News Article

Father Rick Ganz, S.J., director of University Ministry at Gonzaga University, has been named Gonzaga’s interim vice president for University mission, filling a post vacated by Father Pat Lee, S.J., who has become provincial for the Oregon Province of the Society of Jesus in Portland.

Gonzaga President Father Robert J. Spitzer, S.J., who has announced that he will step down as president after this academic year, said it has become increasingly clear to him that the position of vice president for University mission ought to be appointed by the new president of the University, following a search process initiated by Gonzaga’s next president. A search process has begun for a new Jesuit president of the University.

Fr. Spitzer said Fr. Ganz graciously agreed to assume the role of interim vice president of mission effective Jan. 1, 2009 through May 15, 2010, in anticipation of the new president convening a search process on or before January 2010.

“Father Ganz is very well qualified to assume the role of interim vice president for mission,” Fr. Spitzer said. “Throughout the last four years, he has shown himself to be a very capable leader of University Ministry, building our programs for liturgies, retreats, outreach, etc., in both the undergraduate and graduate areas. He is very familiar with Gonzaga and our many constituencies (faculty, staff, students, Trustees, Regents and administration) and is a very creative and energetic planner and programmer as well as a very sincere, open and engaging colleague.”

Fr. Ganz will take some time off from now to December to reflect upon his new responsibilities, plan for them and to rejuvenate his creative energies, Rev. Spitzer said, adding that University Ministry is “functioning superbly, and so is well positioned for Father Ganz’ time away.” A University Ministry leadership team will report to Fr. Spitzer during Fr. Ganz’ absence.