Father Dave Pivonka, TOR '89 President | Franciscan University website

On April 29, 2024, Franciscan University of Steubenville and Veritas University in Abuja, Nigeria, sealed a significant partnership through a memorandum of understanding, marking a milestone for the two Catholic institutions. The collaboration, scheduled to commence at the onset of the 2024-2025 academic year, aims to enhance cooperation between the universities and bring forth valuable opportunities for educational and spiritual growth for students.

Stephen M. Rasche, JD, a faculty fellow at Franciscan University, emphasized the importance of the agreement, stating, “This agreement is a continuation of the growing relationship between Franciscan University and the Church in Nigeria.” He highlighted the potential for increased academic and spiritual solidarity and exchange between the institutions.

Dr. Stephen Hildebrand, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Franciscan University, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, describing it as a manifestation of the desire to serve and learn from one another. Hildebrand emphasized the mutual love and shared values that underpin the collaboration, stating, “The agreement is not so much a relationship of mutual advantage as it is one of mutual love.”

Father Hyacinth Eme Ichoku, the Vice-Chancellor at Veritas University, also conveyed his appreciation for the agreement, particularly noting the authentic Catholic spirituality at Franciscan University. Father Eme Ichoku expressed his belief that Veritas University would benefit from embracing the Franciscan experience.

The partnership between Franciscan University and Veritas University holds the promise of facilitating faculty and student exchanges, study abroad programs, collaborative research initiatives, and service opportunities, spanning disciplines such as theology, nursing, computer science, and business administration. By establishing closer ties with Nigeria's 60 dioceses, Franciscan University aims to deepen its engagement with the vibrant Catholic community in Africa.

As the two institutions embark on this collaborative journey, students are expected to gain valuable insights into each other's cultures and challenges, fostering a deeper understanding of their shared identity as members of the universal Church. The partnership is poised to shape the academic and spiritual experiences of students at both universities, enriching their educational pursuits and nurturing a sense of communal solidarity.