Brother Hernán Santos, FSC, president of Bethlehem University, and Ms. Shahinda Nassar, advancement office manager, have met with members of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem (EOHSJ) – USA Northern Lieutenancy during a gathering held in Winona, Minnesota.

The gathering was thoughtfully organized by Sir Mark Scheitel and Dame Sidna Tulledge-Scheitel, Presidents of the Winona–Rochester Section, and brought together members of the Lieutenancy in a spirit of solidarity and support for Bethlehem University and the Holy Land.

Among those in attendance were Sir Mark Scheitel and Dame Sidna Tulledge-Scheitel, Presidents of the Winona–Rochester Section; Dame Paula Wick and Sir Joe Wick, incoming Presidents of the Section; Dame Bonnie Brever and Sir Tom Brever, Presidents of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Greater Minnesota Section; Dame Mary Partington and Sir Michael Partington, former GRACE co-chairs; Dame Donna Milner, supporter of the Holy Land Commission; and Sir Tim Milner, member of the Holy Land Commission.

During the gathering, Brother Hernán provided an update on Bethlehem University and spoke about the realities facing its students, their families, and the wider University community. He shared how the ongoing economic and social challenges continue to affect students’ educational journeys and daily lives, while reaffirming the University’s commitment to ensuring access to quality higher education despite these difficult circumstances.

Brother Hernán and Shahinda also explained how Bethlehem University is responding to the growing needs of its community while continuing to carry out its educational mission. The University remains focused on preserving access to education, supporting students through difficult circumstances, and helping them complete their degrees and prepare to contribute through their professions and service to their communities.

The gathering reflected the longstanding connection between Bethlehem University and the EOHSJ- USA Northern Lieutenancy. Bethlehem University extends its sincere gratitude to everyone who took part in the gathering for the warm welcome, generous time, thoughtful conversation, and solidarity shown toward the University, its students, and the people of the Holy Land.

Bethlehem University also expresses its special appreciation to His Excellency Shawn T. Cleary, Lieutenant of the EOHSJ- USA Northern Lieutenancy, for his support in making the gathering possible and for the lieutenancy’s continued commitment to the University and its students.