St. Mary’s University has published findings emphasizing the benefits of attending Catholic higher education institutions. The study, led by Jason King, Ph.D., who serves as the Beirne Director of the Center for Catholic Studies, was conducted in partnership with YouGov, a market research group. It focused on how graduates from Catholic universities compare to their secular counterparts.
Concerns About Financial Focus in Education
King highlighted a concern regarding the trend of families focusing primarily on the financial aspects of higher education, potentially overlooking the significance of personal and spiritual development. The study’s results indicated that alumni from Catholic universities experienced notable increases in several areas: a 10% rise in sense of direction, a 15% greater likelihood of feeling socially fulfilled, and a 19% increased tendency to allow morality to influence their decision-making processes.
Commitment to Research and Development
To further explore these findings, King expressed a commitment to advancing research at St. Mary’s University, aiming to position it as a center for the study of Catholic education and its impact on society.
Institutional Commitment to Community Engagement
Winston Erevelles, President of St. Mary’s University, reiterated the institution’s commitment to fostering leaders and engaged citizens who contribute positively to their communities, emphasizing that the educational impact extends beyond mere financial return on investment.
Student Testimonials Reflecting Personal Growth
Student testimonials, such as that of Esmeralda Lopez, highlight the supportive community and opportunities for personal development offered at St. Mary’s. Lopez, who faced initial uncertainty about leaving her hometown, found a sense of belonging through small class sizes and participation in the Marianist Leadership Program, which emphasizes leadership and community service. Similarly, alumni like Pragyan K C, who relocated from Nepal to Texas, recognized the advantages of a more intimate educational environment compared to larger universities.
The Role of Higher Education in Society
The study contributes to an ongoing discussion regarding the role of higher education in society, urging prospective students and their families to consider the comprehensive experiences available at religiously affiliated institutions.
(Source: St. Mary’s University)