Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor as a community St. Xavier University and to celebrate its 50th Anniversary. St. Xavier is located in Chicago's Mount Greenwood neighborhood.

When founded in 1846 by the Sisters of Mercy, St. Xavier was a Catholic institution grounded in the tradition of the liberal arts. As one of 18 colleges and universities sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, St. Xavier has evolved into an institution that seeks to provide its students with the meaning of scholarship, the support of the community, and the spirit of moral and ethical sensibility.

Although a Catholic university of approximately 5,700 students, St. Xavier welcomes students of all faiths and religious backgrounds. Because of its rich traditions and commitment to excellence St. Xavier has become one of Chicago's premier collegiate institutions for students studying nursing, business, as well as education.

It is my honor to recognize this school and its many achievements both academically and athletically. In addition, I commend St. Xavier University for fostering the intellectual and cultural growth of the administration, faculty and students who all play a vital role in the success of the university's existence in today's society.