Welcome to the National Catholic Center for Student Aspirations' website. Our Center is operated by Assumption College in Worcester, Massachusetts and exists to advance the aspirations of students in Catholic elementary and secondary schools across the United States. For Catholics, aspirations are the call each of us hears within to find a meaningful way to serve God and one another.

Founded in 2004, the NCCSA utilizes the 8 Conditions that Make a Difference®. These Conditions help nurture Self-Worth, Active Engagement, and a sense of Purpose, which in turn help students develop aspirations. They are based on the research of Dr. Russell Quaglia who has surveyed a half a million students in the 2007-2008 academic year.

The NCCSA's research probes the presence of the 8 Condition®   within a school community as well as the strength of the students' religious formation. Using this information, we help to build resilient communities of learning and faith that listen to student voice and nurture student aspirations.

I invite you to explore our site and discover what your school community has to gain from the unique combination of resources you will find only with the NCCSA. Thank you for visiting and God bless.

Kristin Melley
Director of the NCCSA