University Observances
Three annual events provide all members of the Saint Xavier University with opportunities to remember, reflect on and renew their engagement with the mission and heritage of the institution. Sponsored by the Office for University Mission and Heritage, these special observances integrate prayerful, academic and festive aspects of University life into programs that involve all SXU constituents -- students, staff and faculty; trustees, administrators and alumni; Sisters of Mercy, donors and special guests. All three events enrich the University community by attending to the essentials of SXU’s educational mission, Catholic identity and Mercy heritage.
Mercy Day
Celebrated on the traditional feast of Our Lady of Mercy, Mercy Day honors the Sisters of Mercy whose educational work began on this date in 1827 in Dublin, Ireland. That work preceded the formal founding of the Sisters of Mercy as a religious congregation, a fact that points to the longstanding sense of partnership between sisters and laypersons in the quest to serve those in need of education. Mercy Day events regularly include a special Eucharistic liturgy, opportunities for conversation with Sisters of Mercy who serve or have served at Saint Xavier, and the annual commissioning of campus leaders -- sponsors, trustees, administrators, faculty, staff, students and alumni.
Founders’ Day
Founders’ Day is dedicated to Saint Xavier’s founding personalities and educational commitment. Attention focuses on the founding Sisters of Mercy, most specifically Mother Frances Xavier Warde, and on Saint Xavier’s enduring commitment to the liberal arts and sciences as the foundation of its academic program. Celebrated on the feast of St. Francis Xavier each year, Founders’ Day also honors the University’s two namesakes -- St. Francis Xavier and Mother Frances Xavier Warde. Observances generally include a special Eucharistic liturgy as well as a program centered on the liberal arts and sciences and featuring members of the Saint Xavier University community and occasional guest speakers.
Mission Day
Saint Xavier University educates students so that they might “serve wisely and compassionately in support of human dignity and the common good.” Mission Day, celebrated on a selected March date each year, highlights this aspect of the University’s mission statement. Central to the day are three service awards -- the Mother Paulita Morris, R.S.M., Student Service Award; the Sister Isidore Perrigo, R.S.M., Staff Service Award; and the Saint Xavier University Faculty Service Award -- each presented to persons selected by their peers for their exemplary adherence to the University’s core values. It is a day when those values -- especially service, excellence and hospitality -- are much in evidence.
