Posted April 29, 2016

Cabrini College in Radnor will officially become Cabrini University this July 1, president Donald B. Taylor announced April 27.

The Pennsylvania Department of Education recently approved the application Cabrini submitted earlier this year.

“The name change reflects the growth and success that this institution has seen since it was established nearly 60 years ago,” Taylor said. “While the change to Cabrini University represents our broader academic offerings and expanded reach, we continue our strong tradition of student support and human rights advocacy.”

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To be granted university status in Pennsylvania, an institution must offer at least five advanced degrees or professional programs at the graduate level in addition to programs in the arts and sciences at the undergraduate level.

It also must have a foundation in the arts and sciences, which is instilled in the philosophy and implementation of the institution’s education curriculum.

Cabrini has awarded graduate degrees since the mid-1980s and continues to identify new programs to meet market demand. The institution offers Master of Education programs, as well as a Master of Accounting, Master of Science in Leadership, Master of Arts in Religious and Pastoral Studies, and Master of Science in Biological Sciences.

Beginning this May, Cabrini will welcome its first doctoral candidates in two new doctoral programs: organizational development (PhD/DBA) and educational leadership (EdD).

“We aren’t only expanding our programs, we’re expanding our outreach to international students while also making a Cabrini education accessible to all learners,” said Jeff Gingerich, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “We create pathways for motivated students and work with each individual to help ensure his or her success here.”

Founded in 1957 by the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Cabrini currently enrolls approximately 1,300 undergraduates in more than 30 majors, pre-professional programs, concentrations and minors on its 112-acre campus in Radnor.

The college also enrolls 900 students in graduate and professional studies programs at its main campus and at five off-campus locations.

Cabrini focuses on academic excellence, leadership development and a commitment to social justice.

“I’m proud that I will be one of the first graduates with Cabrini University on my diploma,” said Jill Nawoyski, a digital communication and social media major. “I’ve accomplished a lot since my first year here — there will be a lot to celebrate as I begin my senior year this fall.”

When students return to campus for the new school year this August, Cabrini University will celebrate with a town hall meeting with the president and university-wide events with students, faculty, staff, alumni and guests.