Recent News
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“Don’t Get Eaten” Released on Streaming
Mar. 04, 2025
Profs. George and Melinda Simon’s family zombie comedy was acquired by Freestyle Digital Media and is now available to rent or purchase.
“Letting Go of Jack” Awarded Best Drama at HRIFF
Feb. 24, 2025
Directed by Andrew Koltuniuk ‘20 and produced by alumni company The Guild, the film will premiere on March 9th at the Hollywood Reel Independent Film Festival in L.A.
Reflections from Sundance 2025
Feb. 04, 2025
Students who participated in the Sundance experience this year reflect on the trip and their top films from the festival.
Prof. Sorich’s Documentary Spotlights Life and Legacy of René Girard
Jan. 16, 2025
In Things Hidden: The Life and Legacy of René Girard, Sam Sorich offers a deeply personal portrait of the French philosopher, historian, and literary critic.
Musician Spotlight: Raphael Whalen ‘24
Dec. 16, 2024
Raphael’s cinematic pop album Origin is now available on Spotify and Apple Music.
First Class Relic of St. John Paul II Installed in JPCatholic’s Chapel
Oct. 22, 2024
The relic is a fragment of the pope’s garment with his blood, which he was wearing during the 1981 assassination attempt.
Orientation 2024
Sep. 30, 2024
Last weekend, JPCatholic welcomed 100 new freshmen and transfer students to campus for Orientation.
U.S. News Ranks JPCatholic Among Top Western Colleges
Sep. 24, 2024
Among the 104 colleges in the region, JPCatholic is ranked #10 overall, along with #3 in Best Value, the second consecutive year of increased rankings in both categories.
“No Reception” Premieres at the Ritz Theater
Sep. 10, 2024
The family comedy was produced by students and faculty as the second project in JPCatholic’s Feature Film Program.
Graduation 2024
Sep. 03, 2024
Our Graduation Week celebrations included the premiere of No Reception, a variety of senior showcase events, and Commencement for 90 new alumni.
Fashion Design Program Announced for Fall 2025
Aug. 09, 2024
JPCatholic is pleased to announce the addition of a Fashion Design emphasis within our BFA in Visual Arts, along with a new minor in Costume Design.
Novel Writing Capstone Connecting Students With Literary Agent
July 16, 2024
The Novel Writing III Class will provide students with one-on-one meetings for feedback from Catholic literary agent Anjanette Barr.
“Pelican’s Plume” Journal Wins Awards From Catholic Media Association
July 08, 2024
Students Delaney Rayner and Evan Mock were recognized for their excellence in layout, design, and photography for JPCatholic’s student journal.
Tickets available for “No Reception” premiere!
July 01, 2024
JPCatholic is proud to present No Reception, the second project in our Feature Film Program! The public is invited to join us for the family comedy on August 28th at the Ritz Theater.
Acting Practicums 2024
Apr. 30, 2024
From short films to theatre productions, our acting seniors have been busy in pre-production for their practicum projects!
“Pickle for Pickleball” Greenlit for JPCatholic’s Feature Film Program
Apr. 17, 2024
The comedy written by Anna Engel ‘24 is about an unlikely group of elderly women who find themselves caught up in a high-stakes pickleball tournament.
New Free Course: Storytelling & the Gospel
Apr. 15, 2024
Experience a deeper encounter with the Gospel message and the role storytelling plays within our lives as humans and as Christians.
JPCatholic Begins Construction on Creative Arts Academic Complex
Mar. 06, 2024
The 30k square foot property will more than double the University’s academic space.
Akimbo Studio Partners with JPCatholic for Student Internships & Jobs
Feb. 08, 2024
Founded by Nate Sjogren ‘11, the design studio will offer JPCatholic students first opportunity to apply for new openings.
Reflections from Sundance 2024
Jan. 30, 2024
Students who participated in the Sundance experience this year reflect on the trip and their top films from the festival.
Christmas Concert 2023
Dec. 15, 2023
This month JPCatholic hosted a public Christmas Concert led by Prof. Robert Giracello, PhD.
Senior Film Projects 2024
Dec. 14, 2023
The senior film capstones this year range from a cultural documentary to fantasy comedies and heartfelt dramas.
“A Tyranny of Kindness” – Alumni Q&A with Author Matt Sawczyn
Dec. 06, 2023
Matt Sawczyn ‘17 discusses his new dystopian novel, inspirations like Aldous Huxley and Dostoevsky, and his own journey as a storyteller.
Eucharistic Film Festival + Feature Film Pitch Night
Dec. 04, 2023
JPCatholic hosted a joint event to award $8k in prizes to the Eucharistic Film Festival winners, and to host our 3rd Annual Pitch Night for the Feature Film Program.
Alumni Feature “Letting Go of Jack” Wraps Production
Nov. 02, 2023
Written and directed by Andrew Koltuniuk, the road trip drama is a collaboration by a group of JPCatholic alumni through their production studio The Guild.
JPCatholic Acquires Relic of St. John Paul II
Oct. 23, 2023
The relic was announced to the student body on the saint’s feast day Oct. 22, and added to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Chapel on campus today.
JPCatholic Ranked #15 by U.S. News for Best Regional Colleges West
Sep. 18, 2023
Of the 103 school in the category, the University also ranked #4 in Best Value and #31 in Top Performers on Social Mobility.
Graduation 2023
Aug. 28, 2023
Congratulations to our Class of 2023! Click through to see this year’s Institutional Award winners and photos from Graduation Week.
“O, Brawling Love!” Premieres at the Ritz Theater
Aug. 25, 2023
The Shakespearean-inspired rom-com is the first project in JPCatholic’s Feature Film Program.
Faculty’s Film Screening: “Don’t Get Eaten”
Aug. 15, 2023
The indie feature is a family-friendly zombie comedy from Profs. George and Melinda Simon.
Alumnae Win Emmy for Documentary on POW Hero Fr. Kapaun
July 19, 2023
The documentary short was produced by Spirit Juice Studios and highlights Servant of God Fr. Emil Kapaun, a military chaplain who died in the Korean War.
JPCatholic Adds Emphases in Cinematography and Digital Music
July 10, 2023
The two new emphases will launch in 2024 under the B.S. in Communications Media.
Major Gift To Accelerate JPCatholic Chapel Renovation Project
June 13, 2023
A very generous $1M gift, which comes from a family who have asked to remain anonymous, brings JPCatholic closer to funding the St. Teresa of Calcutta Chapel renovations.
Feature Film Project “No Reception” Begins Production
June 5, 2023
No Reception, the second project in JPCatholic’s annual Feature Film Program, began principal photography today in the University’s soundstage.
Parents Weekend and Gala 2023
May 23, 2023
Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating our 20th anniversary this past weekend.
Spring Art Show
May 16, 2023
JPCatholic’s Art Club hosted their second annual art show at the Escondido Arts Partnership Municipal Gallery.
Yellow Line Digital Partners with JPCatholic for Student Internships and Jobs
Apr. 28, 2023
While a close relationship has existed, the formalized partnership gives JPCatholic students priority for future openings.
“Living an American Dream”–Alumna’s Documentary Spotlights the Cowboys and Cowgirls of Eastern Oregon
Apr. 18, 2023
The documentary from Clare McKay ‘18 gives an inside look at the rodeo lifestyle of her family’s ranching community.
JPCatholic Hosts Mural Mosaic’s Global Roots Project
Mar. 27, 2023
The University’s building at 220 W Grand Ave is now home to an America Connects mural representing over 1500 artists from the west coast.
Senior Film Projects 2023
Feb. 15, 2023
Our senior class has been busy in producing their capstone film projects! See the full list of short films, from Westerns and period epics, to heartfelt animated dramas.
Reflections from Sundance 2023
Feb. 8, 2023
Students who participated in the Sundance experience this year reflect on the trip and their top films from the festival.
Alumni Launch CatholicGigs.com with Seed Funding from Investor
Jan. 23, 2023
Paul Massell (‘13) and Jacob Spence (‘14) have raised one year of seed funding for their new entrepreneurial venture, an online Catholic job board.
“No Reception” Greenlit for Year 2 of JPCatholic’s Feature Film Program
Jan. 19, 2023
The film, written by students Mark Westin and Natalia Roberts, will enter production this June.
Entrepreneur Spotlight: Paul Massell & Jacob Spence
Dec. 16, 2022
Q&A with two JPCatholic alumni who founded New Eve Media, a video production service based in San Diego.
Alumni Spotlight: Creating Graphics for World Cup Qatar
Dec. 15, 2022
Three alumni at |drive| studio share about their experience creating motion graphics for the 2022 World Cup.
Alumna Haley Rossi Wins Emmy for Work With Spirit Juice Studios
Dec. 8, 2022
“Fill These Shoes”, a vocations video for the Archdiocese of Chicago, took home an Emmy in Outstanding Achievement in Branded Content at the Chicago/Midwest Emmy Awards. Watch the Film
Renovation on Creative Arts Academic Complex to Begin in 2023
Nov. 21, 2022
John Paul the Great Catholic University is pleased to announce that construction will begin early next year on the property at 131 S. Broadway in Escondido.
“What Remains” Gets December 2nd Release Date
Nov. 9, 2022
Prof. Scoggins’ murder mystery film What Remains will be simultaneously released in theaters and on streaming next month.
Theology of the Body and the Art of Acting
Nov. 4, 2022
Prof. Lee Eskey was live with Theology of the Body Institute today to discuss acting with Christopher West.
New LaunchPad Model Introduces Pitch Competitions for Seed and Growth Funding
Nov. 3, 2022
The newly restructured Business LaunchPad will include pitch competitions with the chance for two rounds of funding.
2nd Annual Feature Film Pitch Night
Oct. 20, 2022
Students and alumni submitted over 50 stories to be considered for next year’s project in the Feature Film Program. Six of those pitched to a panel of film professionals in front of a live audience.
Nathan Scoggins’ Film “What Remains” to Premiere at Austin Film Festival
Sep. 30, 2022
Written and directed by Prof. Scoggins, the film stars Anne Heche, Cress Williams, Kellan Lutz, and Marcus Gladney Jr.
Orientation 2022
Sep. 26, 2022
Last weekend, JPCatholic welcomed 113 new freshman and transfer students to campus for Orientation.
Student Bailey Garland Launches Weekly Show on JP2 Radio
Sep. 21, 2022
“Letter to Artists” is a weekly radio show and podcast offering conversations with students, faculty, and alumni about their creative pursuits and professions.
JPCatholic Ranked #19 by U.S. News for Best Regional Colleges West
Sep. 15, 2022
In addition, the University ranked #9 in Best Value and #14 in Top Performers on Social Mobility.
Graphic Design Capstone: Working on Client Projects
Aug. 29, 2022
Through Prof. Del Rosario's design firm and its Creative Aid project, students got to work on real client projects for the Ronald McDonald House and local small business, building up their portfolio with professional design experience.
Graduation 2022
Aug. 29, 2022
JPCatholic held its 14th annual commencement on August 27th. Learn more about the events of Graduation Week, the Senior Film Screening projects, and the Institutional Award Winners.
San Diego Union-Tribune Article Spotlights JPCatholic
Aug. 1, 2022
Featured in the L.A. Times and on the front page of the Union-Tribune, the article talks about our recent feature film “O, Brawling Love!”, upcoming campus expansions, the mission of the school, and more.
Alumna's Organization “State of Art” Offers Community, Support to San Diego Artists
July 18, 2022
Kaitlyn Krikorian (‘20) founded the organization last year to provide networking for creative professionals, facilitate paid work opportunities, and raise funds for mental health initiatives.
Alumnus Dominic Smith, O.S.A., Ordained a Priest
July 6, 2022
Fr. Dominic Smith, O.S.A. was ordained a priest in the Order of Saint Augustine last month. He is the eleventh JPCatholic alumnus to be ordained.
JPCatholic Announces BFA Degree Starting Fall 2023
June 30, 2022
The BFA in Visual Arts degree will be the new home for our emphases in Animation, Game Development, Graphic Design, and Illustration.
JPCatholic Feature Film “O, Brawling Love!” Wraps Production
June 29, 2022
The inaugural project in JPCatholic’s Feature Film Program finished filming in Escondido on Tuesday.
JPCatholic Launches Study Abroad Program with NET Ministries Ireland
June 3, 2022
The program will provide students the opportunity to spend several months in Ireland doing evangelization work.
Feature Film Project “O, Brawling Love!” Begins Production
June 2, 2022
The first project in JPCatholic’s Feature Film Program began filming today in Escondido.
JPCatholic Day & Scholarship Gala 2022
May 25, 2022
Last weekend, we welcomed alumni, parents, and benefactors to campus for our inaugural JPCatholic Day, celebrating faculty and student accomplishments.
Dr. Shalina Stilley Publishes New Theology Book
May 23, 2022
Paradoxes of Faith and Reason grapples with aspects of the Catholic faith that seem to contradict reason at first glance.
Alumnus Tristan Farida Ordained a Priest
May 16, 2022
Tristan Farida (‘19) was ordained a priest of the Chaldean Catholic Church. He is the eighth Chaldean seminarian to graduate from JPCatholic and become a priest.
Rest in Peace Bishop Brom
May 10, 2022
Bishop-Emeritus Robert Brom was Bishop of San Diego when JPCatholic was founded.
New Virtual Production Electives Prepare Students for Growing Industry
May 9, 2022
Prof. Max Hulburt's new sequence of electives has already launched alumni into virtual production careers.
Alumna Maggie Mahrt to Direct Feature Film “O Brawling Love!”
May 6, 2022
Maggie Mahrt (‘10) will return to JPCatholic to direct the inaugural project in JPCatholic’s Feature Film Program.
Fr. Andy Younan Publishes New Book “Advice from Aristotle”
May 4, 2022
Advice from Aristotle: Life Lessons from the Nicomachean Ethics is now available on Amazon.
JPCatholic Freshman Cast in a Lead Role in Upcoming Feature “Miracle at Manchester”
Mar. 30, 2022
Paul Bonner, along with several other JPCatholic students, have been cast in the feature film from JCFilms Studios. Production will begin in April in San Diego.
Prof. Chris Riley Releases New Book “The Defining Moment”
Mar. 15, 2022
Written by screenwriters Chris and Kathy Riley, the book offers essential insights into the forces that create character, using dozens of examples from film, television, and literature.
Feature Film Project Greenlit, Pre-Production to Begin Immediately
Feb. 16, 2022
O, Brawling Love!, written by senior screenwriting student Bella Lake, has been selected to be produced as the inaugural project in JPCatholic’s Feature Film Program.
Senior Film Projects 2022
Feb. 4, 2022
Our senior film class has been busy in producing their capstone projects! From comedies to war dramas to post-apocalyptic, see the full list of short films and links to follow them on social media.
JPCatholic Launches “Build for Impact” Capital Campaign
Nov. 30, 2021
The multi-year $18M campaign will provide student scholarships, a dedicated chapel, and a creative arts academic complex.
Student Art Show Hosted at Escondido Municipal Arts Gallery
Nov. 22, 2021
JPCatholic’s Art Club “Created to Create” hosted its first art show at the Escondido Municipal Arts Gallery. A total of 22 students showcased 32 pieces.
Nine Semi-Finalists Pitch Their Stories for Production
Oct. 19, 2021
Students and alumni submitted 45 stories to be produced as part of JPCatholic’s new Feature Film Program. Nine of those projects were pitched.
JPCatholic Students & Alumni Work on Prof. Scoggins’ Feature Film “What Remains”
Oct. 18, 2021
Over 20 students and alumni worked on Prof. Nathan Scoggins’ film shoot.
Rest in Peace Dr. Luis Calingo
Oct. 4, 2021
Dr. Luis Calingo, a trustee and longtime friend of JPCatholic, passed away on October 1, 2021.
Orientation 2021: JPCatholic Welcomes Record Incoming Class
Sept. 30, 2021
Last weekend, JPCatholic held new student Orientation, welcoming 119 new freshmen and transfer students to begin classes this fall.
Alumni Produced Sci-fi Podcast “Project Foxtrot” Premieres Pilot Ep.
Sept. 16, 2021
Project Foxtrot is a narrative sci-fi mystery podcast centered on a 13-year old Blake Johnson resurfaces five years after his disappearance.
JPCatholic Ranked #19 by U.S. News for Best Regional Colleges West
Sept. 13, 2021
In addition, the University ranked #8 in Top Performers on Social Mobility.
Graduation and Senior Screening 2021
Aug. 30, 2021
On Saturday, August 28th, John Paul the Great Catholic University held its 13th annual commencement at the Ritz Theater in Escondido.
WSCUC Reaffirms JPCatholic’s Accreditation for Eight Years
July 13, 2021
JPCatholic has received formal notification from the WASC Senior College and University Commission that our accreditation is reaffirmed for eight years.
California Reopening and COVID-19 Updates
July 10, 2021
Learn more about California reopening and JPCatholic's COVID-19 policies.
Dr. Samuel Keyes Ordained to the Priesthood
June 29, 2021
Dr. Samuel Keyes, Professor of Theology at JPCatholic, was ordained to the Roman Catholic priesthood today at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Walsingham in Houston, TX.
Two Alumni Ordained to the Priesthood this Summer
June 23, 2021
Fr. Roni Schamoun was ordained in the Chaldean Catholic Rite, and Fr. George Perez as Eudist priest in the Roman Catholic Rite.
Student Showcase: 3d Environments with “Abandoned” Theme
June 16, 2021
Over the past several months, students in Prof. Sartain’s courses have been producing immersive 3d environments based on the prompt “abandoned”.
2021-2022 Theatre Season Announced
June 14, 2021
Our students recently performed Shakespeare's “As You Like It” to close out the Spring Quarter, and we're excited to announce the coming season.