Rosemont is proud to celebrate the impactful work of Dr. Christine Hagedorn, who recently participated in a significant international symposium in the Canary Islands, Spain. This high level gathering brought together global leaders, scholars, advocates, migrants, and refugees to address human dignity, migration, and global citizenship.
This international symposium was organized by the Refugees and Migrants in our Common Home organization, which is a part of the Villanova Cabrini Institute for Immigration Studies. They organized this international symposium to achieve four goals: Service, Advocacy, Scholarship and Research Related to Immigration Matters Affecting Our World.
The conference gained international attention as Pope Leo XIV planned to be in the Canary Islands to draw attention to displaced persons, migrants, and refugees, and combat human trafficking.
Dr. Hagedorn’s Global Leadership
Dr. Hagedorn represented both Rosemont College and the Society of the Holy Child Jesus at this prestigious symposium. As a faculty member deeply committed to social justice, she contributed meaningfully to conversations on systems thinking approaches to human displacement.
During the four day event, participants listened to powerful personal stories from migrants, engaged in prayer and reflection, attended Mass with Pope Leo XIV, and exchanged scholarly ideas.
In addition, Dr. Hagedorn had the honor of presenting her research on educational and financial access for migrant families, highlighting practical solutions to support integration and dignity. Her participation demonstrates the College’s ongoing commitment to addressing real world challenges through education, advocacy, and encounter.
As Dr. Hagedorn noted, meaningful change begins with personal encounters and grows through collaboration across borders and disciplines.
"The format of the symposium was unique and unlike any professional conference I've ever attended. Kudos to the organizers who created a framework where, as one of my colleagues said, 'We could stop studying migration from a distance and learn about it standing alongside the people who live it every day.' During our four days together we served, shared, discerned, gathered resources, created community, and witnessed hope and reconciliation. For me, an important takeaway is the actions we can take and the blueprint taking shape. As one of our colleagues said, every little thing we do matters. Our varied encounters throughout the week taught me so much and revealed to me new ways that I can heed the call to action in support of Refugees and Migrants in Our Common Home."
A Proud Moment for the Rosemont Community
Events like this underscore the importance of academic institutions engaging with global issues. Christine Hagedorn’s presence at the symposium not only elevated Rosemont’s profile but also reinforced the College’s dedication to forming compassionate, globally minded leaders.
We are incredibly proud of Dr. Hagedorn’s contributions and grateful for the work she continues to do on behalf of Rosemont College. Her efforts remind us that education extends far beyond the classroom; it reaches into communities in need worldwide.
Congratulations, Dr. Hagedorn, on this meaningful achievement. Your work inspires our entire community to think globally and act with compassion!
