During the planning process, each university’s leadership and board of trustees remain responsible for its institutional decisions, working closely with its sponsoring congregation: the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters for Alvernia and the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes for Marian. Faculty and other campus groups will provide input on matters within their areas of responsibility, consistent with each university’s shared governance practices. The proposed transaction is subject to further discussions and reviews, as well as required institutional, canonical, regulatory and accrediting approvals. Important updates will be communicated to both campus communities.

Catholic higher education is entering a new era. Many religious congregations that founded our colleges are asking how to ensure their mission endures beyond their own ministries. We believe the future belongs to Catholic universities that choose to work together, joining forces around a shared mission rather than competing alone.

Alvernia intends to help lead that future. Alvernia and Marian share commitments to student success, access, service and values-driven education. The proposed combination seeks to strengthen those commitments while honoring each university’s identity, community and traditions. The proposed transfer of Marian’s sponsorship from the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes to the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters is central to that effort. Together, the universities and congregations aim to sustain Marian’s Catholic mission and expand opportunities for the students and communities they serve.