Celebrating Our History: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Charter Day

On Tuesday, April 8, 2025, the Seton Hall community is invited to participate in a series of events celebrating St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Charter Day – an annual tradition that honors the University’s founding in 1856 and the granting of its charter by the New Jersey State legislature in 1861.
 
Charter Day is a special opportunity to celebrate the University’s history and reflect upon our purpose, our Catholic identity and our mission. This year’s commemoration is especially significant, as the University recognizes a key milestone in its history: the 50th anniversary of sainthood for our namesake, Mother Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first American-born saint and foundress of the Sisters of Charity.
 
Charter Day will feature a full program of events, including the main convocation which will take place at 3 p.m. in the Event Room of the University Center.
 
The afternoon’s commemoration will feature a reading of the University’s original charter and the presentation of several awards, starting with the Bishop Bernard J. McQuaid Medal for Distinguished Service. Bearing the name of University’s first president, the honor is given annually to long-serving employees for distinguished service and commitment to the University’s mission. Additionally, the President’s Award for Student Service will be presented to employees who were nominated by Seton Hall students. Lastly, the Servant Leader Scholars awards will be given to students who embody the University's mission and exemplify leadership for the well-being of others.
 
To help bring St. Elizabeth’s story to life, Catherine O’Donnell, Ph.D., professor of history at Arizona State University and author of the biography Elizabeth Seton: American Saint, will deliver the keynote address at the ceremony and also participate in events taking place on Charter Day.
 
Throughout the day, there will be various events inspired by Mother Seton’s legacy. All members of the University community are invited and encouraged to participate as their schedules allow.

Schedule of Events

Charter Day Treats and Trivia
10 a.m. | Presidents Hall*
Stop by the table in front of Presidents Hall to test your Charter Day knowledge! Answer trivia questions and spin for a prize (Hint: you just might find all you need to know in the introduction!)
**In case of inclement weather,  this event will be moved indoors to the University Center, Main Lobby.
 
Resilience Panel Luncheon
12:30 p.m. | Bethany Hall
A luncheon for the Class of 2025 MLK Scholars and Buccino Leaders, Servant Leader Scholars, DOVE Servant Leader Awardees and Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute Scholars, focusing on Elizabeth Seton’s resilience and her enduring inspiration in challenging times. Featured panelists include Professor Catherine O'Donnell, Professor Nancy Enright and junior Lucas Brasil. This special event is by invitation only.

Charter Day Ceremony
3 p.m. | University Center, Main Event Room
The award ceremony will recognize the winners of the McQuaid Medal and President's Award for Student Service and honor our Servant Leader Scholars. Catherine O'Donnell will give a short keynote address focused on examples from Elizabeth’s life that demonstrated her resilience, and how we are carrying on her legacy  through our commitment to the University’s mission and through service. Registration recommended and encouraged. 
 
For those unable to attend in person, the Charter Day commemoration will be livestreamed on the University’s website.
 
Book Signing with Catherine O’Donnell
4:15 p.m. | University Center Event Lounge
Immediately following the Charter Day ceremony, meet Professor O’Donnell during a special book signing. Refreshments will be served. Complimentary copies of Elizabeth Seton: American Saint will be available (while supplies last) with options to purchase the book on-site.

Elizabeth Ann Seton Meets G.K. Chesterton
5 p.m. | University Center, 2nd Floor, Room 206
What would these two monumental figures in Catholic theology and education say about Catholic higher education today? Dermot Quinn, D.Phil. will offer insights into the thought and influence of G.K. Chesterton, while Catherine O’Donnell, Ph.D. will bring the perspective of Mother Seton. Moderated by Patrick Manning, Ph.D., associate professor of pastoral theology and director of the Center for Catholic Studies at Seton Hall. Hosted by the Center for Catholic Studies, registration also recommended.
 
For additional information about Charter Day and related events, please visit the Charter Day website.

Categories: Faith and Service