Brooklyn, New York – St. Francis College has officially launched its Graduate School of Advanced Studies, marking a transformative milestone in the institution’s proud history. Rooted in Franciscan values and driven by a global vision, the new graduate school reflects St. Francis College’s commitment to innovation, diversity, and world-class education for students worldwide.
A Vision Built on Growth and Innovation
Speaking at the launch event,President Tim Cecere shared the institution’s inspiring journey.
“The Graduate School is built on the foundation of our Franciscan values and our Brooklyn heritage,” said President Cecere. “When I joined three years ago, we had only 30 graduate students. Today, we proudly serve over 3,000. That’s a testament to our vision, resources, and the dedication of our people.”
He emphasized that the new Graduate School represents more than expansion; it’s a reinvention of what higher education can be in a digital, globally connected world. “We’ve captured everything that makes St. Francis special and evolved it for the modern student experience,” President Cecere added.
Academic Roots and Global Growth
Dr. Gale Gayle, Vice President of Academic Affairs for Graduate Education, reflected on how the school has grown over two decades from a single master’s program in Professional Accountancy in 2005 to a thriving portfolio including:
- M.A. in Psychology
- M.F.A. in Creative Writing
- M.S. in Management
- M.S. in Information Technology
- M.S. in Computer Science
- M.S. in Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure Protection
“In just the past three years, St. Francis has graduated over 1,600 master’s students,” Dr. Gayle noted. “Our growth reflects both the demand for advanced learning and the power of collaboration.”
She also highlighted the importance of partnerships in expanding global reach:
“Our extended partners, like University Hub, Euphini, and Intragrad, have been instrumental in helping us reach international students and extend opportunities beyond Brooklyn.”
Through these strategic collaborations, the St. Francis Graduate School of Advanced Studies is making its programs accessible to a broader global audience, enabling more students to benefit from the college’s values-driven education.
Student Voices: Global Dreams, Local Roots
Representing the student community, Ms. Nooreen Fathima, an international student from India, shared her inspiring perspective:
“As an international student, St. Francis has given me not just an education, but a family. We’ve grown from 30 students to a vibrant global community of thousands. This launch isn’t just about numbers, it’s about dreams and opportunities.”
Fathima, who serves in the Graduate Student Association, emphasized the school’s mission to celebrate diversity and unity:
“We’re here to connect people, celebrate cultures, and make sure every voice is heard. Together, we’ll make this Graduate School of Advanced Studies unforgettable.”
Looking Ahead: A Future Built on Legacy
The St. Francis Graduate School of Advanced Studies stands as a symbol of transformation, bridging Brooklyn’s rich academic tradition with global educational innovation. From its humble beginnings to its thriving graduate community, the school represents resilience, inclusivity, and an unwavering commitment to student success.
Through partnerships with University Hub, St. Francis continues to extend its reach to international students seeking high-quality U.S. education pathways, advanced graduate programs, and a supportive learning environment rooted in Franciscan values.
Final Thought
Just as a tree grows in Brooklyn strong, adaptable, and reaching for the sky, so too does St. Francis College’s Graduate School of Advanced Studies grow to shape future leaders who will carry forward its spirit of learning, service, and excellence.
