Project Catalyst – the five-year initiative supported by the Title III funding – aims to increase enrollment, persistence, and retention of low-income, first generation, Black and Hispanic students campuswide. The university has said it also seeks to help College of Health Sciences associate of science and exploratory health care students. Saint Francis was among about 100 institutions nationwide awarded funds through the federal Strengthening Institutions Program. The funded projects in fiscal year 2023 included only one other Hoosier institution – Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion, according to the U.S. Department of Education. The National Center for Education Statistics shows Saint Francis had an overall 61% graduation rate for full-time, first-time students who began their studies in fall 2017.