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“From this hillside, where it abates its rise, a sun was born into the world.”

Dante, Paradiso XI

The University of St. Thomas dedicates Fall 2026 to a campus-wide commemoration marking the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi. Through historical, theological, scientific, artistic, philosophical, cultural, and communal explorations, the celebration invites our community to rediscover how the witness of Francis and the Franciscans can illuminate our own lives and enrich the life of our university. Signature events include the visit of the Bishop of Assisi and an exposition of relics, a campus exhibition, a Feast of St. Francis celebration, and an academic conference.