Calumet College of St. Joseph update April 2026

One of the service projects that we perform at CCSJ is what we call the “Sandwich Project.” Every Wednesday, students and staff gather to make sandwiches as part of a meal for those in need. The project began in February 2021, and since then, over 40,000 meals have been made. Until recently, these have been distributed by Port Ministries in the Chicago Back of the Yards neighborhood. Recently, however, we have expanded to bring meals to the St. Joseph Soup Kitchen here in Hammond, Indiana. We receive financial support from our Peace and Justice Fund, and last year, we were awarded a $15,000 grant (paid over three years) from the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ. These donations certainly help, especially in light of higher supply costs. 

We held our annual Grad Finale on March 11. At this time, our soon-to-be graduates get their caps and gowns, invitations, and tickets for commencement and make sure everything is in order for graduation on May 12. This is always a fun day to see the excitement on students’ faces as they prepare for this milestone in their lives. Later this month, April 23, we will hold our Grad Toast for all degree candidates. It is a nice gathering with hors d’oeuvres and a champagne toast for our graduates. 

On March 14, Mass and brunch for our St. Joseph’s Society members took place. The St. Joseph’s Society is composed of some of the larger donors to the college. On March 19, we celebrated the feast of St. Joseph with our annual St. Joseph’s Table. A number of our faculty/staff contributed goodies for all to enjoy on our patronal feast.  

Our presidential search committee has been working hard to find our next president. We hope to be doing on-campus interviews during this month, and a recommendation will be made to the board of trustees with a candidate for president. 

At this time of year, we have traditionally held our Scholarship Gala, however, this year we are trying something a little different. On May 1, we will be hosting a special event in honor of our 75th anniversary called “Soiree on Seven.” This invitation-only event celebrates our 75th anniversary of educating students and supporting the next generation of students. The event will be held on the newly renovated 7th floor Heritage Room with views of the region, Lake Michigan, and Chicago.