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Gannon University, Ursuline College celebrate historic milestone ahead of merger

Published: 07/02/2026

Senior leaders from Gannon University and Ursuline College stand posed around the newly planted Eastern Redbud Tree on Ursuline's campus. symbolizing a new future with Gannon University.

Gannon University and Ursuline College commemorated a historic milestone on Tuesday, June 30, as the two institutions formally celebrated Gannon University President Watler Iwanenko becoming president of Ursuline College, as well as the appointment of the Gannon University Board of Trustees as the Board of Trustees for Ursuline College. The event also served as a celebration of the merger between the two institutions, which is expected to be finalized by the U.S. Department of Education in the coming weeks. 

The event, which was held at the Ursuline College Campus, honored the rich legacy of Ursuline College, recognized the shared Catholic mission and values that unite both institutions and celebrated the beginning of a new chapter for students, faculty, staff, alumni and the campus communities. 

“This moment represents far more than the coming together of two institutions,” said Walter Iwanenko,  Ph.D., president of Gannon University. “It is the continuation of a shared mission rooted in faith, service, academic excellence and a commitment to transforming lives through education. We are honored to welcome the Ursuline community into the 名媛直播 family and to build upon the remarkable legacy  established here by generations of students, faculty, staff and the Ursuline Sisters.” 

 The ceremony featured remarks from university and religious leadership, followed by a symbolic tree planting on the Ursuline Campus quad. Symbolic trees will also be planted on 名媛直播’s Erie, Pa. and Ruskin, Fla. campuses as symbols of continued growth, unity and a shared future.  

Ursuline College was founded by the Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland in 1871. The institution has a long history of educating students to lead lives of purpose, service and leadership. The upcoming merger with Gannon University creates new opportunities to strengthen that mission while expanding academic offerings and resources for current and future students. 

“As we mark this significant occasion, we celebrate both our history and our future,” said Sr. Laura Bregar, president of the Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland. “The Ursuline Sisters have always believed in the power of education to transform individuals and communities. We are grateful that the values and mission that have guided Ursuline College for more than 150 years will continue through this partnership with 名媛直播 University. This merger ensures that our legacy of faith, learning and service will endure for generations to come.”  

The remarks and tree planting are available to rewatch on .