Founders Week is an annual celebration of the University’s rich heritage and the Dominican Sisters who founded it.
The Dominican tradition traces its roots back to the 1200s with Saint Dominic, the founder of the Dominican Order. Men and women of exceptional character, spirit, and action, inspired by Saint Dominic’s values, have carried forward the Dominican mission of truth-seeking, reflective thought, and compassionate involvement.
Each year, we commemorate our founders with a series of events including service projects, guest lectures, and the presentation of the Spirit of the Founders Award.
One of the highlights of the week is the Preaching in Action Service Event, where students are invited to engage in the four pillars of Dominican life. This culminates in a Weekend of Service and initiatives such as packing 10,000 meals to serve those in need, embodying the Dominican values of compassion and action.
These events, along with the activities listed below, offer opportunities to reflect on our heritage, deepen our connection to the Dominican mission, and live out the spirit of our founders
Founders Week Mass
We begin the week on Sunday with prayer and a celebration of our saints, marking the start of Founders Week. Mass is at 5:30pm in the Motherhouse Chapel and all are welcome.
Founders Week Keynote
Dr. Walter Hidalgo delivered the keynote address in 2025 called “Saint Martin de Porres Got Bars: Hip-Hop, Healing and Holiness in the Streets“. Dr. Hidalgo is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in education, coaching, and community engagement. Originally from Guatemala, he currently serves as a Mission Education Specialist Promoter at Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers.
Living the Legacy
Each year, an alum of Dominican University reflects on how they continue to embody the Dominican tradition post-graduation. For 2025, Alum and Assistant Dean of Student Development and Title IX Coordinator at Dominican University, Jonathan Delgado spoke to students about how he is “Living the Legacy” as he serves as a New York State EMT and as Chief of the Nanuet Community Ambulance Corps.
The Spirit of the Founders Awards
The Spirit of the Founders Award honors special students and a faculty or staff member who exemplifies the values and characteristics of our founders. Nominations are submitted by students, faculty, and staff. The Spirit of the Founders committee selects the awardees. This prestigious award represents a respect for the enduring values of the Dominican tradition and recognizes the recipients’ potential as future leaders.
How can you aspire to win this award?
We challenge you to reflect on your own unique spirit and gifts, inspired by our founders. Consider the following questions:
- Who among them inspires you? Who is most like yourself?
- How does this relate to your education and to your future?
- How can you incorporate their values in your pursuit of truth?
- Are you ready to answer the call for action in the 21st century?
- Will you be the next recipient of the Spirit of the Founders Award?