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About The Homeland Mission

The Ward and Kathy Fitzgerald Franciscan University Homeland Mission โ€” where faith, purpose, and public service come together in Washington, D.C.

Our Mission

The Homeland Mission is a bold initiative in Washington, D.C., dedicated to forming faithful Catholic leaders to serve at the heart of American public life.

Designed as a home away from home for Franciscan students, this dynamic hub equips them โ€” across all academic disciplines โ€” to engage with politics, policy, and culture with clarity, conviction, and a missionary spirit.

Through strategic partnerships, immersive programming, and a shared commitment to promoting Catholic social teaching, the Homeland Mission invites collaboration that advances the common good.

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Faith-Centered
Formation that matters
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Community
You're not alone in this
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Excellence
In everything we do
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Mission-Driven
Purpose over paychecks

What Students Get

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Real Internships

Full-time placements at leading D.C. organizations. Not coffee runs โ€” actual work that matters.

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Career Prep

Resume workshops, interview coaching, networking events. Level up your professional game.

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Housing + Community

Affordable housing in D.C. with other Franciscan students. Built-in friend group.

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Faith Integration

Regular Mass, small groups, spiritual direction. Your faith comes first, always.

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Alumni Network

Connect with Franciscan grads working all over D.C. Your future mentors.

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Job Board Access

Exclusive job postings from mission-aligned employers actively looking for you.

Leadership

Stephen Catanzarite

Executive Director ยท MSE '12

โ€œWe want our students to have both the opportunity and encouragement to thoughtfully engage with the government and the legal and cultural landscape of our nation, guided by moral principles that positively shape society.โ€

Justo Oppus

Director ยท '24

Justo graduated from Franciscan University in 2024 and brings a unique blend of program management and technical expertise to the mission. With experience coordinating events and programs for Catholic young professionals in D.C. and beyond, he helps students navigate the intersection of faith, purpose, and career with practical tools and authentic community.

Alex McKenna

Program Coordinator

Alex supports the day-to-day operations of the Homeland Mission, helping coordinate student trips, manage partnerships, and ensure every participant has a meaningful experience in Washington, D.C. His dedication to the mission helps keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes.