Catholic Scholars Program shapes student leaders at St. John’s University
Founded in 2012 by Pamela G. Shea-Byrnes, the Catholic Scholars Program at St. John’s University aims to shape students intellectually, spiritually, and ethically, with a focus on servant leadership rooted in the Vincentian mission of the university. The program is directed by Victoria M. O’Keefe, Residence Director for Catholic Scholars Program, Social Justice, and Retreats in the Office of Campus Ministry.
O’Keefe explained that the program was established to create a faith and leadership initiative designed to meet contemporary needs. She noted that while its structure includes weekly Mass, retreats, service opportunities, and mentorship, “the program’s heart lies in how students integrate faith into their daily lives—a formation that…continues well beyond the classroom.”
Sophomore biology major Alessandra Cesare shared that her experience as a Catholic Scholar transformed her faith from something meaningful into an all-encompassing part of her life. “I feel as if there’s a kind of light about me that I didn’t have before,” she said. Cesare added that the program taught her to trust in God through challenges: “God’s got it, 100 percent, no need to stress.” She also remarked on how her faith now influences her living space: “If you told me two years ago that I’d have Scripture posters all over my dorm room, I would have never believed you.”
Katherine participates at Mass as a server and choir member and teaches religious education at a local parish in Queens. She said: “I love the community aspect of it. Being in the program genuinely inspires me to be a better Catholic.”
English major Alexandra Prettitore described herself as an introvert who was encouraged by the program to step outside her comfort zone—attending events like Catholic Underground or applying for internships she previously would not have considered. “Prior to Catholic Scholars, I kept my faith to myself…Now, I see it as a light that shines to others,” she said.
Junior Adolescent Education major Briana Tola joined Catholic Scholars on the day her grandmother passed away and saw this as an opportunity to recommit to her faith. “Serving at Mass really helped bring my faith back to me,” Tola said. Now president of St. John’s Society of St. Vincent de Paul chapter and participant in Vincentian Service Immersion programs, Tola emphasized community support within Catholic Scholars: “At a school this big…Catholic Scholars helped me find real friends…You really feel supported by the students and moderators.” She plans to specialize in special education and credits the program with supporting both spiritual and professional growth.
International graduate student Taraja Brown arrived at St. John’s with strong but routine faith practices; participation in service activities led Brown to deeper engagement: “All of that is because of the program…Catholic Scholars opened my eyes to the Vincentian mission in a very real way.”
Senior English major Ashley Mathew highlighted how involvement gave her confidence to speak publicly about faith and justice issues; she identified with advocacy for marginalized groups central to Vincentian values.
First-year Homeland Security major Kevin Romaine found immediate impact through his participation: “I always believed in service, but Catholic Scholars taught me why we serve.” He embraced new forms of prayer and leadership roles early on: “This program helped me understand that service is a way of encountering God.”
St. John’s University is recognized as a private Catholic institution affiliated with the Vincentian Community and provides undergraduate and graduate degree programs across its campuses in Queens and Manhattan as well as international sites such as Rome, Paris, and Limerick (official website, official website). The university offers more than 100 undergraduate majors across six schools (official website) while supporting multicultural initiatives through dedicated centers (official website).
The Catholic Scholars Program continues its role within this context by fostering academic excellence alongside spiritual development among students committed to service-oriented leadership.
