Dear UHC Family & Friends,
As we celebrate the Christmas season, we pause to reflect with gratitude on the values
that unite us at the University of Holy Cross—service, compassion, and a commitment
to the dignity of every person. This time of year invites us to consider how hope,
generosity, and love can shape our work and our relationships with one another.
Rooted in the Catholic tradition of the Marianites of Holy Cross, our university is
dedicated to educating the whole person and preparing students to lead lives of purpose
and service. Through learning, care for our New Orleans community, and a deep respect
for one another, our faculty, staff, and students live out this mission each day.
As I think back throughout the year, beginning with the historic snow event in January,
I am grateful for the continued support of the University of Holy Cross.
In 2025, compared to the prior academic year, the University experienced measurable
growth:
* Total enrollment increased 7.05% to 1,124 students.
* Degree- and certification-seeking enrollment rose 9.85%, with a 10.77% increase
in total credit hours.
* New student enrollment grew by 14.79%.
Today, UHC serves students across Louisiana, 24 states, and multiple countries.
In addition to these campus-wide accomplishments, the University of Holy Cross was
also named the #1 nursing school in Louisiana by RegisteredNursing.org in its 2026
RN program rankings. This prestigious honor recognizes UHC’s exceptional student success
and distinguished record of preparing community-focused nursing professionals.
May this season be one of peace, joy, and renewal for you and your loved ones. Thank
you for being part of the University of Holy Cross community and for supporting the
meaningful work we are called to do together.
Spes Unica,
Stanton F. McNeely III, Ed.D
President
As we close the books on a successful 2025, we invite you to consider a year-end gift to the University of Holy Cross. Your support helps sustain academic quality and ensures continued access to educational programs aligned with our mission. Gifts may be made online by clicking the button below or by mailing in a check payable to the University of Holy Cross,
Address: University of Holy Cross, ATTN: Office of Advancement, 4123 Woodland Drive, New Orleans, LA 70131
Hot off the Press! The 2026 Crawfish Boil Cookoff date has just been announced! Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 14, 2026.
Think you have what it takes to be crowned the Crawfish King or Queen? Gather your
squad, submit a team, and let your boiling prowess shine! Compete against other teams
for bragging rights and the coveted title of Crawfish Boil Cookoff Champions. Registration
will open in January.
Stay tuned for more details about sponsorship and vendor opportunities in the coming
weeks!
Annual Ditta Scholarship Dinner
UHC held the annual Ditta Scholarship Dinner on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at Southern Yacht Club.
The annual event benefits The Rose Grilletta and Joseph “Jay” Carlo Ditta Scholarship fund which provides financial scholarships to college students in need. The dinner, which includes Ditta’s family members and community and business leaders, celebrates the positive impact the seven-year scholarship campaign has had on UHC students.
UHC celebrated the phenomenal service of our faculty and staff with an awards ceremony and luncheon in the Moreau Center on December 3rd.
Years of Service, Outstanding Staff and Faculty of the Year, and Endowed Professorship Recipients were recognized. The ceremony culminated with special honoring of Dr. Larry Audler and Ms. Eileen Stoll as Professors Emeriti and Dr. Michael Labranche as Dean and Professor Emeritus.
Congratulations to all, and sincere thanks for all you do!
On December 3rd, UHC’s Pre-Med Honor Society (PMHS) inducted five alumni to the PMHS Wall of Fame.
Dr. McNeely and PMHS President, Katie Nguyen, unveiled the new portraits and each inductee had an opportunity to say how special their experience at UHC was and how they were set up for success.
PMHS faculty advisors, Dr. Bob Pinner and Dr. Barbara Wizer, shared memories of when they taught the alumni who were present.
Congratulations to the newest inductees!
The UHC Nursing Program - ranked #1 in the State of Louisiana by RegisteredNursing.com- is now accepting applications for the 2026 admissions cycle. Take the next step toward a meaningful career in healthcare—the application fee is waived for all applications submitted by February 12.
For more information about our award winning program with a history of educating compassionate
nurses, visit uhcno.edu/nursing.
On Thursday, December 12, students, staff, faculty and their families enjoyed an evening
of prayer, food and fellowship at the inaugural UHC Winter Wonderland. UHC was transformed into a magical wonderland for the evening as the Fall 2025 semester
came to a close. A very special guest - Buddy the Elf (played by Dr. McNeely)- joined
in on the fun!
Everyone enjoyed the savory, sweet chicken and beignets from Sweet Legacy, cookie decorating, movie watching and karaoke. Memories were made for sure, and we look forward to continuing this tradition for many years to come.
Applications for the Radiologic Technology Programopen on January 26, 2026. We invite prospective students to take the next step toward a rewarding career in
healthcare and join a program grounded in academic excellence, hands-on learning,
and service to others.
For more information about one of the fastest growing programs at UHC, visit uhcno.edu/radtech.
✅ UHC gear makes great gifts this holiday season!
✅ Mark your calendars for these upcoming dates and opportunities to engage with our UHC community:
January 24 - Algiers Mardi Gras Festival
January 27-30 - Law & Ethics in Counseling Conference (in person & virtual)
March 14 - UHC Spring Admissions Event
March 14 - 5th Annual Crawfish Boil Cookoff
✅ Show your support for our UHC faculty, staff and students who are working hard ahead of the festival this weekend! Will you commit a small donation through the end of 2025?