Partnering for Success: Seton Hall Visits Paramus Catholic to Accelerate College Pathways

Top administrators from Seton Hall University, including Provost Katia Passerini, Ph.D.; Dean of Arts and Sciences Jonathan Farina, Ph.D.; Director of Project Acceleration Francesca Phillippy; and Dean of Continuing Education and Professional Studies Mary Kate Naatus, Ph.D., recently visited Paramus Catholic High School to explore new opportunities for collaboration and strengthen their existing strategic partnership. Paramus Catholic President, Chris Farrell, who previously worked at Seton Hall in University Advancement, and who organized the visit shared, “We’re enthusiastic about strengthening our partnership with Seton Hall and highlighting the unique academic pathways our students are pursuing.”

The visit included a tour of the school and meetings with key leaders. Led by Aquinas Honors students, the tour highlighted Paramus Catholic's vibrant academic and extracurricular offerings. This included various elective academic pathways for robotics, law, healthcare, music and more. Afterward, Seton Hall representatives met with Principal Stephanie Macaluso, Ph.D., Dean of Academics Amy Shea, Vice Principal Joseph Wilson, Social Media Coordinator Jason Wejnert, and other school leaders to discuss expanding the dual enrollment program and promoting pre-college opportunities for Paramus Catholic students.

“Our partnership with Paramus Catholic aligns with Seton Hall's commitment to fostering academic excellence and providing students with a head start on their college journey,” said Passerini. “Through programs like Project Acceleration, students can earn college credits while still in high school, setting them on a pathway for success.”

The visit also highlighted the success of Seton Hall’s Project Acceleration program, which allows eligible high school students to earn college credits in advanced courses. Paramus Catholic students have long participated in this program, with a range of courses available to them. The partnership strengthens the academic foundation for students as they transition to college. Project Acceleration is currently offered at over 120 high schools, providing students with a unique opportunity to experience college-level coursework while earning transferable college credits.

“Dual enrollment allows students to take part in college curriculum without the stress of an exam to define their academic standing,” noted Phillippy. “We’re excited to continue growing this program at Paramus Catholic and across New Jersey, helping students get ahead in their academic careers.”

During the meeting, Seton Hall administrators also shared updates on the University’s Pre-College Summer Programs for 2025, which provide high school students with hands-on learning experiences in areas like STEM, business leadership and the arts. These programs in fields from Finance and Entrepreneurship to Robotics, Health Sciences and Catholic Studies are coordinated by the Division of Continuing Education and span various Schools and Colleges and offer opportunities for students to explore their academic interests and in select cases earning college credits.

Shea expressed her enthusiasm for the continued collaboration. “The partnership with Seton Hall has opened up so many doors for our students. We look forward to building on this relationship and creating even more opportunities for them to excel.”

As Seton Hall and Paramus Catholic continue to work together, both institutions are committed to fostering student achievement and preparing the next generation of leaders through innovative academic programs and strategic partnerships.

“As a SHU alumna, I know the valuable foundation that Seton Hall provides for lifelong success. The partnership between Paramus Catholic and Seton Hall offers PC students, not just academic enrichment, but the opportunity to develop leadership skills with a drive for excellence in a faith filled environment. A foundation that will shape their future and empower them to make a positive impact on the world of tomorrow," added Principal Stephanie Macaluso, Ed.D.

To learn more about high school and pre-college partnerships with Seton Hall contact ceps@shu.edu.

Categories: Education