Christian Brothers University and Lewis University Sign Letter of Intent to Explore Transformative Partnership
ROMEOVILLE—Lewis University and Christian Brothers University (CBU) have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to explore a bold and transformative partnership aimed at expanding access to high-quality Lasallian education and amplifying the mission and values both institutions share.
“With Memphis being home to industry leaders in distribution, engineering, transportation, technology, and healthcare, this potential partnership allows us to explore new ways to meet regional needs,” said Dr. David Livingston, President of Lewis University. “By leveraging our complementary strengths, we believe there is potential to extend the impact of the Lasallian mission beyond what either of us could achieve alone.”
A Vision for the Future
The signing of the LOI initiates a collaborative planning process designed to evaluate how a formal alliance could best support the futures of both universities. This journey will include in-depth consultation with internal stakeholders, alumni, community leaders, and industry partners.
Through this process, the institutions seek to co-create a shared vision that preserves their distinct identities while advancing a collective commitment to excellence, service, and innovation in higher education.
Why Christian Brothers University?
CBU stands at a pivotal moment in its 154-year legacy of service to Memphis and the Mid-South. Nearly 70 percent of its graduates remain in the region, contributing to local communities and economies. A strategic partnership with Lewis University could better position CBU to grow and thrive, aligning academic programs with emerging workforce demands and strengthening its role as a regional anchor institution.
“This process is about envisioning what’s possible at CBU — academically, financially, and in how we serve our students and city,” said Brother Chris Englert, FSC, Interim President of CBU. “By considering a partnership with Lewis, we’re taking a step toward a stronger, more sustainable future while remaining rooted in our faith in God and the Lasallian mission that has guided us for more than 150 years.”
Memphis, home to global headquarters like FedEx, AutoZone, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, offers a vibrant ecosystem for innovation and industry-academic collaboration. This partnership is poised to elevate both institutions’ ability to meet regional and national needs.
Next Steps
In the coming months, representatives from both universities will engage their campus communities and external partners to assess opportunities and challenges. Throughout the 2025–26 fiscal year, both institutions will hold a series of forums, listening sessions, and strategic planning activities to determine the most beneficial path forward.
This LOI signals a shared commitment to explore bold possibilities that strengthen Lasallian education for generations to come.
To stay informed about this developing partnership, visit www.cbu.edu.
###
About Christian Brothers University:
Christian Brothers University (CBU) is a private Lasallian Catholic university in Memphis, Tennessee, committed to academic excellence and service-based leadership. With a student-centered approach, CBU provides a mission-driven education in an inclusive and supportive environment. For more information, visitwww.cbu.edu.
About Lewis University:
Lewis University is a modern, enterprising, Catholic university with a growing student enrollment from GED through doctoral level programs. As part of the global Lasallian network of 65 universities, Lewis is known for preparing graduates who impact the world for the better. Visit www.lewisu.edu for further information.
A photograph of the letter signing is available at:
Caption: (L to R) Brother Chris Englert, FSC, Interim President of CBU, and Dr. David Livingston, President of Lewis University sign a Letter of Intent.
A video announcement is available at:
One University Parkway • Romeoville, IL 60416-2200
Office: (815) 836-5711 • Fax: (815) 838-1267 • skonicka@lewisu.edu • www.lewisu.edu
Sites: ROMEOVILLE • ALBUQUERQUE • CHICAGO • OAK BROOK
Connect with #LewisU on social media: Facebook X Instagram YouTube
