Franciscan University planning for the future

STEUBENVILLE -- In keeping with the school's 75th anniversary, Franciscan University of Steubenville officials unveiled the public-facing portion of an ambitious plan Friday morning -- a $75 million fundraising campaign.

It's the university's most ambitious fundraiser, and it's part of the effort to help the school continue to respond to God's call to Rebuild My Church, based on the call St. Francis of Assisi heard more than 800 years ago, the Rev. Dave Pivonka, TOR, president of the university, said during the announcement.

"It (Rebuild My Church) also is the call Franciscan University is hearing and answering today with a new strategic plan and capital campaign that will breathe new life into our scared mission," Pivonka said.

The plan is to:

≤ Enhance and expand academics with $48 million going to the bricks and mortar centerpiece of the project -- a new Christ the Teacher academic and conference building. Constructed with two wings, the building will house 110,00 square feet of learning space and will be the first new academic building on campus in more than 20 years;

≤ Increase financial aid and scholarship opportunities by $18 million to continue to attract students, many of whom come from large families with limited means; and

≤ Build outreach and evangelization with a $5 million infusion to the worldwide summer youth and adult conferences and expand the university's effort to revitalize Catholics and their parishes.

Other campaign funding will include $2 million for the Center for Leadership and Entrepreneurship; $1 million toward a new, eight-bed skills lab and four simulation labs for the nursing department; and $1 million to support the development of new courses in Franciscan's criminal justice program.

During the past year, donations toward the $75 million goal have been tabulated, and more than $65.2 million has been committed, Bob Hickey, vice president of advancement and leader of the Rebuild My Church campaign, said Friday morning.

"This will empower our nursing, engineering and business programs. It's long overdue, and we're really excited," Hickey said.

"This is, by far, the most ambitious campaign the university has ever endeavored toward, so it is very humbling to share that number with you."

Hickey and Pivonka said the 10 months already spent seeking that funding have been tough but rewarding and, at times, an emotional experience.

Hickey said the effort has been heartwarming and miraculous.

Plans include $3 million in scholarships to students who are willing to take a sabbatical from their smartphones and $5 million in scholarships earmarked for students in Western Pennsylvania.

"We're pretty excited about that and forging some relationships with the diocese in Western Pennsylvania," Hickey said.

Of the $65.2 million already committed, almost $40 million is credited to the board of trustees when you take into account members current and past.

Chris Irvin, a trustee, became emotional when talking about his love for Franciscan University and the community.

"The growth of this place is truly miraculous," Irvin said, remembering that, when he was young, St. Joseph Center was a roller-skating rink. "Half the buildings on campus were not here when Father Dave and I were students in the late 1980s.

"This place means so much to me and to my family … So, it's been my pleasure to keep witnessing the miracle of growth. I can assure you that the men and women I work with on the board are completely dedicated to the mission of this capital campaign."

The spiritual father and president of the university actually spoke last at the announcement.

"I believe the Lord is inviting once again Franciscan University in the spirit of St. Francis to be about rebuilding the church," Pivonka said.

"The reality is, unfortunately, we live in a world today where many people see the church as part of the problem. But I firmly believe that the church is part of the solution, and Franciscan University is going to be at the heart of that," Pivonka told those gathered.

Those listening in at the announcement included several current students.

"Let us always remember you (the students) are why we do what we do," Pivonka said. "So, the reason you are here is for us to be able to serve you, inform you, love you and care for you ... and then graduate you."

The university expects to officially break ground on the Christ the Teacher building next fall and to raise the remaining $9.8 million by the fall of 2023.

Those wanting to help out in the cause can donate through the university's http://giving.franciscan.edu website.