By Tessa Gervasini
CNA Newsroom, Mar 1, 2025 / 09:20 am
The Ward and Kathy Fitzgerald Franciscan University Homeland Mission (FUHM) officially opened on Feb. 28 in Washington, D.C., providing a spiritual home away from home for Franciscan students. The initiative, led by Stephen Catanzarite, executive director of Franciscan University Encounter, aims to extend the impact of Franciscan University of Steubenville (FUS) beyond its campus in Ohio.
The opening event at the FUHM facility welcomed students, alumni, and guests to learn about the program’s mission and take a tour of the center.
In his opening remarks, Catanzarite emphasized the goal of preparing students, alumni, and others to work for systematic change in the federal government through programs and events offered at the center.
FUHM will accommodate groups of students traveling from the Steubenville campus, providing bedrooms, a faculty wing, kitchens, a common gathering area, and an on-site chapel.
Ambassador Andrew Bremberg, an FUS graduate who served in the first Trump administration, praised the initiative as a bold step towards forming faithful Catholic leaders to serve both the country and the Church in challenging times.
With the opening of FUHM, more students will have the opportunity to bring Franciscan formation to the heart of the nation’s capital, shining the light of Christ in service of the greater good.
John Paul II once emphasized the importance of bringing the Gospel into every aspect of public life. This sentiment was echoed by Bremberg, who stated that faithful Catholics are called to be the light of the world and the salt of the earth. It is not just a program, but a call to serve in various spheres such as government, law, media, and public policy.
During a recent event, presenters highlighted that the Franciscan University Homeland Mission (FUHM) is not limited to political science students but is open to all Franciscan students. Student speaker Amelia Abdalla emphasized that the mission aims to provide a home for students of any major, background, or nationality in Washington, inspiring them to use their talents to serve the common good.
According to Catanzarite, the program will kick off soon, with the first group of engineering students visiting D.C. to learn about advocacy and funding for science. This interdisciplinary initiative will provide students with opportunities to engage with Capitol Hill and make tangible contributions to society.
