Walsh University has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Xavier University of Louisiana, the nation's only Catholic historically Black college and university. This agreement marks the beginning of a partnership aimed at advancing Catholic higher education and expanding opportunities for students and faculty.

Dr. Mike Dunphy, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Walsh University, visited Xavier's New Orleans campus to discuss the collaboration. "By joining forces with Xavier University of Louisiana, we are creating a model for how Catholic institutions can collaborate, share expertise, and help each other thrive," said Dr. Dunphy. "This partnership will directly benefit our students and faculty, and ultimately the communities we serve."

The MOU outlines several collaborative initiatives:

- Graduate Pathways: Streamlined access to Walsh’s graduate programs in Nursing, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Exercise Physiology for Xavier students interested in healthcare careers.

- Business Education: Direct admission to Walsh’s MBA program for Xavier business undergraduates.

- Pharmacy Opportunities: Application opportunities for Walsh biology and chemistry graduates to Xavier’s School of Pharmacy.

- Faculty Collaboration: Joint research initiatives, co-authored publications, and teaching collaborations.

- Student Cross-Enrollment: Enrollment in selected programs or courses at the partner institution.

Xavier University is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year and is recognized nationally for excellence in undergraduate business, pre-medical education, and pharmacy. It leads the nation in producing African American graduates who go on to medical school according to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC).

During his visit to Xavier, Dr. Dunphy met with faculty members including Dr. Marguerite Giguette, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Xavier; they discussed shared academic priorities.

The partnership aligns with a broader strategic initiative within Walsh University's Office of Academic Affairs to establish strong relationships with fellow Catholic institutions both domestically and internationally. Previous partnerships have been formed with Newman Guide universities among others.

“We are excited to collaborate with Walsh University in this shared effort to expand access and promote academic excellence within Catholic higher education,” stated Dr. Giguette.

In upcoming months, both universities will form working groups to finalize specific program agreements and identify initial faculty collaborations. The first group of participating students is expected during the next academic year.