For more than a century, one program has quietly shaped some of the Church’s most prominent thinkers. The Basselin Scholars Program has educated seminarians for more than 100 years. The program was established by the generous bequest of Theodore Basselin for the education of the Church’s “very best and brightest” seminarians in philosophy, rhetoric, and homiletics. A cornerstone of The Catholic University of America’s School of Philosophy, it continues to shape the next generation of priests and scholars through rigorous intellectual and spiritual formation.
The Basselin Program is in need of additional support. Our goal is to raise $3 million by the end of 2027.
These testimonials demonstrate the profound impact that the Basselin Scholars Program has on seminarians.
"The program has shaped the way we think about the world and about our vocation. We are continually invited to engage the most profound and enduring questions of human existence, guided by faculty who accompany us in dialogue with the great thinkers of the philosophical tradition. This shared pursuit has not only sharpened our minds but also fostered friendships and habits of reflection that will remain with us long after our formal studies conclude."
Nico Broussard
Seminarian, Diocese of Lafayette
"My studies in philosophy at Catholic University have been deeply formative, both intellectually and personally. Through engaging with fundamental questions about truth, meaning, and the human person, I have learned not only how to think more clearly, but how to attend more carefully to the world and to others. Philosophy has given me a framework for understanding reality at its deepest level, and the habits of reflection, humility, and discernment that I have developed here will continue to guide me long after graduation. "
Christopher Hanrahan
Seminarian, Archdiocese of New York
"Beyond the academic program itself, the Basselin Program has introduced me to some of the finest men I have met in my formation: my fellow Basselins. A hallmark of the program is the chance to study alongside men who are dedicated to learning and committed to discerning the priesthood of Jesus Christ. The program currently has nine members, creating a unique fraternity I have not encountered elsewhere. My fellow Basselins have been the first to support me in times of difficulty and the first to celebrate with me in moments of success. Their presence has profoundly shaped my growth as a human being and as a future priest."
Liam Leonard
Seminarian, Diocese of Lake Charles
“As I reflect on my time in the program, I can say with confidence that it has profoundly shaped the way I think and has deeply enriched my life. I had attempted the study of philosophy before becoming a Basselin, but I have come to learn that good philosophy requires both rigorous formation and a community of peers who are equally committed to the pursuit of truth.”
Trenton Thieneman
Seminarian, Archdiocese of Louisville
“By forming seminarians in rhetoric and advanced philosophy before ordination, the Basselin Program equips us to serve the Church with intellectual clarity, pastoral creativity, and a readiness to meet a world that increasingly demands thoughtful, rational engagement on matters of faith. Your generosity directly sustains this vital mission, and its fruits will echo throughout dioceses across the United States for decades to come.”
Wheeler Wilson
Seminarian, Diocese of Orlando
Immediate Basselin Scholars Program Impact
In order to address the program’s urgent needs for the upcoming Basselin classes, a current use fund has been established. This fund does not replace the existing Basselin Scholar Endowment Fund, but will provide additional funding for the program’s present scholarship needs.
Your Support | Student Outcome |
| $1-10,000 | Fund hardship and scholarship needs |
| $22,500 | Fund ½ of a scholar |
| $45,000 | Fund one (1) scholar per year |
Long-Term Support of the Endowment
Gifts to the endowment support the perpetuity of the program. For more information or to make a gift, contact Lauren Pizzella at pizzella [at] cua.edu (pizzella[at]cua[dot]edu) or 202-319-4439.
Multi-Year or Estate Gifts | Annual Support | Student Outcome |
| $250,000 | $11,250 | Fund ¼ of a scholar |
| $500,000 | $22,500 | Fund ½ of a scholar |
| $1,000,000 | $45,000 | Fund one (1) scholar per year |
*Endowments produce an annual pay out of approximately 4.5%
Our vision for the program is to fully finance the education of six Basselin Scholars per year by increasing the endowment by $3 million. Currently, the Basselin Endowment is valued at $4.3 million and supports four scholars per year.
The Basselin Scholars Program has trained many of the Church’s great thinkers and leaders in the Catholic philosophical tradition, including:
