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REV. ROBERT L. NIEHOFF, S.J. The 24th President of John Carroll University
REV. ROBERT NIEHOFF S.J.
LIVING the MISSION
FROM the COMMUNITY
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LIVING THE MISSION
FROM the COMMUNITY A successful path forward
Reflecting on the past 12 years of the presidency of Rev. Robert L. Niehoff, S.J., we are grateful to have benefitted from his spiritual, quiet, and consistent leadership. As a thoughtful, tight-knit community, we are proud of all John Carroll University has accomplished under Fr. Niehoff ’s dedicated stewardship. We have witnessed Fr. Niehoff ’s passion for our students, whose commitment and dedication to scholarly work and service has inspired his leadership. His unwavering support of our University is exemplified in our dramatically improved four-year graduation rate of talented low-income students. His passion for and commitment to all of our students was evident at more than 700 donor and alumni lunches and dinners, where he shared our institution’s priorities and vision for a stronger future based on the meaningful work of our faculty and staff. His drive and determination has ignited our loyalty and commitment to our distinguished alma mater.
Fr. Niehoff has invested a significant amount of time helping educate members of the Carroll community about the University’s Jesuit character and identity. As he celebrates his 45th year with the Society of Jesus, he can be assured that the Jesuit Catholic mission and traditions he has entrusted the Carroll community to carry forward will remain part of the University’s fabric for generations to come. We look forward to continuing our relationship with him through consulting and alumni activities as he enters this next phase as president emeritus. In light of Fr. Niehoff ’s inspirational stewardship, may each one of us carry on the Jesuit tradition of being men and women for and with others, as well as continue to serve our students and support one another in our Jesuit Catholic mission. Based on all we have accomplished during his leadership, we will continue on a clear path to strengthen the University for long-term success. Onward on.
Gratefully,
Michael J. Merriman ’78 Chair John Carroll University Board of Directors
David W. Short ’81 Immediate Past Chair John Carroll University Board of Directors
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Fr. Niehoff leaves us well positioned for future growth and development. That position is exemplified by the Higher Learning Commission’s reaffirmation of our accreditation status; the launch of our strategic plan; the growing prestige of our accountancy and science programs; partnerships with the Cleveland Clinic and Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine; the prestigious NBC/John Carroll University “Meet the Press” Fellowship; and the football team’s defeat of Mount Union for the first time in 27 years, which drew national media coverage.
FROM the COMMUNITY
That loyalty and commitment was illustrated through significant and memorable celebrations, such as the University’s 125th anniversary and exceeding the $100 million goal of the Forever Carroll Campaign, as well as the increased attendance of alumni at events throughout the world. It is clear that support for Carroll is stronger than ever.
SETTING the STAGE SETTING the STAGE 4 LIVING THE MISSION
In 2005, at his inauguration as the 24th president of John Carroll University, Rev. Robert L. Niehoff, S.J., challenged the Carroll community to engage the world more deeply. This was an integral principle that guided his leadership for 12 years. He encouraged members of the JCU community to pursue diversity, peace, justice, and the Kingdom of God by opening themselves wholeheartedly to others, especially those on the margins of society. Fr. Niehoff worked tirelessly to ensure Carroll has become a vehicle of change for our students, Northeast Ohio, and the world. Fr. Niehoff directed the campus community to establish a vision, mission, core values statement, and strategic initiative anchored in Jesuit Catholic traditions that emphasize a rigorous approach to scholarship and inspire excellence in learning, leadership, and service. This was realized further in the University’s latest strategic plan, “Promise and Prominence,” which emphasizes that learning – in and out of the classroom – must build not only on
intellect character leadership service , but
,
, and
.
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REV. ROBERT NIEHOFF S.J.
Fr. Niehoff challenged the University to create a Catholicity statement to define the campus environment as one in which Jesuit traditions and Catholic culture profoundly and creatively influence the community’s inclusive search for wisdom and understanding. This culture forms the whole person – intellectually, spiritually, and socially. Facilitated by Rev. Howard Gray, S.J., the University developed the statement reaffirming JCU’s Jesuit Catholic identity while welcoming people of all faiths and no faith.
SETTING the STAGE 6 LIVING THE MISSION
This foundation has enabled JCU to focus its efforts on three main goals: academic excellence for student learning and success, faith that does justice, and engaging the campus community. Carroll students graduate with the knowledge and sensitivity that their personal and collective choices can build a more just world.
"Fr. Niehoff’s dedication and leadership of JCU for the past 12 years has been inspiring. In fact, as the institution hit harder to ensure success. We’re lucky to have had Fr. Niehoff, and I’m better for knowing him. I thank him for My tenure on the Board will come to an end with only serving one extraordinary president.” — Dan Frate ’83, member of JCU’s Board of Directors
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recruiting me to the Board.
SETTING the STAGE
rough patches, he worked even
SETTING the STAGE
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LIVING THE MISSION
SETTING the STAGE 9
LIVING THE MISSION
EDUCATING the WHOLE PERSON 10
EDUCATING the WHOLE PERSON
LIVING THE MISSION
Fr. Niehoff championed meaningful work with one goal in mind – transforming the lives of students through integrated education. He was committed to making a John Carroll education accessible to more people. His love and support of students has been evident in the scholarships and programs he created, as well as his time spent with students on retreats. He renewed JCU’s commitment to the Jesuit philosophy of , care for the whole person –
cura personalis
mind body spirit ,
, and
.
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— Fr. Niehoff
REV. ROBERT NIEHOFF S.J.
I am frequently thanked for things that I had nothing to do with. The impact of our students’ service is felt and appreciated deeply by the community – from local schools and soup kitchens to Catholic charities and prisons.”
EDUCATING the WHOLE PERSON
Fr. Niehoff invited the Carroll community to think of service as a human obligation – that all are called to make a difference in the world. He realized that this obligation is felt most deeply when people are touched by direct experience. This led to the creation of the Center for Service and Social Action (CSSA) as a hub for service-learning on campus. CSSA develops service programs that build mutually beneficial relationships, create learning opportunities, encourage reflection and active citizenship, and nourish spirituality. More than 140 service opportunities, often connected to academic courses, are available weekly. Last academic year, more than 2,000 students performed more than 135,000 hours of service, exemplifying how service-learning permeates campus life.
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The Arrupe Scholars Program, a mission-based scholarship and learning opportunity that creates social action leaders, has strengthened the University’s focus on the study of inequality. The program is rooted in the Jesuit wisdom that faith does justice. Graduates of the program truly become men and women for and with others, continuing the John Carroll legacy of service.
0% Pell Gap. In 2015, JCU was
one of 36
schools nationally, and the only
one in Ohio, to have no gap in the graduation rate between Pell Grant and non-Pell Grant students.
EDUCATING the WHOLE PERSON
We wish more students knew how hard Fr. Niehoff worked to ensure that JCU was an inclusive and affordable place for all students. He has left a lasting legacy in our lives. We consider Father a lifelong friend and are so fortunate to have attended JCU during his tenure."
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— Justin ’07 and Liliana (Morales) ’07, ’12G Scales
While they were students, Justin ’07 and Liliana (Morales) ’07, ’12G Scales inspired Fr. Niehoff to establish the John Carroll Access Initiative. This initiative, which is aligned with JCU’s mission to be aware of those who face significant challenges, tries to eliminate family income as a barrier to students considering a John Carroll education. It provides funding and support to help federal Pell recipients adjust to campus and graduate on time. More than 250 students who have been part of the initiative have graduated from JCU since 2009.
EDUCATING the WHOLE PERSON 14 LIVING THE MISSION
Working with the Mayor of Cleveland, Frank Jackson, John Carroll partnered with the Cleveland Metropolitan School District to ensure its students had a pathway to college. The University, led by Fr. Niehoff, has been a committed member of the program, called the Higher Education Compact of Greater Cleveland, since its inception.
John Carroll’s integrated core curriculum focuses on high-level transferable skills – communication, evidence-based reasoning, and problem solving – as well as a liberal arts approach rooted in Jesuit principles of social justice, ethics, philosophy, and religious studies. This educational experience challenges students to think critically and ethically, communicate skillfully, and analyze strategically. Carroll graduates are well prepared to “go forth and set the world on fire.”
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EDUCATING the WHOLE PERSON
go forth and set the world on fire
Fr. Niehoff ’s love and support of students was evident as he celebrated Sunday evening Mass with them and led them on retreats. Fr. Niehoff, who always looked forward to praying with students, emphasized that liturgy and prayer give life to students and challenge them to live their faith more deeply. EDUCATING the WHOLE PERSON 16 LIVING THE MISSION
just one or two highlights that we’ll remember as next assignment. This is a man whose life gives life to the phrase 'men and women for others.'” — George (M.D.) and Terri Lewandowski ’78
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REV. ROBERT NIEHOFF S.J.
Fr. Niehoff moves to his
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It’s impossible to select
CREATING the OPPORTUNITIES 18
CREATING the OPPORTUNITIES Fr. Niehoff ’s vision for a more
global and engaging
John Carroll education has come to life through new faculty, meaningful
LIVING THE MISSION
community partnerships, and programs that have created experiential learning opportunities. These experiences enrich academic life and prepare students not only for their careers but for life as servant leaders.
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REV. ROBERT NIEHOFF S.J.
Fr. Niehoff strengthened academics at Carroll by hiring new faculty, endowed chairs, three deans, and two provosts who reaffirm the Jesuit Catholic approach to education through ethical servant leadership. Ed Hahnenberg, Ph.D., the Jack and Mary Jane Breen Chair in Catholic Systematic Theology in the College of Arts and Sciences, is an example. Fr. Niehoff also solidified the administration by hiring nine vice presidents.
CREATING the OPPORTUNITIES 20 LIVING THE MISSION
Fr. Niehoff enhanced academic life with new programs such as healthcare information technology and sports studies. Healthcare information technology majors learn and hone software development skills applicable in any professional environment as well as the healthcare IT field specifically. Students have built valuable connections through internships at prestigious organizations, including the Cleveland Clinic and MetroHealth System. Through the Mike Cleary Program in Sports Studies, students develop the knowledge and abilities needed to become leaders in athletic-related careers, as exemplified by the numerous alumni in NFL front offices. The program mirrors alumni achievements in sports-related careers in management, coaching, and recreation administration.
Fr. Niehoff recognized the need to honor John Carroll alumni-veterans who were called to serve their country in World War II and the Vietnam War and therefore were unable to finish their degrees at JCU. Fr. Niehoff found a way to use their Military Service credits to award them Bachelor of Humane Letters (honorary) degrees from Carroll. The University invited them to receive their degrees and attend Mass with their families.
CREATING the OPPORTUNITIES 21 LIVING THE MISSION
Fr. Niehoff ’s desire for students to reach their ultimate career goals has resulted in partnerships with other colleges and universities. In medicine, students benefit from early acceptance programs with the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine and Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, as well as similar programs with Ursuline College and Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) for nursing, CWRU and the University of Detroit Mercy for engineering, and CWRU for law. The University of Notre Dame reserves two seats for Carroll students in its Engineering, Science, Technology, and Entrepreneurship Excellence Master’s programs.
CREATING the OPPORTUNITIES 22
As a result of Fr. Niehoff ’s relationship with the family of Tim Russert ’72, John Carroll established the NBC/John Carroll University “Meet The Press” Fellowship. The nine-month fellowship, which is awarded to a graduating senior pursuing a career in political journalism, is an opportunity exclusive to John Carroll students. All fellows have been offered positions with NBC after completing their fellowship. As a tribute to Russert’s legacy, the University renamed the Department of Communication and Theatre Arts in his honor.
LIVING THE MISSION
Since Fr. Niehoff arrived at JCU, I’ve been impressed with the humble and selfless way he has conducted himself in good and challenging times. While he regularly and proudly brags about the good work we do for others within and beyond the University, I’ve never heard him take any credit for his own contributions, which most likely stems from his deep commitment to the Jesuit motto ad majorem Dei gloriam.” ——Jim JimLissemore, Lissemore,Ph.D., Ph.D.,biology biologyprofessor professor
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BEAUTIFYING the CAMPUS 24
BEAUTIFYING the CAMPUS
LIVING THE MISSION
As part of nurturing an engaged and respectful community, Fr. Niehoff developed a more welcoming culture in which students, faculty, and staff live, learn, work, and play. He created a more environmentally friendly campus, one that honors tradition and has been beautified through landmarks and renovations. For many students, the picturesque campus has become the door to the world.
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REV. ROBERT NIEHOFF S.J.
Former JCU Board members Al DeGulis ’56 and Sam Miller donated two historic stained glass windows from the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland. The windows, which depict Saint Ignatius of Loyola and Saint Francis Xavier, were restored and are on display in the O’Connell Reading Room in the Dolan Center for Science and Technology.
BEAUTIFYING the CAMPUS 26 LIVING THE MISSION
In keeping a promise to Dick Hamlin ’49, the three-acre Hamlin Quad was developed to further enhance reflective green space on campus and support student recreation. The sustainable project also included the development of the Carroll Lot, which added 200 parking spaces to campus.
BEAUTIFYING the CAMPUS 27 LIVING THE MISSION
The renovation of Fairmount Plaza, which included a new patio for outside dining and the renaming of the University’s address to 1 John Carroll Boulevard, livened and enhanced the entrance to campus on Fairmount Circle.
BEAUTIFYING the CAMPUS 28
Honoring the past and helping beautify campus, the Class of 1956 Memorial Fountain project was led by Al DeGulis. He and his fellow classmates, including Board members emeriti Jack Breen and the late John Boler, raised money to complete the project, which was dedicated by Fr. Niehoff.
LIVING THE MISSION
BEAUTIFYING the CAMPUS 29 LIVING THE MISSION
Murphy Hall, the largest residence hall on campus with 311 beds, was renovated and awarded LEED Silver certification. Redesigned space provides multiple living options for students, including suites and double rooms. The hall – which includes dedicated study areas, improved accessibility, and modern gathering spaces – helps the University compete more effectively for prospective students and provides an outstanding student experience. Murphy Hall is one of seven buildings in the University’s North Quad Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
BEAUTIFYING the CAMPUS
The purchase of Temple Emanu El, now called the Green Road Annex, in University Heights, enables the University to serve students better by providing additional parking and office space. Additionally, homes near campus have been purchased to allow for expansion and development.
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I’ve enjoyed knowing and working with Fr. Niehoff during the past 12 years. He has truly been a guiding light and source of leadership as the University has gone through some trying times. We’ve been lucky to have him as our president.” — Jim Mackey ’71
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REV. ROBERT NIEHOFF S.J.
As a symbol of John Carroll’s heritage, the Saint Ignatius of Loyola Plaza – which was designed by Berj Shakarian, the father of Melanie Shakarian ’00 and father-in-law of English professor Peter Kvidera – provides a setting for reflection and community. The plaza, which creates a University landmark, respects and enhances the existing Saint Ignatius monument, a gift from the Class of 1962 on the occasion of their 35th reunion. More than 1,400 alumni and parents bought pavers to recognize members of the JCU community. The plaza, which features a Latin cross configuration, was dedicated during a Homecoming and Family Weekend.
CELEBRATING the MILESTONES CELEBRATING the MILESTONES 32
As the University’s mission and core values began to take shape and the strategic plan unfolded, the Carroll community was able to see results of these initiatives. Some of these results occurred in the form of milestones – traditional, institutional, athletic, religious, and philanthropic – that Fr. Niehoff celebrated with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends. These celebrations presented opportunities for the community to reflect on the institution’s Jesuit heritage while thinking about the future.
LIVING THE MISSION
In October 2006, the University was honored to host Rev. Peter-Hans Kolvenbach, S.J., the late superior general of the Society of Jesus, during his visit to the United States and the Detroit Province. Fr. Niehoff and the Jesuit community welcomed the Father General to campus, where members of JCU’s Board of Directors were joined by board members from other Jesuit apostolates in the province and JCU faculty and staff, to meet and hear from Fr. Kolvenbach. In October 2007, Fr. Niehoff celebrated Mass in the chapel at the Church of the Gesu to honor the 25th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood. A reception in the Dolan Center for Science and Technology followed.
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REV. ROBERT NIEHOFF S.J.
Philanthropy
The Saint John’s Bible, the first handwritten and hand-illuminated bible in 500 years, debuted on campus in the Grasselli Library in April 2008. It was the first opportunity to view original pages from the historic manuscript. An identical bible was presented to Pope Benedict XVI. The seven-volume bible is a gift in honor of John Pellegrene ’58, a retired Target Corporation executive vice president. CELEBRATING the MILESTONES 34 LIVING THE MISSION
In December 2009, after thoughtful contemplation, planning, and discussion – and in honor of the University’s upcoming 125th anniversary – John Carroll launched the quiet phase of the Forever Carroll Campaign. Its theme was “Inspiring Minds. Transforming Lives.” It was a bold decision to launch a campaign during an economic recession. But seven years later, alumni and friends surpassed the $100 million goal, raising more than $104 million to invest in students, enrich the academic experience, build on the University’s Jesuit heritage, and enhance the student experience.
In April 2011, Fr. Niehoff established a diversity steering committee, charging it to set institutional goals, monitor and assess progress in attaining those goals, offer guidance to campus, and examine models to create the Office for Institutional Diversity and Inclusion. Terry Mills, Ph.D., who was hired as JCU’s first chief diversity officer, oversees the office, which is committed to creating a campus culture in which our differences are explored openly and respectfully. CELEBRATING the MILESTONES 35 LIVING THE MISSION
John Carroll celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2011 with a yearlong series of events, including anniversary-themed Ignatian Heritage Week, Celebration of Scholarship, alumni immersion trips, Founders’ Day, and a gala to close out the year. That year, the JCU community reflected on many of the University’s achievements and its Jesuit Catholic tradition of excellence.
CELEBRATING the MILESTONES 36
In August 2012, the football team traveled to Dublin, Ireland, to play St. Norbert College from Wisconsin at Donnybrook Stadium. The trip, which was partially funded by alumni, presented an enriching opportunity few schools had and included memorable experiences. Fr. Niehoff celebrated a special Mass at Newman University Church. Dan Rooney, the late U.S. Ambassador to Ireland and chairman emeritus of the Pittsburgh Steelers, greeted players. And a reception, which was sponsored by Frank ’63 and Judy Grace, was held at The National Concert Hall.
LIVING THE MISSION
"I believe that I found my true self at John Carroll, and finding myself allowed me to discover what truly brings me joy: working with students and fighting CELEBRATING the MILESTONES
for justice. I am a very different person today than I was four years ago." — Marina Giannirakis '17
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On a deeply moving and spiritual trip in November 2014, Fr. Niehoff celebrated the 25th anniversary of Jesuit martyrs and their companions in El Salvador. The heart-wrenching event invigorated the Jesuits’ commitment to global justice, particularly for Jesuit colleges and universities in the United States. For those who traveled with Fr. Niehoff, the experience was life altering and deepened their commitment to advancing faith that does justice.
CELEBRATING the MILESTONES
Fr. Niehoff traveled to Washington, D.C., in September 2015 to join the crowd that welcomed Pope Francis to the United States and watch the pope’s address to Congress from the South Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. The event was a culminating experience of Fr. Niehoff ’s life.
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The Ohio Athletic Conference All-Sports Trophy returned to campus in December 2015 for the fifth time overall and first time since the 2003-04 season. JCU won OAC titles in men’s soccer and tennis. Additionally, the Blue Streaks placed second in football, cross country, and indoor track and field. Carroll tied for second in men’s basketball and baseball.
In May 2016, Fr. Niehoff became the longest-serving president of John Carroll, stabilizing leadership and directing a consistent global vision for the University.
CELEBRATING our MILESTONES 39 LIVING THE MISSION
In November 2016, the football team defeated Mount Union for the first time in 27 years and received national recognition for the accomplishment. Fr. Niehoff shared in the exhilarating victory with players, coaches, alumni, and students. The game was part of one of the most successful seasons in the program’s history, as it reached the semifinal round of the NCAA tournament. The entire team was named Collegiate Athlete of the Year at the 17th Annual Greater Cleveland Sports Awards ceremony.
CELEBRATING the MILESTONES 40
I really hate to see Fr. Niehoff leave. I appreciate
LIVING THE MISSION
the outstanding job he has done for JCU during the past 12 years, which, I might add, have been most difficult. I thank him so much for everything he has accomplished.” — Joe Sullivan ’53
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REV. ROBERT NIEHOFF S.J.
In the summer of 2017, John Carroll hosted the World Union of Jesuit Alumni (WUJA) Congress, which was the first WUJA Congress to be held in the United States. The event brought together current and former students and friends of Jesuit schools and universities throughout the world to build international relationships, contribute to and enhance the mission of the Society of Jesus, and promote Jesuit education.
ELEVATING the REPUTATION 42
E L E VA T I N G the R E P U TA T I O N
LIVING THE MISSION
Fr. Niehoff leaves John Carroll having helped reaffirm its promise to students and overall prominence. What he espoused during his inauguration is happening: A more diverse and engaging Carroll is responding to the needs of the world more skillfully. Thanks to his leadership, the institution is becoming better known nationally. The 2017 “Best Colleges” edition of U.S. News & World Report ranks JCU seventh among universities in the Midwest offering master’s programs. This marks the 28th consecutive year the University has been named one of the top 10 regional institutions.
EVALUATING the REPUTATION
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LIVING THE MISSION
Ranked No.
1
in the nation for preparing Boler School of Business students for jobs in the Best Undergraduate Business Schools employer survey – BSOB also ranks 30th overall in the country ELEVATING the REPUTATION 44
(Bloomberg Businessweek)
Ranked No.
2
for a strong commitment to
Ranked No.
7
undergraduate teaching (U.S. News & World Report)
LIVING THE MISSION
in the Great Schools at Great Prices category (U.S. News & World Report)
Ranked
No. 7
in the Midwest in the Best Colleges for Veterans category (U.S. News & World Report)
Consistently named to the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor
Roll, which is the highest federal recognition a
college or university can receive for its commitment to volunteering, service-learning, and civic engagement.
ELEVATING the REPUTATION
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ELEVATING the REPUTATION
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desire to strengthen the
University for future generations, you have accomplished to help put us on this path."
— Rev. Robert L. Niehoff, S.J.
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and I am grateful for all
ELEVATING the REPUTATION
I know you join me in our
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REV. ROBERT NIEHOFF S.J.