Fr. Pilarz Begins Second Tenure

University President Scott R. Pilarz, S.J. writes a note to the University community upon his return to Scranton.
University President Scott R. Pilarz, S.J., meets members of the University community on July 2, 2018. His tenure began on July 1.
University President Scott R. Pilarz, S.J., meets members of the University community on July 2, 2018. His tenure began on July 1.

University President Scott R. Pilarz, S.J., began his second tenure at Scranton on July 1, 2018. Upon his return, he wrote this note to the University community. 

Dear Members of the University Community,

There are times when God’s love is palpable in our lives. For me, today is one such time. As I begin my second tenure as President of The University of Scranton, I return to graced ground and am filled with gratitude and humility.

I want once again to thank Father Herbert Keller, S.J., for his exemplary work this past year as Interim President. He won a place in the hearts of students, faculty and staff, and I’m delighted that he will be continuing his service as Special Assistant to the President.

At times throughout the year and more intensely these past few weeks, I started to get reacquainted with the campus community, learning how things have changed and beginning to get a sense of both concerns and aspirations for the future. Two recent highlights of note were the largest alumni reunion in our history and four outstanding orientation sessions for the Class of 2022. Engaging proud graduates as they celebrate treasured friendships and greeting students and parents eager to begin their own Scranton journey were perfect reminders of why this place is so special.

Also in June, Cathy Lovecchio, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Chair of Nursing, and Thomas MacKinnon, Vice President for University Advancement, agreed to co-chair an inauguration committee that will soon be assembled.  I have asked Cathy and Tom to ensure that the festivities are focused appropriately on the University and the people who are at its heart. For this reason, you will all be invited to take part in “A Celebration of Community” on September 21. Fittingly, the theme of our inauguration Celebration is the quote from St. Robert Southwell, S.J., engraved on the DeNaples Center – “Not where I breathe but where I love, I live.”

Nothing is more distinctly Scranton than our community. Students, faculty, staff, parents and alumni are forever bound to The University of Scranton and to the deep love and devotion that this work of God inspires. Considering the invitation from the Board of Trustees to return as President, I reflected on this love and on how blessed we are to have the opportunity to work together to advance a mission that is needed now more than ever.

I have much more listening to do in the coming months so feel free to share your ideas and dreams with me. More than anything else, please keep the University and me in your prayers.

God bless you, God bless Catholic and Jesuit education and God bless The University of Scranton.

Scott R. Pilarz, S.J.

President

Back to Top