Joliet Diocese High School Students Secure Admission to USF

The University of St. Francis (USF) in Joliet has established a partnership with the Diocese of Joliet, creating a streamlined pathway for high school students to pursue higher education. This agreement, formalized through a memorandum of understanding, ensures that graduates from diocese-affiliated Catholic high schools will have guaranteed admission to USF.

Students from seven specific schools—Benet Academy, Bishop McNamara Catholic School, IC Catholic Prep, Joliet Catholic Academy, Montini Catholic, Providence Catholic, and St. Francis—are now eligible for this program. The partnership not only facilitates their enrollment but also provides them with opportunities for financial assistance.

Eligible students can apply for the Joliet Franciscan Scholars award, which offers up to $3,000. Additionally, these students remain eligible for USF’s merit-based scholarships, which can reach as much as $21,000, based on academic performance factors such as test scores and GPAs.

Supporting Students and Families

USF plans to enhance this initiative by hosting workshops and information sessions aimed at school counselors, teachers, parents, and prospective students. These events will provide valuable insights into the admissions process and available support services.

Ryan C. Hendrickson, President of the University of St. Francis, expressed enthusiasm for the new collaboration, 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, Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Joliet, added, “This partnership 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.”

The Diocese of Joliet encompasses several counties, including DuPage, Ford, Grundy, Iroquois, Kankakee, Kendall, and Will. This partnership not only addresses the educational needs of students but also aligns with the diocese’s mission to foster community and faith-based learning.

For further details regarding admissions and the new initiative, interested parties can email [email protected]. This collaboration marks a significant step in enhancing educational opportunities for students in the Joliet area, ensuring a brighter future for those pursuing higher education.