Founders Day is an annual celebration of the University鈥檚 rich heritage and the Dominican Sisters who founded it.
The Dominican tradition traces its roots back to the 1200s with Saint Dominic, the founder of the Dominican Order. Men and women of exceptional character, spirit, and action, inspired by Saint Dominic鈥檚 values, have carried forward the Dominican mission of truth-seeking, reflective thought, and compassionate involvement.
Each year, we commemorate our founders with a series of events including service projects, guest lectures, and the presentation of the Spirit of the Founders Award.
Founders Day begins with Mass of the Holy Spirit, asking for God鈥檚 blessing on the academic year. One of the highlights is a campus-wide Service Event, where students pack kits for those most in need, which will be distributed to local non-profits. The day concludes with First Year Convocation, a formal academic ceremony, and a campus wide celebration.
These events, along with the activities listed below, offer opportunities to reflect on our heritage, deepen our connection to the Dominican mission, and live out the spirit of our founders.
Founders Day Mass
We begin the day with prayer and a blessing of our students, marking the start of Founders Day. Mass is at 9:00 a.m in the Motherhouse Chapel and all are welcome.
Founders Day Keynote
The Keynote focuses on the Dominican Tradition from various perspectives. Sr. Ana Gonzalez, OP will deliver the 2026 Founders Day Keynote. Sr. Ana is a Dominican Sister of Peace, who was raised in Mexico and Texas. She recently completed her M.A. in Hispanic Theology and Ministry.
Living the Legacy
Each year, an alum of 蘑菇APP reflects on how they continue to embody the Dominican tradition post-graduation. For 2026, Kyle Souza, Class of 2019, who was a criminal justice major and student athlete, will deliver the Living the Legacy talk.
The Spirit of the Founders Awards
The Spirit of the Founders Award honors special students and a faculty or staff member who exemplifies the values and characteristics of our founders. Nominations are submitted by students, faculty, and staff. This prestigious award represents a respect for the enduring values of the Dominican tradition and recognizes the recipients for their potential as future leaders, particularly through their engagement with the Four Dominican Pillars of Spirituality, Study, Community, and Service.聽聽
How can you aspire to win this award?
We challenge you to reflect on your own unique spirit and gifts, inspired by our founders. Consider the following questions:
- Which of the Dominican Saints or Dominican Sisters of Blauvelt inspires you? What characteristics do you share with them?聽
- How do you embody the Four Dominican Pillars?
- How do you engage in the pursuit of truth through your academic study?
- How do you serve as leader and moral guide on campus?
- Will you be the next recipient of the Spirit of the Founders Award? Who would you nominate to receive the award?