Where Theology Meets Leadership: Q&A With Ray Harter

What do you currently do for work?

I currently serve as the Regional Vice President for Mission Integration at SSM Health, supporting 10 hospitals and 2 Medical Groups across St. Louis and Southern IL.

Why did you decide to return to school for a master’s degree?

I wanted to continue my journey of learning and growth, particularly deepening my knowledge of Theology. Having studied Theology in undergrad and Nonprofit Management for my first MA earlier in my 20’s, I knew it was the right time in both my career and home life to take a deeper dive into a Masters of Theology and Leadership.

Why did you choose the Master’s in Theology & Leadership program? Why Gonzaga?

I often say that I have an outward bias towards the Jesuits! Having attended both DeSmet Jesuit High School and Saint Louis University, the Jesuit philosophy and charism is deeply rooted within me. That said, my search for graduate programs in Theology was locked-in on only Jesuit Universities, and discovering that Gonzaga University offered a program with the dual focus of Theology & Leadership, I knew it would be the perfect fit.

How did the flexibility of the program allow you to balance work, life, and school?

Having responsibilities of my full-time job and family (wife & twin teenage daughters), flexibility was key. Although challenging in all the good ways, the MATL program offered both the structure and flexibility needed. It not only offered me the flexibility to prioritize dedicated study time during my week, but offered a supportive cohort community that was instrumental in keeping that balance in focus.

In the MATL program we say, "all faiths welcome," how was your experience?

One of the most valuable parts of the program was the diversity of religious tradition within our cohort!

I don’t think I was expecting that particular gift of perspective when I first applied, but the interfaith dialogue among our cohort only deepened my understanding of and appreciation for Theology. For me, the respect and dignity we shared with each other only affirms the “All Faiths Welcome” invitation.

What are some skills you developed and how have you used them in your life and/or career?

Another gift of perspective that I wasn’t expecting before starting the program, was the value and insight as an adult/professional student. Making the commitment to start a new graduate program in my early 40’s, I questioned myself a few times if I really wanted to do this again!

However, I surprisingly found myself in a cohort of professional peers, and the diversity and depth of life experiences, faith, and professional careers added an immense value to my experience.

So, as simple as it may sound, one of the skills I developed was an appreciation and affirmation for the continuation for learning. This recommitment to academic reading, writing, and discussions reignited a love for learning, and allowed me to expand that renewed focus within both my career and family life.

What has been your return on investment?

The investment of time and resources you put into the MATL program will yield dividends beyond your expectations. For myself, this can be quickly measured by new friendships, renewed insights, new knowledge and resources I use within my role as a Mission Leader, and being apart of the extended Gonzaga family.

What was your experience with the faculty?

MATL faculty were not only amazing professors, but incredible humans. Their unwavering commitment to the Jesuit philosophy, their advocacy for the poor and marginalized, their deep understanding of historical and social complexities, and their genuine, authentic kindness were truly a gift.

What was your immersion experience like?

My two immersion experiences were transformative moments in the MATL journey. They created space for authentic connection; building community and relationships with classmates and faculty that became the foundation of my success and engagement.

These immersions were also a sacred time. A time for prayer, reflection and meaningful dialogue focused on living out what we learned in service to others. Whether hearing from executive leaders in Catholic healthcare, Catholic Charities, or Catholic education, the message was clear, our Catholic identity calls us to serve with humility, compassion, and purpose.

What would you say to anyone considering Gonzaga’s Master’s in Theology and Leadership?

Do it! The MATL program will stretch you in ways you never imagined, surround you with a supportive cohort that feels like family, and immerse you in a world-class Jesuit education where theology truly comes alive. It’s not just a degree, but rather it’s a transformative journey that will shape both your mind and heart.