St. Thomas University Commencement Celebrates 50 Years' Leadership Development and Significant Economic Impact in the Region

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Dec 16, 2011, 12:57 ET

MIAMI, Dec. 16, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A new Class of 2011 undergraduate, graduate and law school students will graduate Saturday, December 17, 2011 at St. Thomas University's Fernandez Family Center for Leadership and Wellness. They all look forward to a bright future thanks to the private, Catholic institution that traces its roots from the 60s decade during the Cuban exodus. Commencement ceremony starts at 10:00 a.m. and features St. Thomas University President, Monsignor Franklyn M. Casale as keynote speaker.

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"This is a very special year to us as we celebrate our golden anniversary, 50 years' history contributing to the economic vitality of the State of Florida", says Monsignor Casale. "For five decades, the value of a faith-based higher education has translated into high ethical standards, analytical thinking, personal transformation and ability to lead in various walks of life. We have been gathering on various occasions to celebrate our accomplishments and growth with trustees, board members, faculty, staff, alumni and our students. It will all culminate in a grand celebration April 21, 2012, co-chaired by Maria Elena Villamil and Francis Sevilla-Sacasa."

School of Business Dean, Jose Antonio (Tony) Villamil recently presented an economic impact study that shows St. Thomas University is a top contributor to the economic development of South Florida and to the entire state, contributing to the region's quality of life. The Study highlights the University's significance as a supplier of higher education-trained human resources and as a contributor to the expansion of knowledge. Quantifiable economic impacts include the creation of high-wage jobs, Labor income generation, contributions to the Gross Domestic Product and fiscal revenue impacts. "St. Thomas University annual economic impact is estimated to be a significant $1.5 billion in the State of Florida," says Dean Villamil. "About 1.4 billion, or 93 percent, of the economic impacts occur in the South Florida region." The University directly or indirectly supports 14,650 jobs, generating over $490 million in Labor Income and contributing $917 million to the GPD. For additional information on the Dean's study, including tables and stats, please email him at [email protected]. For general information on St. Thomas University, contact Chief Marketing Officer Marivi Prado at [email protected] or visit www.stu.edu.