Innovation in Catholic Education on Display at Advisory Council Meeting

The Catholic Foundation Advisory Council members were treated to a compelling discussion about innovation in Catholic education at their annual meeting.

Fr. Michael Forge, pastor of Mary Immaculate Catholic Church and School, Chris Rebuck, president of Bishop Lynch High School; and Dr. Thomas Hibbs, incoming president at The University of Dallas spoke about new and exceptional examples of innovative practices taking shape at their respective schools. 

During the panel, moderated by Foundation Vice President of Development Cheryl Mansour, the speakers shared opinions on topics ranging from student life, the moral and intellectual formation of students, technology and the type of cultural skills needed for students to be successful in life.

K to 8
Representing the kindergarten through elementary school level, Fr. Forge talked about the planned introduction of members of the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia (also known as the Nashville Dominicans) at the school this coming school year to help solidify and enhance the Catholic identify of the school.

In August, the school – past recipient of a National Blue Ribbons School award – will be led by a Dominican sister as principal and another as an instructor, joining the rest of the teachers and administrative staff for the school in Farmers Branch.

HIGH SCHOOL
Bishop Lynch High School President Chris Rebuck described the new house system that will be introduced on campus when the fall semester begins. 

The dynamic structure of eight groups of students and educators with designated mentors within the framework of the high school will help promote the development of the total person and increase mentorship, pastoral care and student leadership opportunities for the school’s more than 1,150 students.

COLLEGE
Dr. Thomas Hibbs, who has been serving as dean of the Honors College at Baylor University, will be the first University of Dallas alumnus to serve as president when he assumes the role of president on July 1. 

Dr. Hibbs said he intends to instill a strong sense of pride in the campus of 2,500 and strengthen the identity and financial position of the university, plus be a creative storyteller of the UD college experience.