The University of St. Francis has long been a cornerstone of higher education in Joliet, and under President Dr. Ryan C. Hendrickson, its Franciscan mission feels more connected to the community than ever.
Dr. Hendrickson’s journey to USF was shaped by a deep Catholic formation, from studying under Benedictine monks in his Nebraska high school to the Jesuit influence of his years at Marquette University. Those traditions of reflection, service, and discernment align naturally with USF’s Franciscan values of respect, integrity, service, and compassion.
“Those values aren’t just words here,” Dr. Hendrickson says. “They’re lived every day on and off campus.”
That sense of mission is visible throughout the university’s Joliet campus, located in the historic Cathedral Area. With its peaceful quad, prominent images of St. Francis and St. Clare, and a culture rooted in care and belonging, USF offers an environment students frequently cite as a deciding factor in choosing the university.
Strong community partnerships are central to the USF experience. Collaborations with local schools and hospitals provide hands-on opportunities through student teaching, clinical rotations, and service-based learning. Partnerships with local Dioceses also create accessible pathways for students from Catholic high schools to pursue higher education close to home.
USF’s student body reflects the diversity of the surrounding community, with approximately 36% identifying as Hispanic and more than half being first-generation college students. The university’s involvement in Joliet’s Mexican Independence Day Parade underscored its commitment to cultural connection and civic pride.
One of USF’s most meaningful traditions is the Caritas Scholarship Celebration, which raises critical scholarship funds while strengthening ties with local partners.
Looking ahead, Dr. Hendrickson envisions expanded academic offerings, continued enrollment growth, and a deeper commitment to service, ensuring graduates leave prepared to lead with purpose and give back to the community they call home.