College Launches into the World of Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube
I
In an effort to keep up with today’s ever-changing technological world, Christendom’s Admissions and Marketing Office recently dove headfirst into the world of social networking, particularly, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. “So many today are keeping in touch with each other on these social networking sites,” says Admissions Director Tom McFadden. “We have to be able to reach our constituents where they are. With the use of these new technologies, we are now able to communicate with students, alumni, parents, faculty, staff, and donors in a more efficient—and fun—manner.” Christendom’s Facebook page was created at the end of July, and since then has gathered over 1100 “fans.” Anyone who becomes a fan may take advantage of the wealth of information available on the Christendom Facebook page, including the latest news updates, event invitations, over 50 different photo albums (with lots of nostalgic pictures), as well as much sharing of information amongst the fans. “Christendom’s Facebook page is a great way to feel connected to my daughter while she is away,” says Marie Kokes, mother of Sophomore Jane Kokes. “The updates allow me to keep current with all of the College events while also offering a unique opportunity to get to know both the College and the dedicated people involved with it a lot better. Sharing Christendom’s updates with all of my Facebook friends is an easy way not only to get the message out about all the worthwhile activities the students are involved in, but also to brag about how awesome my daughter’s school is! The page is so addictive, I have become more than a fan. I am now officially a stalker.” Besides Facebook, Christendom has also launched a Twitter account, and is gaining “followers” as word spreads. Christendom’s Tweets are on a variety of topics, especially news about the College and related article links. Christendom’s YouTube video channel, dubbed ChristendomTube, has been a great addition as well. The College is able to post some of its promotional videos, guest lectures, commercials, and videos from some of its various student activities up on the site for anyone to see. Most recently, a short video from Christendom’s Mega Shield event (see cover story) was posted and then was emailed and shared by many people all over the internet, thus mak-
8
ing it easier for others to learn more about the unique educational opportunities that Christendom provides its students. “As a prospective student, I spent a lot of time online, researching many good Catholic colleges, and I found that Christendom’s website and ability to stay technologically current was a great advantage and definitely helped me learn more about Christendom,” says Freshman Natalie Lucas. “Everything, from the weekly Chronicler Online, to Mr. McFadden’s weekly email updates, to the videos and news stories —they were all very helpful in my selection process. Now that I am a student and I can get regular updates about what’s going on around campus through the Facebook page, it just helps us all stay connected even better.” Alumna Kathy (Moriarty) Williams, ’91, is also a big fan of the College’s Facebook page. “I absolutely love Christendom’s Facebook Page! I especially enjoy seeing the old pictures of cherished times [like those on the right]—it brings back the fondest memories and makes me feel as if we (as alumni) are still so connected to one another. Christendom’s Facebook page enhances and solidifies that indelible union we share as Christendom alumni and family.”
From the President... Our long-term strategy is to form highly educated, articulate, intelligent, Catholic leaders who will give us the type of leadership which will be required for the troubled times of the twenty-first century. We are doing this but we can continue only with your support. Because of the crucial times we are living in, I ask for even greater support than you have given previously. I honestly believe that together we can make a difference for the future. With all my heart I exhort you, I beg you, to continue and augment, if possible, the support you have given to Christendom. I can assure you of the College’s fidelity to Christ, to His Church, and to serving this great nation of ours. Together we can turn things around. Together we can make a difference for the future…changing the world one student at a time. As our late Holy Father Pope John Paul II told me before his death, in a private audience that he granted to Christendom stu-
Christendom’s campus in 1988.
The 1987-88 Men’s Basketball Team.
The O’Donnells with Fr. John Hardon in 1989. continued from page 2 dents studying in Rome, “Christendom is doing a great work for the Church.” We are offering an education for life that is Catholic both in its universality and in its fidelity to the Truth of the Catholic Faith–that Truth which sets us free. It is an education informed throughout by Faith. This is why Pope Benedict XVI, when I met with him, said, “Thank you! Thank you so much for all that you are doing.” In an unfaithful age, let us strive together for fidelity. In an age which extols self-indulgence, let us together seek the heroism of Faith. In an apostate age which has turned its back upon Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, let us together boldly affirm this Christmas that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Thank you so much for all your support. We simply would not be here without you. May our newborn Infant King shower you with blessings during this season of grace and joy! Have a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!