“Thank You”
Esmeralda Jaenicke
Senior, Psychology – Alaska
As a high school student living in Alaska, Esmeralda Jaenicke was told by a Franciscan University graduate that the school was a special place where God would work in her life.
“After I looked into how much it cost, I didn’t think it would be possible,” she says. But she took a step of faith and applied. “Everything worked out so I could go. I think God really wanted me to be here.”
In fall 2020, Esmeralda transferred to Franciscan after a year at the University of Alaska in Anchorage, and she now is beginning her senior year. A psychology major, she hopes to go on for her master’s degree in counseling and work with children and adolescents.
Esmeralda says she is thankful to those who donated to the University and made it possible for her to pursue her education. Without that help, she would not have been able to study at Franciscan, because her family does not have the necessary resources.
“But I knew that if I went to a school like that, it was more likely I could have a better future. I’m really grateful because it gave me the opportunity to find hope when I didn’t have hope that my life was going to get better.”
Now, Esmeralda says, “My goal of becoming a therapist is closer than I have ever imagined. I will be able to help those who are struggling with mental health issues, which will be a dream come true. I have been able to grow in my faith, challenge myself more academically, and push myself out of my comfort zone.”
John LeBlanc
Senior, Business Management – Michigan
Two weeks before classes were to start last fall, John LeBlanc heeded the advice of a cousin who suggested he apply to Franciscan University.
“It’s going to be too late,” he told her, but she countered, “It’s worth a shot. Just do it.”
John was amazed to be accepted within days. He was even more astounded when the Financial Aid Office put together a package that, combined with a loan, made it possible for him to begin his studies that fall.
As the fifth-born in a family of eight that includes a sibling with special needs, John has had to find ways to fund his education. He attended a community college in his home state of Michigan for two years and had planned to transfer to a state university to finish his bachelor’s degree. When that didn’t work out, he was considering taking a semester off. But, with financial aid and earnings from various jobs, he is now on track to graduate this spring and plans to continue his studies toward a master’s degree.
John says he is grateful to those donors who made his scholarships possible and prays for them during his weekly adoration time.
“Without their generosity, not only would I have been unable to attend Franciscan and finish my degree in business management, but I would not have experienced the spiritual and intellectual growth the Franciscan community provides. They have gifted me with the opportunity to succeed and do so with humility, knowing that my success is dependent on their contribution.”
