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Boston College, a renowned institution of higher learning, is set to take center stage this summer as it hosts four major international assemblies. These conferences will delve into the legacy and role of Jesuit and Catholic education in addressing pressing modern issues. The University’s active participation in these events highlights its leadership role in Jesuit and Catholic education on a global scale.
A Spotlight on Boston College
Boston College will play host to four significant international assemblies in late July and early August. These gatherings will bring together distinguished scholars, researchers, and educators from around the world. They will explore the vital role of Catholic education in tackling contemporary challenges. The conferences scheduled at Boston College include:
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The 27th General Assembly of the International Federation of Catholic Universities (IFCU): This assembly will take place on campus from July 30 to August 3. It will provide a platform for Catholic universities to come together and discuss the future of higher education.
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The Strategic Alliance of Catholic Research Universities (SACRU): On July 30, college and university presidents from leading Catholic institutions will convene for their first formal meeting. SACRU aims to foster research and teaching excellence, engagement, and global collaboration among Catholic universities.
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The International Symposium on Jesuit Studies: From August 1 to 4, BC’s Institute for Advanced Jesuit Studies will host this symposium. It will explore the historical relationship between the Jesuits and the Church. Scholars and experts in Jesuit studies will present their research findings and engage in thought-provoking discussions.
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The International Association of Jesuit Universities (IAJU): The IAJU will hold its 2022 assembly, “Discerning the Future of Jesuit Higher Education,” from August 3 to 6. This assembly will bring together representatives from Jesuit universities worldwide to envision the future of Jesuit education.
Boston College’s Global Engagement
The fact that Boston College is hosting five separate Jesuit or Catholic conferences within a short span of weeks showcases its prominence in the realm of international assemblies focused on Catholic education. University administrators note that this ambitious program demonstrates BC’s leadership role in Jesuit and Catholic education.
Vice Provost for Global Engagement, James F. Keenan, S.J., who is also the Canisius Professor of Theology and director of the Jesuit Institute, emphasizes the significance of Boston College’s global engagement. He highlights how the University’s capacity to lead and host such events is proven by the extensive program spearheaded by University President William P. Leahy, S.J. Keenan points out that BC has built bridges by strategically scheduling successive assemblies of IFCU and IAJU, which will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on Catholic education.
An Unprecedented Occasion
To underscore the historic nature of these conferences, the IFCU, IAJU, and Jesuit studies symposium will come together on August 3 for a Mass led by Boston Archbishop Cardinal Sean O’Malley, O.F.M., Cap. This joint gathering symbolizes the unity and shared mission of these esteemed organizations in promoting Catholic education globally.
In conclusion, Boston College’s hosting of these four major international assemblies signifies its profound influence in the realm of Jesuit and Catholic education. The University’s commitment to global engagement and leadership is evident, as it provides a platform for scholars and educators to come together and address the critical issues facing Catholic education today. The legacy and role of Catholic education in addressing modern challenges will undoubtedly be at the forefront of these conferences, leaving a lasting impact on the future of higher education.