FranU’s Top Moments of 2025

2025 was a special year full of milestones, achievements and exciting moments for the FranU community. As we look ahead to 2026, let’s look back at some of the highlights that made 2025 a year to remember.

17. Snow Day of 2025  

Snow days are almost unheard of in Louisiana, which made January 21 a day to remember. After a rare winter storm moved through Baton Rouge, campus closed and students, faculty and staff enjoyed a chilly break. Throughout the day, photos poured in of snow-covered yards, bundled-up pets and students enjoying time with family.

It was unexpected, a little surreal and something people were still talking about weeks later. For a little while, classes paused and everyone shared the view of Louisiana covered in snow.

 

16. Bee Colony on Campus  

The campus was buzzing when a colony of bees was discovered on a tree near St. Francis Hall. With the assistance of a local beekeeper, the bees were safely relocated, offering a special opportunity to learn the meaning of their arrival.

We are thankful for our own FranU colony who noticed and helped, and for the way something small brought everyone together to celebrate life and the environment around us.

 

15. Thanksgiving Meals  

Instead of the traditional Turkey Bowl, FranU’s Student Government Association provided 53 Thanksgiving meal kits to students in need. The initiative offered thoughtful support and care during the holiday season. It showed the generosity and heart of FranU students and staff and showcased what it means to serve others.

 

14. Renovations Began on the Health Professions Building 

Renovations on the Health Professions Building were underway as Dr. Bellar, Dean Jeffrey Thompson, Wally and more toured the site in hard hats. After a long, worthwhile process, the University celebrated its completion in early January with a ribbon-cutting ceremony where the community gathered to take a look into the newly renovated building. Students can now enjoy an updated model with modern classrooms, innovative research labs and collaborative spaces designed to enhance learning and growth.

 

13. Board Members Recognized  

Board of Trustee members Leo Hamilton and Laura C. Poché were honored for their exceptional contributions in November. Hamilton received the 2025 Golden Deeds Award and Poché was named Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser.

Their leadership and service continue to inspire FranU and the broader community.

 

12. First Alumni Spirit Tasting  

FranU hosted the first-ever Alumni Spirit Tasting at Sugarfield Spirits. Alumni reconnected with classmates and met Dr. Bellar while enjoying a night of fun and fellowship.

The event highlighted the lasting bonds among alumni and the FranU community, creating new memories that will carry forward for years to come.

 

11. BBA Program Ranked Top Program 

FranU’s Online Bachelor of Business Administration program earned the number two spot in Louisiana. This ranking reflects the program’s quality, faculty excellence and the success of students after graduation.

This is a testament to the faculty who provide guidance and mentorship every day. Their efforts help students reach their goals and become true Franciscan servant leaders.

 

10. One Button Media Studios 

In October, One Button Media Studios opened in St. Francis Hall, giving students and faculty an easy way to produce professional-quality videos and presentations on campus with just the click of a button.

The new studios provide a simple tool to fuel creativity and communication across disciplines, enabling users to share knowledge and ideas with confidence.

 

9. FranU + BRYC Partnership  

FranU strengthened its connection to the Baton Rouge community through a new partnership with the Baton Rouge Youth Coalition (BRYC). The Memorandum of Understanding was signed in St. Francis Hall and created a direct-entry pathway for BRYC Fellows to continue their education at FranU after graduating high school.  

This collaboration reflects a shared goal of expanding educational opportunities and supporting students as they take their next steps. For many future students, it opened the door to seeing FranU as a place where they belong.

 

8. FranU All in Campaign Had 85% Participation, Highest Yet

Faculty and staff showed their loyalty to FranU with a record-breaking 85 percent participation in the All In Employee Giving Campaign. Contributions were directed toward student scholarships, demonstrating the FranU community’s commitment to furthering its students’ education.

We are grateful to every person who gave. Your generosity proves how much we can accomplish when we come together for students.

 

7. NetVUE Grant for Vocational Discernment

FranU received a $12,000 grant from NetVUE in March to support the Empowering Futures Project, a six-week vocational discernment program aimed at helping students discover their calling in life.

The project focused on meaningful conversations about calling and growth, staying true to FranU’s mission of forming the whole person. It was a reminder that education at FranU is not only about preparing for a job, but about leading students to understand who they are called to be.

 

6. Title III Grant 

FranU received a $2.2 million Title III Strengthening Grant from the U.S. Department of Education to fund Project FRANCIS, a program designed to support student success through a variety of academic and personal initiatives. 

This grant will allow FranU to expand opportunities and services that allow students to thrive throughout their education.

 

5. PA Program Granted Accreditation  

The Physician Assistant Program earned Accreditation-Continued status, confirming the program’s quality and commitment to student success.

This milestone recognizes the effort of faculty, staff and students who maintain high standards and prepare graduates to meet the needs of patients and communities.

 

4. Fête de Fidèles Raised $100,000  

Because of you, FranU’s annual Fête de Fidèles raised $100,000 for student scholarships. The event celebrated the community coming together for our students. It was a meaningful night, and a reminder of how much impact a caring and generous community can have.

 

3. FranU Nursing Program of the Year  

Our Graduate Nursing Program earned the Nightingale Award for Nursing School of the Year, recognizing the dedication of faculty, staff and students in advancing the profession of nursing.

This honor demonstrates the commitment of everyone involved in preparing compassionate, skilled nurses ready to serve their communities.

 

2. Holland’s Homestretch 

FranU celebrated Dr. Tina Holland during Holland’s Homestretch, a baseball-themed week honoring her retirement. Events of the week included T-shirt giveaways, trivia, mass and a Wall of Fame filled with heartfelt notes from students, faculty and staff.

Thank you, Dr. Holland, for your years of leadership and for the people who made this celebration so special. It was a joyful way for everyone to say thank you and honor her lasting impact.

 

1. Dr. David Bellar Named FranU’s Fifth President 

In February, FranU announced Dr. David Bellar as the University’s fifth president. The news marked an important moment of transition and excitement for the campus community.

Dr. Bellar officially stepped into the role July 14 and has spent his first months getting to know FranU. His early days as president have focused on listening, learning and building relationships. His leadership marks an exciting chapter in FranU’s story.