Today is the 12.03.2026, and exciting news is brewing at Saint Leo University in Florida! The university has just launched the Benedictine Society, a leadership giving program aimed at expanding access to Catholic education for talented high school students who face financial barriers. This initiative was announced by Dr. Jim Burkee, the university president, during the March 7 Breakfast with the President alumni event.
The Benedictine Society is designed to close the tuition gap for Catholic students, providing them with the opportunity to pursue their academic dreams without the heavy burden of financial stress. One of the standout features of this program is its support for the Catholic Benedictine Scholars Program, which offers four-year, tuition-free scholarships to high-achieving Catholic high school students in need of financial assistance. This transformative initiative seeks to reshape students’ prospects regarding their college education.
Empowering Future Leaders
Beyond just financial support, the Benedictine Society focuses on fostering academic success, spiritual formation, and leadership development among its scholars. Stephen Kubasek, the vice president of university advancement, emphasizes that this program has the potential to create a lasting generational impact by ensuring accessibility to Catholic education and nurturing the growth of Catholic leadership. For more information about the Benedictine Society and how you can get involved, visit giving.saintleo.edu/campaigns/benedictine-society.
Saint Leo University is committed to providing an inclusive environment for all students, including those with disabilities. The Office of Accessibility Services plays a crucial role in ensuring that students receive the necessary accommodations to thrive academically. New students are encouraged to fill out the Accessibility Services New Student Application to request both academic and environmental accommodations. For those needing housing and dining accommodations, a separate application is required.
Supporting Students with Disabilities
During the application process, students must submit documentation of their disability, and an intake session will be scheduled with a staff member from the Office of Accessibility Services. This session is a valuable opportunity for students to discuss their needs and ask questions. It’s essential to start the application process early, as review and intake can take several business days, and late applications may significantly impact the accommodations provided.
Students with temporary conditions, such as injuries or surgeries, can also seek support through the Office of Accessibility Services by submitting an application via the AIM Portal. For any questions regarding the registration process, students can reach out to the office at (352) 588-8464 or via email at adaoffice@saintleo.edu.
In addition to academic support, the university provides students access to Faculty Notification Letters, alternative formats, and exam schedules through their AIM profiles. This ensures that all registered students can effectively navigate their academic journey with the necessary resources at their fingertips.
For more detailed information about accessibility services at Saint Leo University, you can visit www.saintleo.edu/student-experience/support/accessibility.
With initiatives like the Benedictine Society and robust support systems for students with disabilities, Saint Leo University is taking significant strides towards creating an inclusive and accessible educational environment. This commitment not only empowers students to succeed academically but also fosters a community of future leaders in the Catholic tradition.