Franciscan University of Steubenville Marks Historic Milestone with Its Biggest Graduating Class Ever

STEUBENVILLE — Franciscan University recently celebrated a historic graduation, with 907 students crossing the stage, the largest class in its history. The event took place in Finnegan Fieldhouse, filled with excitement and pride.

The festivities kicked off with the Baccalaureate Mass. Bishop Andrew Cozzens from the Diocese of Crookston, Minnesota, led the service. He received an honorary doctorate for his leadership in promoting faith through the National Eucharistic Revival. His message was clear: let the love of Jesus guide your life.

Bishop Cozzens highlighted the importance of the Eucharist, saying it’s where one truly connects with God. He urged graduates not to hold back in their faith, warning that any resistance could lead to spiritual emptiness.

He encouraged the graduates to embody the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, the university’s patron. “Be committed to the fire,” he said, urging students to stand strong in a world filled with confusion about faith.

During the commencement ceremony, Mary Rice Hasson, a prominent figure at the Ethics and Public Policy Center, and her husband received honorary doctorates for their advocacy in promoting religious liberty. In her speech, Hasson challenged graduates to confront a cultural crisis regarding identity. She pointed out that understanding what it means to be human is more crucial than ever.

“You are part of a revolution,” she reminded them. Hasson emphasized that there’s no neutral ground in this cultural struggle. The world they are stepping into has been shaped by rapid changes in societal norms.

Rev. Dave Pivonka, the university president, closed the ceremony with a call to action. He encouraged graduates to take their Franciscan education into the world, stressing that the world needs young leaders of faith and integrity. “Live out what you’ve learned here,” he said.

This graduation reflects not just a milestone for the university, but a response to the shifting cultural landscape. As society grapples with definitions of identity and purpose, graduates from institutions like Franciscan play a critical role in shaping the future.

In recent years, surveys show that millennials and Gen Z increasingly seek meaningful connections and purpose in their lives. This trend highlights the relevance of faith-based education in fostering resilience and ethical leadership in a rapidly changing world. As these young adults enter various fields, their ability to navigate complex cultural debates will be vital not only for their success but for society as a whole.

For further insights into the impact of religious education in contemporary society, you can refer to this [report by Pew Research](https://www.pewresearch.org/nonpartisan/). It explores the growing role of faith in shaping values among younger generations.

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