary. Read more.


Upcoming Events and Important Dates


Sunday, September 19: A Celebration of 85 +1 Years of Excellence in Nursing

Tuesday, September 21: Unveil the Ale

Thursday, September 23: Spirit of Mercy Day and Student Leader Commissioning

Saturday, September 25: Homecoming Tailgate

Tuesday, September 28: Nurse Appreciation Night

Every Tuesday: Noon Mass at McDonough Chapel

Every Sunday: Evening Mass at 8 p.m. at McDonough Chapel

Visit the SXU Calendar to see more upcoming events.