Joliet Diocese High School Students Secure Guaranteed University Admission

The University of St. Francis (USF) in Joliet has entered into a partnership with the Diocese of Joliet, ensuring that graduates from affiliated high schools will have guaranteed admission to the university. This initiative, outlined in a memorandum of understanding, aims to facilitate access to higher education for students attending Catholic high schools within the diocese.

Under this agreement, students from seven diocesan high schools—Benet Academy, Bishop McNamara Catholic School, IC Catholic Prep, Joliet Catholic Academy, Montini Catholic, Providence Catholic, and St. Francis—will benefit from streamlined admission processes at USF. This development not only provides a clear path to enrollment but also opens doors for financial support through the Joliet Franciscan Scholars award, which offers eligible students up to $3,000.

In addition, students may qualify for merit-based scholarships at USF, which can amount to as much as $21,000. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, including standardized test scores and grade point averages.

Support and Resources for Students

To further support students and their families, USF plans to conduct workshops and information sessions aimed at school counselors, teachers, parents, and prospective students. These initiatives are designed to provide crucial information about the university and its offerings.

Ryan C. Hendrickson, President of the University of St. Francis, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are so pleased with this new partnership and look forward to working with the Catholic high schools within the Joliet diocese. We now have a pathway that removes admission barriers and eases the pathway to enrollment at USF, which includes scholarship support.”

Jim Quaid, the superintendent of schools for the diocese, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, noting, “This partnership between the Diocese of Joliet and the University of St. Francis provides the students of our Catholic high schools a wonderful option. They can advance their education while staying engaged with the Catholic church in the diocese, growing in their faith and serving our community.”

Geographical Impact and Further Information

The Diocese of Joliet encompasses several counties, including DuPage, Ford, Grundy, Iroquois, Kankakee, Kendall, and Will. This initiative represents a significant educational opportunity for students within the region.

For more details about the partnership or to inquire about admissions, interested parties can contact the university at [email protected]. This collaboration not only enhances educational pathways but also fosters a stronger connection between the university and the diocese, ultimately benefiting students seeking higher education.