“Travis Vermulm (second from left) meeting with fellow Argos in a Providence Formation discussion group.”

The University of Great Falls has a new name: the UNIVERSITY OF PROVIDENCE (UP). On June 13, University President Dr. Anthony Aretz announced both the new name and a new School of Health Professions, in conjunction with UP’s parent organization, Providence St. Joseph Health (PSJH). The new name honors the founding of the University by the Sisters of Providence, and the substantial support given by PSJH.

The School of Liberal Arts and Sciences will remain in Great Falls, and continue to offer both undergraduate and graduate degrees as before. “This is a significant turning point for the University of Providence,” Aretz notes. “Now, we can expand both academics and athletics, and enhance student programming and facilities.” Dr. Aretz and his team have spent the last year developing the Argo Advantage, which offers students a core curriculum rooted in the Catholic Intellectual Tradition, a four-year graduation guarantee, a student loan repayment plan and career placement services.

The new School of Health Professions will offer courses both online and at satellite campuses. The first satellite campus is expected to be in Puget Sound, Washington. Professional and certificate programs include an RN to BSN program and applied health informatics, as well as graduate programs in healthcare administration and epidemiology. PSJH employees and their family members are eligible for tuition discounts for most programs.

Sports fans will still root for the Argos! Wrestler Travis Vermulm is pleased to be an athlete at a school that values his extracurricular interests. “Being an Argo is all about the opportunities you can find at a smaller school,” says the senior English major. “I get to be an everyman, even a Renaissance man.” He played John Adams in the Argo production of 1776 last spring, and is directing a play this fall. The new Argo Advantage is designed to appeal to multi-talented students like Vermulm.

The idea of changing the name of the university has been discussed for decades. Mary Willmarth, an alumna and former staff member, recalls, “Even Sister Rita Mudd considered putting the word, ‘Providence,’ in our name back in the 1960’s.” But, they did not. Willmarth points to the humility of the founding Sisters. “They were never ones to ring their own bells. I am thrilled that this new name will honor their heritage.”

The faculty and staff remain committed to a superior education for their students. “The people who have poured their lives into it are the real story behind this great University. I proudly support the University of Providence and all those who make it such a special place,” emphasizes Deacon Bob Ferguson, class of 2008.

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