A new Fellows program launching this year will bring professionals who have expertise in human rights and diversity issues into the St. Francis College community, helping enrich the College's academic curriculum and learning opportunities for students.

Debuting in spring 2021, the Center for the Advancement of Faculty Excellence (the CAFE) is a new locus for faculty development within the College's Office of Academic Affairs. Under the leadership of Molly Mann, Ph.D., its new director, the CAFE hosts workshops, administers programs and offers individualized coaching that will enrich student instruction, ultimately enabling students – particularly from populations historically under-represented in higher education – to meet intended learning outcomes.

Shaka King, director and co-screenwriter of the 2021 Academy Award-nominated film "Judas and the Black Messiah," will discuss his work and career with screenwriter and playwright Ben Snyder, the dramatic writing coordinator for St. Francis College's MFA program, on May 6 at 7 p.m., as the latest guest in the College's Write in Brooklyn discussion series.

As our nation processes the outcome of the Chauvin trial, a moment in our history that is certain to raise mixed emotions in all of us, and as we work to heal and to consider the many ways the world needs us to be beacons of hope, I have made a decision to close the campus on Friday, April 23rd, to give us all an opportunity to pause, pray, reflect, meditate and/or talk to those we care about regarding the state of the world today.

"I urge you all to take time to reflect upon the Franciscan values of inclusivity, mercy, compassion and kindness that guide this institution and contemplate on the ways we can draw upon those values in the pursuit of justice that these times require. Please continue to speak out and to engage in meaningful dialogue with those around you. As always, I stand with all of you as we denounce this violence and as we strive to live lives that promote peace, justice and true equality for everyone."

St. Francis College currently plans to celebrate spring commencement in person on Thursday, May 20, 2021 at the Ford Amphitheater on the Coney Island Boardwalk.