In Brief–Fall 2025

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Franciscan University of Steubenville

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In Brief

A look at recent news from the Franciscan University community.

Fall 2025

In This Article

Major Expansion of Franciscan Square

During a June 5 press conference at the Best Western Inn and Suites at Franciscan Square, Franciscan University officials announced the expansion of Franciscan Square—a major development that will open five new businesses, create dozens of jobs, and boost economic opportunity for the local community.

The new businesses are Scooter’s Coffee, Buffalo Wild Wings Go, Jamba, Auntie Anne’s, and Cinnabon.

“I love when Franciscan University can collaborate with individuals who desire to see the Ohio Valley prosper. Bringing these new food options to Franciscan Square is part of our commitment to serve both our students and the Steubenville community,” University President Father Dave Pivonka, TOR ’89, said. “It’s about creating a space where people can gather, connect, and enjoy good food and coffee in a vibrant, welcoming environment. No doubt our entire community will be blessed by this venture.”

Dan Vansteenburg ’93 in a polo shirt at a press conference for the expansion of Franciscan Square. Construction for the new Franciscan Square expansion began in early August, and the new businesses are expected to have a staggered opening over the summer of 2026.

Scooter’s Coffee, the nation’s fifth largest coffee chain, will be the first business to open. The coffee shop and café will include a drive-thru window. The brand operates more than 850 locations across 31 states and specializes in espresso drinks and baked-from-scratch pastries.

Jamba, Auntie Anne’s, and Cinnabon, three franchises of the GoTo Foods company, will form a unique, tri-branded store.

Jamba offers a variety of smoothies, juices, and bowls. Auntie Anne’s is the world’s largest soft pretzel franchise. Cinnabon operates nearly 2,000 locations worldwide and is known for its signature cinnamon rolls.

The last of the new businesses will be Buffalo Wild Wings Go. The eatery is a streamlined, carryout restaurant designed for quick takeout and delivery, offering the same flavors and 26 signature sauces as its full-service locations.

A new 8,700-square-foot building will house all five eateries and will include an exclusive lounge and eating area for Franciscan University students and employees, while also offering public seating on the second floor of the facility.

Spin Ohio Inc., owned by Franciscan University graduate Dan Vansteenburg ’93, will operate the businesses, employing about 60 people to run the daily operations of the new Franciscan Square businesses. Officials also estimate that approximately 160 jobs will be created during the year-long construction phase.

“After the warm welcome Jimmy John’s received in 2024 from Steubenville area residents, we are beyond excited to add new restaurants in 2026. From early morning to late night, we will be ready to serve each of you a variety of options to make your day just a little brighter,” Vansteenburg said.

The expansion continues the steady progress of economic development at Franciscan Square. In April 2024, Jimmy John’s popular sandwich franchise opened for business at the square, and in November 2023, The Rink at Franciscan Square celebrated its grand opening. The square is also home to Rubi’s Pizza and Grill, McCarthy’s Harp and Habit pub, the Inn and Suites at Franciscan Square, the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology, and the Illumination Financial Group.

After this latest expansion, Franciscan Square will have six acres remaining for future development. Check out the potential in Steubenville at the Franciscan Square website.

Welcoming New Trustees

Franciscan University recently welcomed four new members to its distinguished Board of Trustees. Father Joseph Marie Krilich, TOR ’13, completed his doctorate in physical therapy at Saint Francis University in May 2025. He previously earned a master’s degree in divinity from The Catholic University of America. A former missionary and residence hall chaplain, Father Krilich has served in various leadership and ministry roles and was recognized as an NCAA Division III Men’s Soccer Most Valuable Player.

James “Jim” Burke ’23 earned his master’s degree in Catholic studies through Franciscan University’s online programming. He is also a graduate of Villanova University with a bachelor in science in business administration in finance and received his MBA from the Katz School of Business, University of Pittsburgh. He is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and currently works in the field of cyber security and compliance as CEO of VikingCloud.

Michael del Prado ’20 earned his master’s degree in theology and Christian ministry through Franciscan University’s online programming. His previous education was in business management and industrial engineering. He currently holds seats on two boards besides Franciscan’s. He has worked in medical innovation globally for over 30 years and is a seasoned world traveler.

Molly McMahon is a wife, mother of five, and passionate advocate for women. Together with her husband, Chris, Molly devotes herself to serving expectant mothers in the Pittsburgh area through Mary’s Place, a sanctuary offering safety, support, and life-changing resources. As leaders of the Gift of Mary Board, Molly and Chris continue their mission to empower and uplift mothers in need with compassion and hope.

Patrick Flannery Named New Vice President of Finance

Patrick Flannery wearing a suit and tie in front of a gray background. Franciscan University appointed Patrick Flannery as the new vice president of Finance in May.

Flannery brings more than two decades of senior leadership in finance to the role, including 14 years as vice president for Finance and treasurer at Hillsdale College in Michigan. At Hillsdale, he led the financial affairs division, managed an institutional budget exceeding $200 million, and played a key role in strengthening the college’s financial position, growing total assets from $643 million to more than $2 billion and increasing its endowment to $1.1 billion.

“I am thrilled to welcome Patrick as our new vice president of Finance,” said Franciscan University President Father Dave Pivonka, TOR ’89. “His depth of experience in higher education, commitment to operational excellence, and personal love for our mission make him an ideal fit to help steward our resources and guide us through this next chapter of growth and sustainability.”

In addition to budget and investment oversight, Flannery’s tenure at Hillsdale included leadership in capital planning, institutional risk management, and the development of financial strategies for graduate programs and capital campaigns. He also serves on multiple civic and Catholic foundation boards and has remained actively involved in public service.

At Franciscan, he provides strategic leadership across the University’s finance and business departments, helps strengthen financial operations, and supports long-term planning and mission-aligned investment through the Be Light Strategic Plan.

“I’m excited to work for an evangelistic Catholic institution that shares the faith on campus, around the country, and throughout the world,” Flannery said. “I’m honored the University selected me for this position, and I pray to exceed the expectations set for me. This opportunity is a blessing for my family and me.”

Flannery holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Michigan State University and an MBA with a focus in finance and accounting from Regis University.

Meet Our New Faculty

Franciscan University welcomed these new faculty members to share its academic and faith mission during the 2025-2026 academic year.

Fall Enrollment Surges

In an era when many universities are experiencing declines in enrollment, Franciscan University welcomed its largest incoming class of students for the 11th straight year. A record of 1,227 new students—including freshmen, graduate students, and transfers—began their classes on campus and online this fall.

The steady and consistent growth not only bucks national trends but also solidifies Franciscan’ place as among the most faithfully Catholic universities in the country.

“This time of significant change in higher education presents us with a tremendous opportunity to respond to the deep hunger of young people for truth and for authentic Catholic community, where they are strengthened in faith and prepared to lead with courage and conviction,” University President Father Dave Pivonka, TOR ’89, said.

More than 4,250 students are attending classes this fall. This figure includes about 400 dual enrollment high school students. The number of new undergraduate students attending Franciscan in person jumped from 824 last year to 848 this year, and the number of new online undergraduate students increased from 93 to 143. The University also posted an 88 percent first-year retention rate, which far surpasses the national average.

“The fact that so many of our students remain and thrive is proof that Franciscan delivers on what families are looking for: a university that forms the whole person, uniting rigorous academics with faith and community,” said Vice President for Enrollment Management Tim Reardon.

Franciscan now educates and forms students from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and 35 other countries.

Oath of Fidelity

During the new student orientation Mass on August 22, 31 Franciscan University faculty, staff, and pastoral personnel took the Oath of Fidelity and made the Profession of Faith before Bishop Edward M. Lohse, apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Steubenville. This was the largest group of new employees to pledge the oath in University history. Individually, each promised, in both their words and actions, to “always preserve communion with the Catholic Church.”

A group photo of faculty from the Franciscan University of Steubenville and priest and the bishop after taking the Oath of Fidelity.

Franciscan Saint

Blessed Achilles Puchala (1911-1943) and Blessed Herman Stepien (1910-1943)

World War II made many martyrs—men and women who stood against evil and held fast to their faith. On June 13, 1999, Pope John Paul II beatified 108 of these martyrs from Poland, including Franciscan priests Blessed Achilles Puchala and Blessed Herman Stepien.

Jozef Puchala was born on March 18, 1911. He grew up in the village of Kosina in southeastern Poland before studying at a minor seminary in Lviv. In 1927, he entered the Conventual Franciscans, where he received the religious name Achilles. He professed his solemn vows in May 1932 and was ordained to the priesthood four years later. Father Achilles initially worked at Franciscan convents.

Then, Germany invaded Poland. World War II had begun.

The priest stationed at the Church of St. George in what is modern-day Pershai, Belarus, disappeared following the invasion. Father Achilles was sent as the new pastor. Not only did he minister to the local families spiritually, but he also helped them materially with any food or assistance he could provide.

Another young Franciscan priest, Father Herman Stepien, soon joined him. Born as Karol in Lodz, Poland, he also attended seminary in Lviv before continuing his studies in Rome. He was ordained in 1937, serving as a priest in Radomsko and Vilnius before going to Pershai. Together, the Franciscans provided comfort to the suffering people.

In summer of 1943, Polish partisans revolted against the Nazis. In retaliation, the Nazis raided and slaughtered throughout the nearby area. By some accounts, a German officer staying at the parish rectory warned the Franciscans to hide. But the two priests joined the villagers rounded up by the Nazis on July 19, 1943.

Father Achilles and Father Herman were led to a barn in a surrounding village. They are believed to have been tortured before being murdered, and the barn was set on fire.

During the beatification Mass of the 108 Martyrs of World War II (also known as the 108 Blessed Polish Martyrs), Pope John Paul II said, “The blessed martyrs cry to our hearts: Believe in God who is love! Believe in him in good times and bad! Awaken hope! May it produce in you the fruit of fidelity to God in every trial!”

The Blessed Polish Martyrs’ feast day is June 12.

Bookshelf

Return to the Heart: The Biblical Spirituality of St. Augustine’s Confessions
Dr. Shane Owens MA ’15
Emmaus Road Publishing

St. Augustine’s Confessions has long been considered a spiritual literary masterpiece. Detailing this great saint’s journey toward God, the autobiography is full of insights into theology and philosophy. However, modern readers might find it intimidating to crack open its cover. Franciscan University theology professor Dr. Shane Owens breaks down St. Augustine’s wisdom for a new generation. He explores the importance of understanding our own hearts in spiritual life, so we can more intimately encounter God and pursue true conversion.

Summa Apologetica: Catholic Apologetics and Moral Questions

Joseph Freymann ’95
En Route Books and Media

What is truth? Does objective morality exist? What happens at Mass, and why does it matter? In this apologetics textbook designed for high school seniors and college students, educator Joseph Freymann answers these questions and more. He explores issues about morality, Church history, and other religions through a question-and-answer format, which includes reflection questions at each chapter’s conclusion to aid in comprehension. The textbook aims to help students strengthen their faith while also becoming better equipped to explain it to others.

Darwin and Doctrine: The Compatibility of Evolution and Catholicism

Dr. Daniel Kuebler

Word on Fire

Some people have used evolution to quash belief in God as Creator. But does evolutionary theory really exist in complete contradiction to the Christian faith? In this new book, Franciscan professor and biologist Dr. Dan Kuebler explores how the evolutionary process and Christian doctrines can, in fact, complement each other in the pursuit of truth. He draws upon theology, philosophy, and science to provide a comprehensive, interdisciplinary dialogue about how faith and reason unite, even in the often-controversial question of evolution and creation.

Where the Red Sands Fly
John McNichol ’92
Sophia Institute Press

Imagine a teenage G.K. Chesterton. Now, imagine him dropped into a steampunk version of turn-of-the century London where he comes up against aliens, steam cowboys, and giant robots. That’s the concept behind Franciscan alumnus John McNichol’s The Young Chesterton Chronicles. His latest addition to the series is Where the Red Sands Fly, in which young Chesterton discovers he has long-lost family in the British colonies on Mars. He embarks on a journey with a military officer named Hilaire Belloc as he also works to save two worlds from evil.