Evan Collins
Instructor, Evangelium Institute (Omaha, NE), Expected graduation May 2025, Master of Arts in Theological Studies with a focus on Systematic Theology
“After receiving my bachelor’s, God was nudging me to pursue further theological studies. I wanted to go to a school where I would be well-formed, I wanted it to be worth my time, and I wanted my education to be more than just a piece of paper. I also needed flexibility to take classes while raising a family and I didn’t want to move us from Nebraska to New York.
I took advantage of St. Bernard’s One Free Summer Audit by taking a class taught by Father VanLieshout, Dr. Matthew Kuhner, and Dr. Stephen Loughlin – and quickly I knew I needed to matriculate. I could tell that the professors knew what they were talking about and had a kneeling faith. The professors have been like mentors to me. I can reach out to them for help with practical decisions, advice, counsel, and spiritual direction. They treat their teaching with reverence. The professors actually want to walk with you, to steward you in a personal way - it’s authentic pedagogy. They are so flexible and understanding. You can have deep relationships with them.
If I had not enrolled at St. Bernard’s, I think I would have made some decisions regarding ministry that would have burned me out. I wouldn't have these rich experiences to draw from. I would have gotten frustrated with the “humanness” of the church, its near-sightedness, and my own pride. Serving the Church can be hard! Without St. Bernard’s, I think I would have ended up in a really tough spot. I’m looking forward to seeing my professors in person for graduation this May. It will be like a homecoming moment.”
Laura Brand
Director of Religious Education, Our Lady of the Visitation (Kiowa, CO), Expected graduation December 2026, Master of Divinity
“I received a Bachelor of Theology at Catholic International University and was looking for a Master of Divinity program. My sons are 13 and 16 and I homeschool them, and we did not want to move across the country, and by the Grace of God I was blessed to find St. Bernard’s. The biggest difference about St. Bernard’s – starting with my very first interaction with Admissions Director, Matt Brown – is the human touch. St. Bernard’s classes are offered live on Zoom instead of everything being a recording; this is unique. In most distance learning schools, the only interaction is on discussion boards.
My best memory of St. Bernard’s has been the class on contemplative prayer. We spent four weeks in class then we all flew out to the monastery in Geneseo, NY. We had daily sessions with Professor Lisa Lickona and Father Isaac at the monastery and spent a lot of time in prayer. It allowed me to develop contemplative prayer practices in my life and to meet my fellow classmates in person. I even went out there again recently for a small weekend retreat with some of the same group. It's quite a gift to have classmates on this journey together, and spending time at the monastery allowed us time to share our heart when not in class. These spiritual friendships are deep and challenging in great ways.
One thing that I love about St. Bernard’s is that they are very focused not just on the teaching of theology but the practical application to live it out in your everyday life. Everyone here seems to want to live a good and holy life. Whether you are a diaconate candidate or a layperson or you take the One Free Summer Audit, with a St. Bernard’s education you can better communicate the love of God, recognize His movement in your life, and understand why it matters.”
Fred Rodriguez
Teacher of Theology and Philosophy, Father Duenas Memorial School (Mangilao, Guam), Expected graduation May 2025, Master of Arts in Catholic Philosophy
“After earning my Bachelor of Arts from the Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology, I found myself longing for deeper formation. When I discovered St. Bernard’s, I was immediately drawn by its connection to Venerable Archbishop Fulton Sheen – but what truly set it apart was its faithful adherence to the magisterium, asynchronous learning structure, unique Master of Arts in Catholic Philosophy, and full accreditation.
The education I’ve received here has been transformative. Studying under professors like Dr. Stango, Dr. Loughlin, Dr. Pietropaoli, and Dr. van Versendaal has felt like being forged and refined – like a blade in the fire, purified and strengthened. They are master craftsmen in the art of philosophical formation.
My classmates and I have even formed strong bonds through online study sessions. There’s a spiritual and intellectual dynamism here that has made me not only a better teacher, but a better Catholic. Had I not applied to St. Bernard’s, I would still be longing for that deeper formation—and frustrated in my teaching.
I’ve taught high school for 14 years, and when I was recently asked to teach philosophy, St. Bernard’s gave me the tools to do more than just teach a lesson. It helped me connect with my students on a deeper level—mind to mind, heart to heart. Inspired by the example of my professors, I strive to show my students that I care not just about what they know, but about who they are and what they’re becoming. That is the kind of impact this school makes."
