On November 19, CBS News highlighted St. Catherine University's support of student parents in a feature about the FamilyU Seal.
St. Catherine University has been chosen as an inaugural recipient of Generation Hope’s , a national certification recognizing higher education institutions and nonprofit organizations for their work supporting student parents. The FamilyU Seal program celebrates institutions serving parenting students and aims to inspire others to invest in student parent success.
St. Kate’s was one of 13 institutions selected by a team of reviewers from a competitive field of candidates. The reviewers considered data, policies, people practices, and overall culture while evaluating institutions’ commitment to student parents.
The Access and Success office at St. Kate’s has supported pregnant and parenting students since 1993. The office connects students with resources including childcare, housing, food, transportation, and medical care, while also offering confidential support for pregnant and parenting students at all degree levels.
Nationally, more than 1 in 5 college students are parenting while pursuing postsecondary credentials. Through avenues like Access and Success, St. Kate’s works to ensure these families are welcomed, valued, and supported.
“Receiving the FamilyU Seal designation is a wonderful accompaniment to the Access and Success office’s celebration of our 30th year supporting pregnant and parenting students,” said Beth Hamer, director of Access and Success. “I want to express gratitude to all the student parents who welcome our staff into their lives as they pursue their college degrees, shaping Access and Success and St. Kate's to be more student-parent centered.”
To celebrate the 30th anniversary of Access and Success, student parent alumni are invited to leave a message on the .
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