May 8, 2008

Bishop Steib Honored at Siena Heights University

The light blue hood for a Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, in Education was dropped gently over Bishop Steib's shoulders at a commencement ceremony at Siena Heights University in Adrian, Michigan on Sunday, May 4.

The inscription on the degree with which he was honored, notes that Bishop Steib knew that innercity Catholic Schools in Memphis had closed before he became Bishop. He "recognized the impact the loss of such schools could have on the futures of the young people who would have attended them and ultimately on the society in which these same young people would live. The actions he took to address his concerns make him an excellent example for those of us who have lived the mission of Siena Heights."

The mission of Siena Heights is to " assist people to become more competent, purposeful and ethical in a teaching and learning environment that respects the dignity of all." The degree inscription continues: "Bishop Steib provided access for all children in the Diocese of Memphis to an education which shares the values expressed in Siena's mission." The inscription quoted Bishop Steib who has said, "The point is evangelization, to be a light for those who need us most."

The degree the Bishop received also noted that the "Jubilee Schools now teach approximately 1,300 children and that 87 percent of those students come from families below or at the poverty level."

Bishop Steib was also the presider and preacher at the Baccalaureate Mass for the graduates and their families on Sunday morning ,and he gave the Benediction at the commencement ceremony.

400 graduates received their degrees on Sunday. Siena Heights main campus is in Adrian, but it has several satellite campuses across the state of Michigan.