ARTICLE
RUTHERFORD and LODI, NJ (July 5, 2023) – Felician University is proud to announce the appointment of Father Thomas H. Franks, O.F.M. CAP., as the new Vice President of Mission Integration, effective July 5, 2023. Acting President Dr. Mihlon remarked, “Fr. Tom has an extensive background in religious leadership and brings to us a deep understanding of mission, values, and inclusion, having formerly served in positions in campus ministry, student life, and teaching. At Felician, he will play a vital role in university life as we continue to deepen our commitment to our Felician Franciscan tradition and mission.” Prior to coming to Felician, Fr. Tom was Chaplain and Director of Campus Ministry and Social Action at Manhattan College where he also was adjunct professor of Religious Studies and SCPS. He served as Deputy Chief Chaplain for the New York City Metropolitan Transit Authority and in many leadership positions within his Capuchin Franciscan community and church in New York. Fr. Tom earned a B.S. in Psychology and Philosophy from Fordham University, an M.Div. in Sacramental Theology from Weston Jesuit School of Theology, an M.S. in Mental Health Counseling from Manhattan College, and an S.T.L. in the New Evangelization from Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit. About Felician University Felician University inspires and engages more than 2,100 undergraduate, graduate, and adult education students through programs in the Schools of Arts & Sciences, Business & Information Sciences, Nursing, and Education. Over the past five years, Felician University has ranked 3rd among private institutions in New Jersey for best value according to payscale.com and #1 Safest College Campus in New Jersey according to niche.com. The Master of Science in Nursing program is ranked one of the best online graduate nursing programs in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. Felician University was designated as a Military Friendly School (Gold Status) for the ninth year recognizing its strong support for Veteran students. The university is recognized for its diversity as an HSI (Hispanic Serving Institution) and MSI (Minority Serving Institution), having underrepresented students comprise more than half of the student population. With campuses in Rutherford and Lodi, New Jersey, the Franciscan values of social justice, compassion, and respect for human dignity serve as an inclusive foundation for transforming the lives of tomorrow’s leaders. For more information, please visit https://felician.edu.