Spring 2025 Newsletter

Growing CDL Training Opportunities

With the cold weather mostly behind us, we're kicking off April with a full training class! Enrollment continues to stay strong, with students ranging from 18 to their 40s, all eager to earn their CDL—whether for a new job or to jumpstart a career in the trucking industry.

Now Offering: CDL Refresher Course

We're excited to introduce a 2-week CDL Refresher Course for individuals who previously held a Class A CDL, but let it lapse. This streamlined training helps them brush up on essential skills and understand the testing requirements needed to regain their license.

Rolling in Style – Our Semi Trucks Have Fresh Wraps!

Earlier this year, we gave our training trucks a fresh new look! These rigs are more than just learning tools—they’re moving billboards showcasing the incredible opportunities at SJC. Whether on the highway or parked on campus, they represent the bright future we're building for our students and our community.

New and Improved Certificate Programs

We are excited to share the launch of our Certified Pre-Nursing Program (CP-NP) at Saint Joseph’s College. This new offering strengthens our commitment to preparing students for careers in healthcare by combining four key certifications into a comprehensive training program. The CP-NP includes certification in Clinical Medical Assisting, Phlebotomy Technician, EKG Technician, and Basic Life Support, providing students with a strong foundation in patient care.

To accommodate different student needs, we have introduced two program options. The accelerated 9.5-week program, which launches May 26th, is designed for high school students looking to jumpstart their healthcare careers. For those seeking a more in-depth experience, the full-term 16-week program will begin this fall. Both tracks offer valuable hands-on training and an opportunity for individuals to enhance their credentials in a competitive healthcare job market.

Saint Joseph’s College has also partnered with local veterinarians and animal care facilities to provide hands-on clinical training for students in our Certified Veterinary Assistant and Certified Veterinary Office Assistant programs. These partnerships give students real-world experience in veterinary clinics, allowing them to apply their skills in animal care and clinic operations alongside professionals in the field.

As Saint Joseph’s College continues to expand its career-focused educational offerings, the Pre-Nursing Program and veterinary partnerships reflect our dedication to workforce readiness. We look forward to seeing the impact these program will have on our students and the community.

Saint Joseph's Building & Trades House: Progress Update

Since breaking ground last fall, the Saint Joseph’s Building and Trades house has steadily taken shape. With the footings and foundation poured, students quickly raised the framing, enclosed the structure, and installed doors and windows, bringing the house to life. They installed the roof using materials graciously donated by GAF Materials LLC, further advancing the exterior construction of the home.

As winter set in, students moved indoors to focus on drywall installation. Thanks to the generosity of National Gypsum, they worked with donated Gold Bond drywall and PermaBASE cement board products, while ProForm Finishing Products donated the tape and joint compound. With warmer weather approaching, students will shift their focus back to the exterior to install the siding. The home will ultimately be sold to the public, reinforcing the program’s emphasis on practical, career-ready training. Beyond the tangible results of their work, students gain a profound sense of accomplishment as they see their efforts materialize into a finished home.

Upon successful completion of the program, students can proceed into an apprenticeship through the Central Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters’ Indiana Kentucky Regional Council of Carpenters Joint Apprenticeship and Training Fund (JATF). This opportunity ensures they can continue developing their skills and embark on rewarding careers in the carpentry and construction industries.

Graduate Spotlight: Cynthia Pfau

Cynthia’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and the power of support. After earning her high school diploma at 32, she completed three career-advancing certifications at Saint Joe in just six months. Now, she’s working in healthcare and preparing to start nursing school.

Her path hasn’t been easy, but her strength and the encouragement of those around her have shaped her into the compassionate caregiver she is today. Cynthia’s story is a testament to the impact of perseverance and the importance of lifting others up.

Read more about her inspiring journey: www.saintjoe.edu/post/graduate-spotlight-pfau

Creating Space for the Future

In January, the Board of Trustees approved the modernization of the HVAC systems in the Fieldhouse, Recreation Center, and Raleigh Hall. This investment is an important step in preparing our campus for the future. Upgraded climate control will create more comfortable, flexible, and functional spaces—setting the stage for new opportunities as we continue to grow and evolve. We’re excited about what’s ahead and grateful for the continued support in shaping the next chapter of Saint Joseph’s.

If you’d like to support this project, please consider making a donation to the New HVAC System Project.Checks may be made payable to Saint Joseph's College and mailed to:PO Box 300, Rensselaer, IN 47978Or, give online at saintjoe.edu/give

Upcoming Events

Homecoming

SAVE THE DATE: September 13, 2025Join the SJC Alumni Association, Inc. on campus for Homecoming 2025.More details coming soon!

SJC Puma Legacy Athletic Luncheon

Event Details:Sunday, April 27, 2025 from 12-2pm CDT

The SJC Puma Legacy, Corp. will host a luncheon recognizing Athletics Hall of Fame and Wall of Honor inductees at the prestigious Fair Oaks Farmhouse near Rensselaer.

Mike, Mara '78, and Garrett '11 Davis Family return as the Title Sponsor 

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Contact Bill Hogan '74 at 206-513-6550 or bill.hoganone@gmail.com to purchase tickets

Tickets are $50 per person and sponsorship opportunities are available.

Visit SJCPumaLegacy.org

Want to help or become involved?

Give an Alumni Gift - To give a gift in recognition of a loved one, or to make a donation in support of Saint Joseph’s College, please visit www.saintjoe.edu/give for more information on the different ways to give.

Program Development - If you have a specialized skill set or expertise that could be useful in building our future curriculum, consider reaching out to us at marketing@saintjoe.edu

Jobs Available - We’re always seeking additional instructors to teach our certificate programs at SJC! Please email programs@saintjoe.edu to discuss opportunities!