Lisa McClain, M.A., director of Campus Ministry at Xavier University of Louisiana, recently attended the 2024 Annual Association of Student Affairs at Catholic Colleges and Universities (ASACCU) Conference.  Themed “Rooted in Mission. Growing with Purpose," the event was held at Villanova University in Pennsylvania. The conference emphasized integrating the Catholic mission into each aspect of higher education, ensuring a holistic approach to education and student affairs.

The Association of Student Affairs at Catholic Colleges and Universities (ASACCU) was established in 1999 by a dedicated group of Student Affairs practitioners in Catholic higher education. Their goal was to foster community and enhance communication among student affairs professionals working in higher education. Xavier University of Louisiana was the only historically Black college in attendance at the conference, highlighting its commitment to its foundation as a Catholic institution and its role in the broader academic community. Still the only Catholic HBCU in the nation, Xavier was founded nearly 100 years ago by St. Katharine Drexel and her Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament. 

The conference provided a unique platform for McClain to deepen her understanding and commitment to the ideals of Catholic education. Throughout the conference, Lisa was encouraged to live out the  “Rooted in Mission. Growing with Purpose" theme, apply what she learned, and strive for personal and professional growth. This experience was invaluable for her, offering numerous opportunities to network, discuss best practices, and collaborate with various university departments and divisions.

While in Pennsylvania, McClain made a special visit to Philadelphia, where the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, a religious order founded by St. Katharine Drexel, is based. McClain was warmly welcomed with compassion and love by the Sisters. The life-changing visit reinforced her dedication to Xavier’s mission and students and provided her with inspiration and insight to bring back to her work at the university.  

“The compassion and wisdom I experienced from the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament have profoundly impacted me,” shared McClain “Their dedication to service and faith will undoubtedly help me become a better Campus Ministry Director.”

This enriching experience will undoubtedly enhance McClain’s ability to serve and lead at Xavier University, furthering her commitment to fostering a vibrant, spiritual, and mission-driven campus community.