On April 22, Nassau Community College will open its Center for Catholic Studies. The community college, which is located in Garden City, Long Island, is one of over 50 colleges and universities that are part of the State University of New York system of higher education. The newly appointed director is Dr. Joseph Varacalli, a prominent sociologist and active Catholic League member.
The opening day festivities, which start at 1:30 pm at the College Center Building, are open to the public. Dr. William Donohue will give the keynote address. His topic is, “Religious Discrimination as a Social Problem.” Also speaking are Dr. Candace de Russy and Dr. Paul Vitz. Father Robert Batule, of Corpus Christi Church in Mineola, will act as moderator of this panel.
The purpose of the Center for Catholic Studies is to provide a clear understanding of Catholic social thought as it relates to academic scholarship and the mission of higher education. Based on the principles of multiculturalism, the Center is unique in that it is housed on the campus of a secular institution.
The Catholic League extends its most sincere congratulations to Dr. Varacalli for pioneering this important effort. We hope it serves as a model for other such centers on campuses throughout the nation.
