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

Franciscan University of Steubenville has officially dedicated its new mission in Washington, D.C., known as the Ward and Kathy Fitzgerald Franciscan University Homeland Mission. The event took place on February 28, shortly after the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast, with approximately 175 attendees.

The initiative aims to prepare students for public service roles by equipping them to participate at high levels in legislative processes with a missionary spirit. A $10 million donation from Ward and Kathy Fitzgerald facilitated the acquisition of facilities that will serve as a hub for this mission.

Father Dave Pivonka, President of Franciscan University, stated, “We at Franciscan University are invited to be light…So we are spreading that light from one hill in Steubenville to another hill here in Washington, D.C.” He emphasized the mission's focus on transformation and change within the capital.

Ward Fitzgerald expressed his gratitude towards the university’s Christ-centered mission. “We are hollow vessels for the Lord,” he said. “It really is a gift for us to be able to give to a place like Franciscan University.”

Ambassador Andrew Bremberg highlighted the distinctiveness of this initiative compared to other educational expansions into Washington, D.C. He described it as “a bold step forward in forming faithful Catholic leaders who will serve our country and the Church in a time of great need.”

Amelia Abdalla, a senior student majoring in philosophy and political science, voiced her enthusiasm about future opportunities provided by this initiative. “Washington needs what we have to offer,” she noted.

Stephen Catanzarite, Executive Director of Franciscan University Encounter and leader of programming for the Homeland Mission, remarked on starting a new chapter in the university's history. “Through the Homeland Mission, we are creating new opportunities, relationships, and encounter that will prepare and equip our students to be joyful disciples while working in and around the federal government,” he said.

For more information about the Homeland Mission or inquiries regarding participation or programs offered through this initiative, interested parties can contact Stephen Catanzarite directly via email or phone.