Said about the University’s 29th President

Quotes about Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., the 29th president of The University of Scranton.

“Father Marina brings a vast array of experience that will affirm the Catholic and Jesuit values upon which The University of Scranton has already been built. We are blessed that he has chosen to share his unique gifts and experiences with the students, faculty and staff of The University of Scranton. With a proven track record of being a knowledgeable and respected voice in higher education, Father Marina’s presence will serve The University of Scranton well as it continues to distinguish itself as an academically rigorous, socially responsible learning community where students become men and women for others.” The Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L., Bishop of the Diocese of Scranton.

“Father Marina belongs at Scranton. He understands well what makes Scranton special, and he believes deeply that Catholic and Jesuit education can have a profound influence on a person’s life. He has experienced it himself. He is committed to justice and realizes the important role colleges – especially Jesuit colleges – play in leading this effort for their immediate communities and for the world.” Rev. Scott R. Pilarz, S.J., ’H15, President, The University of Scranton.

“Having had many conversations with Father Marina over the last several months, I will share just one exchange that speaks volumes about who he is, and about how much he already loves the University he will soon lead. At the end of a preliminary interview with a small group of my fellow trustees, I invited Father Marina to offer closing remarks. After reiterating his enthusiasm for the presidency of Scranton, and humbly outlining his own experience and credentials, he had this to say: ‘I would like to speak to you now not as a candidate, but as a Jesuit. For the future of The University of Scranton, and of Jesuit higher education in America, what’s most important to me is not whether you choose me, but that you choose the most qualified candidate. I’ll pray for your discernment.’” Kathleen Sprows Cummings, Ph.D. ‘93, G’93, University of Scranton Trustee, Chair, Search Committee.

“Father Marina will bring his unique experience – as teacher, pastor, scholar and school administrator with more than 20 years of experience in higher education – to Scranton. We are pleased to have him lead our Scranton community.” James M. Slattery ’86, Chair, Board of Trustees, The University of Scranton.

“In both words and actions, throughout his career Father Marina has demonstrated a deep devotion to the mission of Jesuit higher education. He is particularly committed to the mission of educating the whole person and developing ethical leaders and critical thinkers. I’m pleased The University of Scranton has selected Joe as its next president.” Sharon Kinsman Salmon, former Chair Le Moyne College Board of Trustees.

“Joe has been a vital part of Le Moyne's success over the past five years. Among his accomplishment as provost are the continued growth of graduate programs, including the launch of our first doctoral program in Educational Leadership, his work on our strategic plan Sempre Avanti, and the establishment of the Quantitative Reasoning Center and the Writing Center. On a personal level, he has been a confidant, friend and wonderful colleague.” Linda M. LeMura, Ph.D., President, Le Moyne College.

“In addition to his accomplishments as provost, Father Marina has been a great sacramental presence to the entire Le Moyne College community. We are proud of and celebrate Joe’s selection, which once again confirms the College’s historic role in cultivating and exporting great talent that other institutions want and need. It is an honor to know that, in terms of mission and the entrepreneurial spirit, Le Moyne College develops leaders for the greater good of the Jesuit education network.” Robert Reklaitis, Chair, Le Moyne College Board of Trustees.

“I will be delighted to mission Fr. Marina to Scranton. He will bring a wealth of experience as an academic administrator and a pastor. He has a tremendous ability to articulate the Jesuit education vision, and he has the requisite management skills to make that vision a reality.” Rev. Joseph M. O’Keefe, S.J., Provincial of the East Coast Province of the Society of Jesus.

Update, March 2021: In February 2021, Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., was named the University’s 28th president. After the passing of Scott R. Pilarz, S.J., in March, Jeffrey Gingerich, Ph.D. became acting president and, therefore, the University’s 28th president. 

Father Marina will now become the 29th president of the University when he takes office in summer 2021. Where possible, we have updated references to reflect this change.