Transforming Hearts, Minds, and Communities at Holy Family University
Stroll across the Holy Family University campus this spring or summer, and you’ll hear the unmistakable sounds of transformation—jackhammers punctuating the air, steel beams clanging into place, and the hum of cement mixers laying the foundation for the future. The changes are impossible to miss, from the state-of-the-art fieldhouse, set to open in the fall, to a new Welcome Center which will create a more inviting campus gateway, possibly by the end of next year. But the evolution at Holy Family is about more than brick and mortar—it’s a story of growth, resilience, and dedication to its students.
Defying the Odds in Higher Education
In a time when many universities are facing closures or mergers, Holy Family is thriving. Over the past nine years, applications have skyrocketed by 143 percent, and first-year enrollment has climbed by 85 percent. Vice President for Enrollment Management Edward Wright attributes this growth to President Dr. Anne Prisco’s “mission-driven strategy that prioritizes student success, increased academic resources, affordability, and career preparation.”
Strong, continuous financial stewardship also supports this ongoing growth and transformation. The University holds an A- rating from Standard & Poor’s and it ranked first for financial viability among 13 schools analyzed by The Philadelphia Inquirer late last year. Moreover, it was the only institution designated to be in excellent financial health during each year between 2015 to 2023.
This remarkable strength isn’t just about numbers—it’s about creating opportunities for students to excel. The expanded Newtown West campus, which will include nursing, cybersecurity, AI, business entrepreneurship, and biotechnology programs, is attracting more students to Holy Family’s educational corridor in Bucks County. Professor of Biology Dr. Jaclyn Myers notes, “Holy Family University’s Innovation Center is positioning the institution at the forefront of educational experiential learning, creating a vibrant ecosystem where industry leaders, student learners, and community partners collaborate to drive discovery and prepare graduates for impactful careers.”
The expansion of physical space is also helping faculty advance research and change the lives of their students. “As dedicated educators, researchers, and community members, our faculty not only shape knowledge but also inspire students to reach their full potential and lead meaningful lives,” explains Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Bindhu Alappat. “Looking ahead, we are committed to greater investment in our faculty, serving the evolving needs of our students and continuing to pursue academic excellence in all of our programs.”
Excellence in Academics and Athletics
This commitment to excellence extends beyond the classroom to the athletic field, where the University’s programs continue to thrive. This past March, the women’s basketball team clinched the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) Championship in a thrilling showdown against Jefferson University. Meanwhile, Holy Family became the first university in Philadelphia to introduce women’s flag football as a varsity sport, underscoring its commitment to innovation in athletics.
Director of Athletics Tim Hamill 04, M’08, a proud Holy Family alumnus, takes great pride in this expansion of athletics. “We have seen an incredible amount of growth in our department and on campus in the past five years. This success would not have been possible without the leadership and support of Dr. Prisco, our Board of Trustees, and the administration, and campus community.” In addition to the new fieldhouse, the department has renovated its cardio and weight rooms, redesigned the gym floor, created an ESPORTs gaming arena, and installed a new turf field that includes lights and a two-lane track.
But Holy Family University remains, first and foremost, an institution of academic excellence. For the third consecutive year, the University earned the NCAA National President’s Award for Academic Excellence, boasting a 92% graduation rate among student-athletes—placing it 15th nationally in Division II.
Investing in Student Experience
Beyond academics and athletics, Holy Family is committed to shaping well-rounded individuals who are both intellectually curious and driven by a sense of purpose. “We are helping to form tomorrow’s change-makers by blending technical expertise and holistic development—creating leaders who transform society through purpose and responsibility,” said Mark Green, associate vice president of Institutional Effectiveness, IT, and Innovation.
This commitment is rooted in the University’s core values, where service and faith shape not only academic pursuits but also personal growth. Through participation in the Synod, a global initiative launched by Pope Francis, Holy Family reaffirms its dedication to human dignity and unity. “The Synod invites us into metanoia—a change of heart that deepens our connection to our faith and to each other,” says Director of Campus Ministry Stephanie McCarthy.
The University’s dedication to holistic development extends to mental health and well-being. The newly created Center for Wellness and Spirituality in Delaney Hall provides a space for students to seek support, fostering a balanced approach to education and life. More than just earning a degree, students “are on a path to discover their identity and capture what it means to them to exist as a human,” says Supervising Clinician Josue Martinez. “The Center is designed to help them on this journey, looking past an academic lens to a wellness lens, addressing all aspects of their life.”
Students are also encouraged to broaden their perspectives through cultural experiences that foster global awareness and leadership. A recent trip to the United Nations headquarters in New York City, organized by Dr. Mary Carroll Johansen and Prince Adnan El Hashemite, allowed students to witness diplomacy in action, observing the Security Council and General Assembly. Through this immersive experience, students engaged with people of varying faiths, cultures and backgrounds, deepening their understanding of international relations and global responsibility.
Community and the Future
Driving all of these transformations is the unwavering support of the Holy Family community and alumni. “The generosity and engagement of alumni continues to make a profound impact on the lives of our students,” says Wendy Parsons, CFRE, vice president for advancement. “This year’s Ready, Set, Roar Day of Giving was one of the university’s biggest successes. The gifts we receive from our alumni directly fund scholarships, easing the financial burden for our students and empowering them to focus on their education and future careers. In all that we do, the collective commitment of our alumni family is inspiring. Every donor makes a difference. Every gift makes an impact. We are deeply grateful.”
As the hum of construction continues and steel pillars rise, the transformation at Holy Family extends far beyond the physical campus. It is a reflection of a deep-rooted commitment to faith, service, and shared responsibility. At the heart of these changes lies our guiding principle: tenoir votis—“I am bound by my responsibilities.” More than a duty, it is a shared promise to one another and to the future—a promise that fuels student success, empowers faculty, and expands opportunities for generations to come.