The new San Damiano College for the Trades in Springfield, Illinois, set to open in the fall of 2025, is a unique educational institution that aims to blend Catholic liberal arts education with practical training in a trade. Spearheaded by Kent J. Lasnoski, a former associate professor of theology at Wyoming Catholic College, and Bishop Thomas J. Paprocki of the Diocese of Springfield, the school is poised to offer a transformative educational experience for its students.
Kent J. Lasnoski, in a recent interview with OSV News’ Charlie Camosy, shared insights into his journey as a moral theologian and his vision for the San Damiano College for the Trades. Lasnoski’s background in moral theology, particularly in the areas of marriage and family life, as well as medical ethics, has equipped him with a unique perspective on the intersection of faith, education, and work.
The San Damiano College for the Trades is envisioned as a place where students can not only acquire practical skills in various trades but also deepen their understanding of Catholic teachings and values. The curriculum is designed to help students integrate their work into a life centered on holiness and the common good. In a three-year program, students will engage in methods of discernment, participate in pilgrimages, immerse themselves in the liturgical life of the Norbertine Chaplains, learn multiple trades, and earn an associate degree in the great books.
As the founding president of the college, Kent J. Lasnoski plays a pivotal role in shaping the institution’s mission and direction. His background in educational theory and moral formation, coupled with his experience in teaching the great books model, has prepared him for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Lasnoski’s commitment to creating a new model of higher education that emphasizes the dignity of work and the integration of faith and learning is evident in his work at San Damiano College.
The establishment of the San Damiano College for the Trades reflects a broader shift in Catholic higher education towards a more holistic and integrated approach to learning. With many small Catholic colleges facing financial challenges, there is a growing need for innovative funding models that prioritize affordability and accessibility. The pay-as-you-earn model adopted by San Damiano College aims to make education more affordable and sustainable for students.
In addition to addressing financial concerns, the college is also focused on redefining the pedagogical approach to education. By combining moral, spiritual, and intellectual formation with practical skills training, San Damiano College offers a comprehensive educational experience that prepares students for both personal and professional success. This holistic approach to education aligns with the broader trends in Catholic moral theology, which emphasize the importance of contextual understanding and personal transformation.
Ultimately, the vision of the San Damiano College for the Trades is rooted in a deep appreciation for the Catholic tradition of work and the inherent dignity of human labor. Inspired by the teachings of St. John Paul II and Joseph Pieper, the college seeks to instill in its students a theology of work that recognizes the value of human creativity and the importance of leisure as a form of worship. Through its innovative approach to education, San Damiano College is poised to make a significant impact on the landscape of Catholic higher education and the lives of its students.