Dr. Petillo's Blog

Op-ed in Inside Higher Ed: Student Success Takes Presence

My latest op-ed offers ideas on how to build an inclusive campus culture. Building a culture of “one of us” is a difficult but important task. Visit Inside Higher Ed to learn why.

Reflections on Today's Events In Washington – January 6, 2021

I am deeply saddened by the events that unfolded today in our nation’s capital. Peaceful protest is fundamental to our democracy, but the rioting we have seen today is disgraceful and threatens the very fabric of who we are as a nation. I join with Connecticut’s leaders and lawmakers—on both sides of the aisle—who have condemned the violence at the Capitol.  

As an institution of higher learning, we subscribe to a mission and core values built around respect, dignity, truth and knowledge. We believe in everyone’s right to peacefully express his or her beliefs, and we encourage and promote discussion, debate and a respectful exchange of ideas. This is central to who we are as a University and to our Catholic intellectual and liberal arts traditions.  

May I ask that all of us pray that we resolve our differences without further violence. I am comforted in the knowledge that we are a nation of good, decent and courageous people who can succeed when we work together.  

Today marks the Feast of the Epiphany. I pray for all of us—and our leaders, especially—the faith, fortitude and generosity of the Magi.  

God bless America and our democracy.

Protecting Our International Students, Faculty, Reputation and Future – July 14, 2020

On July 6, Student and Exchange Visitors Program [SEVP] issued a Broadcast Message regarding COVID-19 and fall 2020. We consider it a thinly veiled attempt to force colleges and universities, which draw from diverse, accomplished and talented international populations, to reopen their campuses to students this fall. It states that international students will have to leave the United States or face deportation if the college or university they attend switches to online-only classes in the fall because of a spike in COVID-19 transmission. The fallout will extend to as many as a million foreign students and will create enormous hardships for them and their families.

We are planning to reopen our campus to students for the fall semester. Connecticut is a national leader in containing the spread of the virus and has effectively promoted social distancing, proper hygiene, careful monitoring, phased openings and the use of masks for workers and the general population. We will have every reasonable safety precaution in place, and almost every class we offer will include an online component. As long as this model remains in place, our international students will be protected. However, if we were to witness a spike in cases—either in the state or on campus—we will likely return to online-only classes, as we did this past spring.

Northeastern University, Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have filed a federal lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement over these new rules that are leaving international students, researchers and scholars with few positive options several weeks before the start of the fall semester. CT Attorney General William Tong has joined 17 other attorneys general to challenge the rules, and hundreds of thousands of students are signing petitions requesting that DHS and ICE rethink this unpopular decision and the hardships it will create.

 If denied entry or forced to depart, many of these people will have trouble attending online classes from their home countries, which do not share the simple and efficient access to online resources we take for granted in the United States; they may also be in time zones that make it impossible to study or work efficiently. Many will return to untenable political situations or face border and travel challenges due to the pandemic.

In addition to the human cost, the loss of revenue to colleges and universities, landlords, and businesses is enormous. Already thousands of these students—many close to completing their degrees—are questioning whether or not to return to the United States and will look to universities in other countries and reconsider where to settle in the future. This loss of prestige in the world’s eyes, as well as the drain on valuable intellectual resources, compromises our future economically, socially and politically.

At Sacred Heart University, we will continue embracing our international students, scholars, faculty and partners. We stand firmly against this misguided and transparent attempt to restrain legal immigration and visas. These restrictions will damage our already suffering economy and higher education’s ability to attract and retain the top students, faculty and talent from around the world who are so critical to education and research.

Juneteenth 2020

Tomorrow is Juneteenth, which marks a holiday that commemorates the day Union General Gordon Granger read orders in Galveston that freed all previously enslaved people in Texas. The holiday, which combines June and nineteenth, celebrates the day the final and most remote of the slave states read the proclamation—nearly two years after slaves were officially freed in the U.S.

I mention this in light of the recent killings by law enforcement officers—another of which tragically happened in Georgia when 27-year-old Rayshard Brooks was shot in the back last Friday—and the resulting protests and unrest across this country.

Traditionally, Juneteenth is a celebratory holiday, but that will not be the case this year.

As we all know, the killings of black and brown people by police officers and other white people “standing their ground” have led to protests—both peaceful and violent. More importantly, they have led to dialogue, reflection and positive action. Many of us have found ourselves thinking about this country’s history and how we want to memorialize it. As statues of confederate officers come down, Quaker drops Aunt Jemima and Gone with the Wind is removed from HBO’s streaming options, it’s important to remember that where we find ourselves today is not just about the horrendous killings, but also about more than 400 years that include slavery, lynching, voter suppression, disproportionate jail sentences and lack of access to education, jobs and health care. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

We cannot begin to make up for these years of injustice, but we have to try. It is not enough to declare ourselves nonracist and deny direct responsibility for the failings I listed above. It is not enough to point out that we, too, worked hard for everything we have. We have to take a serious look and recognize that white privilege exists, and what many of us have was built on the backs of slave labor and all the horrors and inequities that have continued here since emancipation.

Here at Sacred Heart, we are starting to take that honest look in the mirror. Since our founding, we have proclaimed our belief in the dignity of every human being as inviolable and that the commitment to justice for the common good is necessary. And we most certainly do believe that. But some of our students, faculty and staff have rightly called us on it. They have pointed out a lack of diversity and told us of racist incidents experienced within our community. The feedback is appreciated, noted and will not be ignored.

I want to suggest that in honor of the Juneteenth holiday tomorrow that each of us take some time to ponder this country’s history when it comes to the treatment of black people and other marginalized and underrepresented individuals. You could reread my blog post about the changes we are making or watch the discussions in our Heart Challenges Hate series. You could talk these issues over with your friends and family. Most importantly, if you are white, think about how your life might have been different if you were born black or brown—and decide what you are going to do about it.

A Promise to Do Better—June 3, 2020

Since the death of 46-year-old George Floyd on May 25 while in the custody of police officers, there has been outrage, disgust and sorrow from all corners of the country. Every time there is another senseless black death, there is a lot of talk, but nothing seems to change. Some of the many peaceful protests and demonstrations have turned to looting and violence in major cities around the country. Some believe it is the only way to get attention as years of talk and peaceful protests have not led to change.

Since my message last week about the University’s inclusiveness and zero tolerance policy, we have received messages of discontent and disappointment from some of our own black students—and understandably so. While we do, indeed, have a zero tolerance policy for racism, written or verbal expressions of prejudice, bullying and violence, some of our students and alumni are calling us out on our enforcement of that zero tolerance. It is safe to say that no university, no organization is perfect, and we have to take responsibility for how these members of our SHU community are feeling and for our lack of action in the past. Although difficult to hear, we are grateful for those members of our community who have come forward now. We have to do better—and we will.  

I want to make you aware of some immediate actions in response to these concerns:

• We have set up a mailbox where you can reach out to us with your concerns about inclusion, racism and bullying. Please connect with us at [email protected]. We will respond to you, and we will take action.
• We have suspended—pending a disciplinary hearing—those current students whose racist speech or images on social media has been brought to our attention. They have also been removed from any athletic teams, clubs or organizations they may belong to.
• We are investigating the posts of two incoming students.
• We are creating a bias response team that is committed to ensuring that SHU provides a safe and welcoming atmosphere for all students, faculty and staff. We will share more details about that team in the next day or two.

At our Prayer for Unity service today, we prayed for the souls of the victims, for their families and friends and for all citizens of this country. We prayed for those members of the law enforcement community who have served honorably as first responders, especially those who are graduates of Sacred Heart of whom we are very proud. We prayed for an end to racism and hatred and asked that we could begin to be the solution, that we can shine a bright light into the dark corners where fear and hatred hide.

And going forward, as Father Tony suggested today, we need to pray with our feet, which means turning our current feelings of sadness, fear and frustration into action such as, taking a leadership role in sharing the teachings of peace and justice and being the vaccine that eliminates racism.

I am reminded of the words of Saint Oscar Romero, former archbishop of San Salvador, who said, “I will not tire of declaring that if we really want an effective end to violence, we must remove the violence that lies at the root of all violence: structural violence, social injustice, exclusion of citizens from the management of the country, repression. All this is what constitutes the primal cause, from which the rest flows naturally.”

We cannot be silent witnesses any longer. It is time to act.

Statement of Solidarity—May 28, 2020

I am writing today because some of the recent happenings in this country have left me disturbed and heartbroken, and I am guessing that many of you are feeling the same way. I am thinking particularly of the recent deaths of Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, along with other incidents such as the Central Park dispute between Amy Cooper and Christian Cooper that began over leashing a dog and ended with a hysterical phone call to 9-1-1. 

It is difficult to be so separated at a time when current events are having such a tremendous impact on the way we are feeling about ourselves, law enforcement, our country and its leadership. Under normal circumstances, we would be having conversations about these events. We would gather in our common spaces to discuss our feelings. We would remind ourselves of our mission and our commitment to those who are marginalized in our society. We might gather in the chapel in memory of the lives senselessly lost. There would surely be a colloquium or two planned to help us express our feelings about the injustices taking place seemingly on a daily basis, such as our Heart Challenges Hate series from the past two years. We would talk not only about the senseless killings of black men and women, but also about the way the coronavirus has laid bare the inequities between blacks and whites. Black Americans have contracted and died of COVID-19 at disproportionate rates both because of their current lack of access to health care and previous lack of access that led to underlying conditions that make them more susceptible to the disease. In addition, blacks and other minorities have not been tested at the same rate as whites. One would hope that in a time like this when our world has turned upside down that we would draw closer, reach out to one another (virtually, of course) and help those who are worse off than ourselves. But that has not always been the case.

I am outraged and sickened by these deaths, by these statistics and by the injustices that continue to be prevalent in our society. And I know if I am feeling this way, then many of you are feeling it in an even stronger and more personal way. Some of you may even be fearful for your lives.

I want you to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. I hope you have people to whom you can reach out to share your feelings and fears. For faculty and staff, please know that our EAP program is available to you. For students, I encourage you to talk with your family and friends. All members of the community are also welcome to reach out to campus ministry for support.

At Sacred Heart, we do not tolerate racism, bullying or violence of any kind. We believe the dignity of every human being is inviolable and the commitment to justice for the common good is necessary. We pride ourselves on being a place where ideas are exchanged respectfully. Sadly, that safety does not exist everywhere. We must continue to work together to bring light into the world and erase injustice. 

Immigration Policies/Tactics Impacting Higher Education Institutions

Late last month, a Northeastern University student from Iran—here with a legitimate student visa—was turned away from Logan International Airport in Boston and sent back to his home country by U.S. immigration authorities. The immigration officials say they unknowingly ignored a court stay allowing the student to remain in the United States pending an expedited hearing.

This is not the first time that an international student was prevented from entering this country—it’s not even the first time it happened at Logan this year. An ever-growing list of countries under a travel ban (six more were recently added)—combined with incidents like this where admitted students with a valid visa are turned away—are having an impact on higher education institutions.

First, these policies and procedures are reducing the pool of international students. Some are simply restricted from coming to the U.S.; others are afraid that once they arrive in this country, they will be stopped from traveling between home and here.

Second, the workload of admissions counselors has greatly increased as they work to help international students navigate the paperwork and bureaucracy—in many cases to no avail as the students still don’t make it to their chosen U.S. campuses.

This is a shame for a number of reasons. After a steady increase in the number of new international students for more than a decade, these numbers have fallen significantly since new travel policies were put into place. This can be attributed to the delay and/or denial of student visas as well as disinclination by students to study in the United States in view of the policies and verbiage coming from this country.

It’s disappointing not only for the obvious financial reasons that come from any declining student population, but also for the opportunity it presents for students with different backgrounds and experiences to learn, work and socialize together. In today’s global economy, it is an experience that should not be underestimated.

We welcome students, faculty, guests and their families from around the world. We believe that embracing diversity enriches our classrooms and that sharing cultures, beliefs, traditions, rituals and perceptions is a critical part of learning and growth. We are but one part of a multi-national, global ecosystem and to miss the chance to interact with students from the countries and cultures that surround and strengthen us is discouraging and short-sighted.

Do Not Be Afraid, I Am With You

During the recent Synod on the Amazon, Pope Francis canonized John Henry Newman. How appropriate since Newman’s theological perspectives encourage discussions and development of contentious issues within the Church. This Synod certainly was unsettling to some in the hierarchy, especially within the United States. Simply examine the lack of enthusiasm by American bishops to be passionate advocates for Laudato Si (the encyclical that is subtitled “on care for our common home” and—among other things—calls for all of us to take “swift and unified global action” to combat climate change). Also note their resistance to be resolute in exploring substantive alternatives for roles of women in the church or their extensive and excessive inaction on the abuse issues. The latter is documented and supported by the exorbitant financial settlements required because of their passive aggressiveness. It is amazing how so many among the church leadership conveniently blame their deceased predecessors.

So now the American bishops are preparing for their general meeting this coming week. Of course, within the context of the abundance of these immoral and illegal abusive acts, the ever- dwindling church attendance and the overwhelming indifference by millennials, the agenda for the upcoming bishops’ meeting is focused on plan. It seems they love to plan so they can comfortably avoid frank and open discussions on rebuilding the fractured Church in America. Many of these “leaders” comfortably blame the errant culture and the media. Yet it is their hands that are soiled with indifference and self-preservation.

Now is the opportunity for them to get to know the works and thoughts of this newly canonized saint. Newman so gently and eloquently encouraged the development of theological and ecclesial thought. It allows through synodality the Spirit to touch the hearts and minds of the people of God who are our leaders. Shed the airs of the monarchy and be servants. Be still. Listen. Allow the Spirit to continue to guide the Church leading all of us to a greater understanding of our faith.

Working and living among college students provides fabulous experiences of their doubts, yearnings and pain. Clearly, although they question the sincerity of the Church where they see abuse and cover-ups and cannot relate to the pompous and judgmental attitude, they are amazingly hungry for the spiritual journey. Unfortunately, it’s a journey they do not seem willing to take with the current leadership that is so distant from them.

Pope Francis has repeatedly encouraged his bishops to get close to their people. Get to know their pain, their hopes and their faith. It is a journey that must be travelled with openness to the Spirit. Stop simply seeking shelter within tradition. Let the Spirit guide and refresh the people of God. (Deuteronomy 31:8 ) “He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Why are so many American bishops afraid?

President Petillo's Blog—October 25, 2019

It’s been a busy couple of weeks as our students have been responding to a proposal from North End politicians designed to limit how many of them can rent a home together, along with many negative comments about the kind of neighbors and the kind of people they are.

They have responded in a number of adult ways—primarily by registering to vote and making plans to ensure their voices are heard at the polls on November 5. As of this morning, they had 603 new registrations as part of their student-led PioneerVote program.

The students are no longer willing to take these kind of assertions lying down. They have been quick to point out the contributions they make to Bridgeport. Our students spend over $99,000,000 in the state each year, and visitors to the University spent another $1.6 million. Much of that took place in Bridgeport. Our students grocery shop, buy gas, dine out, shop for clothes, visit hair and nail salons and, yes, pay rent in Bridgeport. Their families also take them to dinner, take them shopping and stay in area hotels when they visit them here.

 Our students also contribute more than 100,000 hours of community service each year and, again, most of that happens in Bridgeport. This includes serving food at the Merton Center every day, cleaning up various parks and shoreline areas, mentoring, tutoring and reading to Bridgeport students, doing arts and crafts with disabled seniors, conducting consulting projects for nonprofits and much more. Just this past weekend, a large contingent of young women from Delta Zeta sorority did a major cleanup at Seaside Park. Last week, students raised funds for Habitat for Humanity for housing in Bridgeport, and another group participated in a read aloud day.

In the wake of the news coming out of the North End, some have questioned why they give so much to a city that has so little use for them, while others are determined to continue to serve because, they say, “this is who we are at SHU.” I empathize with both positions.

One thing they have definitely decided to do is conduct their annual turkey and food drive for needy Bridgeport families. Their goal is to raise more than $12,000 for 700 turkeys while collecting food donations for all the fixings to complete that meal. They then will load the trucks and deliver the food to St. Charles Church where they will hand out the meals to grateful residents. This year, they are challenging the North End representatives to conduct a similar drive and match them turkey for turkey. They also want to see a match of volunteer hour for volunteer hour. Let’s see exactly who is working to make Bridgeport a better place.

The University and its students will continue to work with residents and the city to find solutions. But we hope residents will recognize the very real contribution that our students make. Most of them choose Sacred Heart because of its vision for social justice and mission to prepare them to make a difference in the global community. Each summer, a large group of freshmen spend a week immersed in Bridgeport learning the customs and traditions of its various residents, touring the neighborhoods and volunteering in a variety of programs—all before they have even attended a class. Our students are vital members of the community. If they continue to feel disrespected by the leadership in Bridgeport, some may decide to take their philanthropy and their dollars elsewhere—and leave it to their critics to fill the void.

A Little Good News—October 1, 2019

Some happy news that I want to share—today, as chair of the board of trustees for St. Vincent’s Medical Center, I had the opportunity to sign the agreement finalizing the merger between St. Vincent’s  and Hartford Healthcare. This is a good thing for health care in the state. Health-care providers have a greater opportunity to successfully serve individuals and communities when they work in clinically integrated systems of care. By aligning with Hartford HealthCare, which is Connecticut’s largest health-care network, we have increased access and options for folks in the lower part of the state. Seated with me in the photo below is Jeff Flaks, CEO of Hartford HealthCare.

I was also happy to see Father James Martin’s Instagram post of his audience with Pope Francis. As I’m sure you remember, Father Martin was here in January to share his message of inclusion in the church for all and, in particular, members of the LGBTQ community. This was one of several visits he has made to our campus, and we are always thrilled to have him here. His message aligns with our mission and core values, which embrace a message of social justice and call for recognition of the dignity and worth of every human being.

Hope you are enjoying this beautiful fall weather.