Rutherford, NJ— Felician University’s Honors Program is more than just a designation for high-achieving students with exceptional academic experience. Rooted in the university’s Franciscan Values, this program provides multiple pathways for expanded research, mentorship, civic engagement, and community service, allowing students to grow in their personal and professional lives.

In recognition of Women’s History Month, the Honors Program stands as a reflection of Felician’s commitment to elevating and supporting women in higher education. Women make up nearly two-thirds of Felician’s student body, which was one of the key reasons it was named the #1 College for Women in New Jersey by Newsweek. The Honors Program has been instrumental in this recognition, fostering a learning environment where female leadership is celebrated and supported.

The University Honors Student Leadership Council, which is responsible for the growth and enrichment of the Honors Program, currently comprises an all-women board. Balancing athletics, classes, and employment, council members are responsible for fostering a platform where students can advance the Felician mission, put practical skills into action, and express their creativity through community activations and social programming.

Over the years, the Honors Program has been an active participant in numerous campus-wide events, including open houses, food drives, and fundraisers. Event involvement is just the first step in ensuring each student gains leadership, interpersonal, and professional development skills applicable beyond the campus. Each initiative focuses on providing streamlined assistance to marginalized populations in need of access to healthcare, food, and other essential resources, ensuring the benefits are felt deeply within the communities they serve. Many students have contributed to these efforts by volunteering in medical facilities, churches, and veteran centers, as well as engaging in international service opportunities.

Women in the Honors Program also account for the top 10% of their graduating class. This accomplishment demonstrates that, despite managing busy schedules, success is possible when students are provided with the tools, opportunities, and mentorship needed to excel, empowering them to grow as skilled leaders both inside and beyond the classroom.

“I am incredibly proud of the strength, dedication, and achievements within this honors program, especially the way our young women continue to lead with confidence and purpose,” said Dr. Sharon Towler, Associate Dean of Academic Achievement, Performance, and the Honors Program. “Their voices, ideas, and leadership are not only shaping the program today but will define its future. I have no doubt that women will continue to play a vital role in driving its success and inspiring the next generation to rise.”

The Honors Program continues to shape students into thoughtful and driven individuals who carry a strong sense of purpose well beyond their time at Felician. With a foundation built on leadership, curiosity, and service, graduates leave prepared to navigate new opportunities with confidence. The impact of the program is not only seen in their academic achievements, but in how they serve with compassion, lead with intention, and make a meaningful impact on the world around them

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About Felician University

Felician University is committed to supporting academic success at any stage of life. With over 2,700 undergraduate, graduate, and adult education students enrolled across the Schools of Arts & Sciences, Business & Information Sciences, Nursing, and Education, Felician provides diverse learning experiences that equip all students with the skills to meet the demands of today’s society. Over the past five years, Felician University has consistently ranked 3rd among private institutions in New Jersey for best value according to payscale.com and Money Magazine and has been recognized as one of the best college locations in New Jersey (#4) according to niche.com. Our Master of Science in Nursing program is ranked one of the best online graduate nursing programs in the nation by U.S. News and World Report and the Princeton Review. We are proud to be designated as a Military Friendly School (Gold Status) for the fifteenth year, a testament to our dedicated support of Veteran students. Our diversity as an HSI (Hispanic Serving Institution) and MSI (Minority Serving Institution), with underrepresented students comprising more than half of the student population, reflects our inclusive and supportive environment and earned us a spot on Washington Monthly’s Top 100 HSI list (#30). With campuses in Rutherford and Lodi, New Jersey, our Franciscan values of respect for human dignity, compassion, and social justice are woven into the very foundation and development of tomorrow’s leaders. Felician University is sponsored by Felician Sisters International.  For more information, please visit https://felician.edu.