Human Dignity in the Age of AI: A Panel Discussion
University Communications & Marketing | 07/09/2026
Saint Francis University will host a public panel discussion examining Pope Leo XIV's Magnifica Humanitas and its implications for safeguarding human dignity in an increasingly technology-driven world.
Taylor Hess: Aiming for the Sky
Rachel (Vasilko) Heckman ‘13 | 06/18/2026
Taylor Hess is reaching for the sky—literally and creatively. As an aspiring pilot and fiction writer, she’s pursuing her aviation goals while continuing to grow as a storyteller. From flight training through Nulton Aviation to working on her own fantasy novel, Taylor is creating a future that combines passion, purpose, and possibility at Saint Francis University.
SFU and 3S Chemicals Awarded State Grant to Advance Roadway Materials Research
University Advancement Division | 06/12/2026
Saint Francis University has been awarded a $49,771 grant through Pennsylvania's Manufacturing Innovation Program to support a collaborative research project focused on improving the durability and performance of asphalt roadways.
Tesla Dream Job for Engineering Graduate
Rachel (Vasilko) Heckman ‘13 | 06/08/2026
Ever since he was in middle school, Jacob Garrity had his sights set on a career at Tesla. His growing interest in robotics and the company’s image as an industry leader drew him in and ignited a spark. Now, less than six months after his graduation from Saint Francis, Jacob is living out his biggest dream.
Austin Wheeler: Finding His Calling and Launching His Career
University Communications & Marketing | 05/22/2026
Austin Wheeler is a senior engineering student who sees his work as a calling, blending faith with hands-on engineering. From building adaptive vehicles for children through Go Baby Go to contributing to NASA-sponsored ballooning projects, he focuses on making a real impact through his work at Saint Francis University.
2026 Writers Retreat Set for June
Fine Arts Department | 05/15/2026
Writing Among The Pines: A Writer’s Retreat on June 12th – 14th (18+) Join our group of writers and educators for a weekend of workshops, group critiques, guided writing exercises, and the beauty of the Saint Francis campus to inspire your writing.
SFU Summer Arts Workshops Announced
Fine Arts Department | 05/14/2026
Choose from an exciting array of workshops including bookbinding, stained glass, encaustics, and acrylic landscape painting at the Connors Family Fine Arts Center at Saint Francis University in Loretto, Pa.
SFU Nearspace Ballooning Team Launches High-Altitude Mission with Altoona Students
Br. Marius Strom, Engineering Laboratory Instructor | 05/14/2026
Saint Francis University’s Nearspace Ballooning Program partnered with Altoona Area High School students to launch a high-altitude research balloon mission near Spring Church, Pennsylvania. Supported by the FirstEnergy Foundation, the project gave students hands-on experience in science, engineering, launch operations, and payload recovery.
SFU Engineers Earn Top Honors at Zingale Big Idea Competition
Mitchell Jubas | 04/21/2026
Two Saint Francis University engineering students earned third place and a $5,000 prize at the Zingale Big Idea Competition with their innovative high-heat safety product, Heatmark.
SFU’s IDEA Center: The Radio Jove radio telescope connects SFU to outer space
Dr. Tim Miller | 04/21/2026
Saint Francis University’s Radio Jove telescope connects students and regional high schools to real space data, offering hands-on experience in astronomy, engineering, and STEM research.