Lewis University Statement
Lewis University and St. Augustine College Complete First Step of Merger
With approval of the the Illinois Board of Higher Education, and the Higher Learning Commission, St. Augustine College has now joined Lewis University as of December 1, 2023.
This exciting step forward brings together two historically significant institutions and maximizes their ability to advance educational opportunities connected to the most in-demand careers of the future.
From its humble beginnings in 1932, when fifteen students enrolled in an aviation focused curriculum, to now becoming the eighth largest, private, not-for-profit university, in Illinois, Lewis University has been a leader in integrating liberal arts with professional preparation. St. Augustine College, established in 1980, was the first bilingual institution in the Midwest creating a welcoming environment for Hispanic students in Chicago to enroll and achieve in college.Today, St. Augustine serves both Hispanic and other under-represented groups, graduating students in high-demand majors such as Respiratory Therapy and Early Childhood Education.
"This affiliation was possible because two institutions, fully aligned in their mission of serving students, are becoming stronger together", said Dr. David Livingston, president of Lewis University.
"St. Augustine College has always reached out to students often overlooked by traditional higher education. The expanded opportunities our affiliation with Lewis University will present will be transformational to entire families in the Chicago area", said Dr. Reyes Gonzalez, president of St. Augustine College.
The final step of the process will occur following formal approval by the U.S. Department of Education. Until that final step occurs, Lewis and St. Augustine will actively partner while maintaining their separate and independent accreditations and degree-granting authority.
"In a future that will require increased levels of training and education for success, we can serve as a model for all of higher education that through collaboration, rather than competition, students will be the ultimate beneficiaries", concluded Dr. Livingston.
Share ➤
