Introduction
Located in Lodi, New Jersey, Felician University is a private Catholic institution that offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. The university was founded in 1942 by the Felician Sisters, a religious order of women who are committed to serving the community through education and other charitable works. Over the years, Felician University has grown in size and reputation, attracting students from across the country and around the world. In this blog post, we will explore some of the fun facts about Felician University that you may not know.
Fun facts about Felician University
Felician University’s Mascot
One of the most unique features of Felician University is its mascot – a golden eagle named “Louie.” This majestic bird represents strength, agility, and a fierce determination to succeed – all qualities that Felician University strives to instill in its students. Louie can often be found at athletic events, cheering on the Felician Golden Falcons and inspiring school spirit. In addition to being the university’s mascot, Louie is also an ambassador for Felician University, helping to promote the school’s values and mission to prospective students and the wider community.
Another interesting fact about Louie is that he was originally named “Talons” when he first arrived on campus in 2004. However, after a student vote in 2006, he was renamed “Louie” in honor of Felician University’s former president, Sister Mary Louise Demetrio.
The School’s Unique Heritage
Felician University has a unique heritage that is deeply rooted in the Catholic faith and the Felician Sisters’ commitment to social justice and community service. The Felician Sisters were founded in 1855 in Warsaw, Poland, and they quickly gained a reputation for their dedication to education and helping the poor and marginalized. In 1923, the Felician Sisters arrived in the United States and began their work in New Jersey, establishing schools and hospitals to serve the community.
In 1942, the Felician Sisters founded Felician University as a way to continue their mission of education and service. Today, Felician University remains true to its roots, offering a values-based education that emphasizes the importance of community, social justice, and compassion. The university’s core values are encapsulated in the Felician Franciscan values of compassion, respect for human dignity, solidarity with the poor, transformation, and justice and peace.
Notable Alumni
Over the years, Felician University has produced many notable alumni who have gone on to achieve great success in a wide range of fields. One such alum is Brian Williams, a well-known journalist and anchor who has worked for NBC News and MSNBC. Williams graduated from Felician University in 1980 with a degree in Political Science and Communications.
Another notable Felician alum is Maria Bartiromo, a journalist and anchor who currently works for Fox Business Network. Bartiromo graduated from Felician University in 1989 with a degree in Journalism and Economics. She has won several awards for her work, including two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Business and Economic Reporting.
Other notable Felician University alumni include Kevin Burkhardt, a sportscaster who works for Fox Sports, and John F. Kennedy Jr., the son of President John F. Kennedy and a noted lawyer and publisher.
The University’s Commitment to Sustainability
Felician University is committed to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint. In 2014, the university installed a 67-kilowatt solar array on its Rutherford campus, which generates clean energy and helps to reduce the school’s dependence on fossil fuels. The university has also implemented a number of other sustainability initiatives, including a campus-wide recycling program, a green cleaning program, and a program to reduce food waste in the dining halls.
In addition to these initiatives, Felician University has also committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by the year 2020. To achieve this goal, the university has implemented a number of energy-saving measures, such as upgrading lighting fixtures and HVAC systems, and promoting energy-efficient practices among students, faculty, and staff.
Felician University is also a member of the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), which is a network of colleges and universities that are committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By being a member of AASHE, Felician University is able to share best practices and collaborate with other institutions to promote sustainability in higher education.
Diversity and Inclusion
Felician University is committed to diversity and inclusion, and strives to create a welcoming and supportive community for all students, regardless of their background or identity. The university has a number of initiatives in place to promote diversity and inclusion, such as the Diversity and Inclusion Task Force, which is responsible for developing and implementing programs and policies that promote a more inclusive campus environment.
Felician University also offers a number of resources for students from underrepresented backgrounds, such as the Diversity Scholars Program, which provides financial support and academic mentoring to students who come from historically underrepresented groups. The university also has a number of student clubs and organizations that are dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion on campus, such as the Black Student Union and the Pride Alliance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Felician University is a unique and vibrant institution that is committed to excellence in education, social justice, and community service. Its rich heritage, notable alumni, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to diversity and inclusion make it a great place to learn and grow. Whether you are a current student, a prospective student, or simply someone who is interested in learning more about this fascinating university, there is no doubt that Felician University has something to offer everyone.
