Holy Cross College welcomed 24 worldwide superiors from the Congregation of Holy Cross Nov. 19 for a morning that blended hospitality, reflection, and a firsthand look at the College’s growing national momentum.
President Dr. Marco Clark offered an ambitious vision for the College’s next five years—one in which Holy Cross becomes recognized across the United States as a premier Catholic institution, rooted in community and positioned uniquely across the street from one of the world’s top universities.
Dr. Clark centered his remarks on three defining strengths. The first is the College’s culture of accompaniment, a hallmark of Holy Cross identity. Faculty and staff know students personally and intentionally guide them through academic formation, spiritual growth, and the relational challenges facing what he called “an anxious generation.” Students encounter one another in authentic community, encounter Christ through mission-driven formation, and encounter mentors who walk side-by-side with them in the Holy Cross tradition.
The superiors also learned about the College’s expanding 4-3-2-1 Pathway Programs, including with the University of Notre Dame. These allow students to begin at Holy Cross, complete their bachelor’s degree, and move seamlessly into graduate or professional programs, what one alumnus described to President Clark as “the cheat code to college.”
Br. Paul Bednarczyk, C.S.C., Superior General of the Congregation of Holy Cross, was among those visiting campus Nov. 19.
Provost Dr. Mike Griffin underscored how Holy Cross integrates the Catholic intellectual tradition (CIT), the Catholic social tradition (CST), and the Holy Cross charism (CSC) across the curriculum. “CIT, CST, CSC—those nine letters guide every academic decision,” he said. “They focus us on educating both mind and heart.”
Dr. Diane Barlas, Vice President for Mission and Ministry, highlighted the College’s integrated four-seminar sequence, which moves students from interior reflection to social analysis to vocational purpose. Early feedback, she noted, shows that students are beginning to question, discern, and think more deeply about the world around them.
Prior the presentation, the visitors toured campus, stopping at the Devotional Shrine of Our Lady of Sorrows and Legacy Hall, the residence hall honoring the Brothers of Holy Cross whose ministry laid the foundation for the College.
The visit concluded with remarks from Br. Paul Bednarczyk, C.S.C., Superior General, who expressed gratitude for the College’s collaboration with Holy Cross ministries worldwide—especially its support of Le Centre Le Pèlerin—and praised Holy Cross College for its fidelity to the charism. He described the College’s work as “very inspiring” and affirmed its vital role in forming the next generation of Holy Cross-educated leaders.