Good morning. As you might imagine, the enormity of this moment is awe-inspiring causing me to pause as I look out at all of you this morning—the proud and dedicated members of the Viterbo community gathered here today for this special announcement. I appreciate your patience and understanding as I take a few seconds to capture a mental image of this moment—a humbling image that will continue to sustain and “fill my cup” in the days, weeks, months, and years ahead.

When I was a young boy growing up in a small, rural, blue-collar city in southwestern N.Y., I often thought about what my future would hold. I spent a lot of time contemplating and praying that I would one day live up to the hopes, dreams, and expectations of my parents who worked so hard and sacrificed so much to provide for me and my three brothers. Like most parents, they wanted their children to grow up to have a “better life” and achieve more success than they had.

Just three miles down the road from my home was a private, four-year, Catholic-Franciscan university. The school was vitally important to our community as it provided jobs, economic impact, educational programs and events, Division 1 athletics, and a moral compass for the community. My friends and I would often see students from the university around the city at restaurants and shops—man, did we look up to them and aspired to have the good fortune to one day attend college ourselves. During elementary school I had the opportunity to spend a few hours each week in the university’s Big Brother, Big Sister program. I was assigned a male college student as my big brother and each week the two of us hung out on campus talking, eating, playing sports, and studying. He was a friend, a role model, and a mentor. I loved everything about the campus environment and the people that I met. Spending time on the campus lit a fire in me and I knew that attending college and earning a degree was my ticket to a better future.

There was one problem—no one from my family had ever gone to college. I had no knowledge of the process and knew no one who could guide me. I now know that I was a classic “first generation” college student, just like my wife, Michele, who is here with us today. Both Michele and I eventually figured out a pathway to higher education—she through academic and athletic scholarships and me through an Army ROTC scholarship. We overcame the odds and persevered. Our college educations opened many doors and provided incredible experiences—higher education changed our lives and continues to change the lives of thousands of students, including many of our Viterbo students, through opportunities that would not normally be available. I am living proof of the power of Catholic Higher Education to change the trajectory of one’s life. As that young boy in Olean, N.Y. so many years ago, I could hardly imagine attending college, let alone, leading one. Access to higher education was the difference-maker in my life, one for which I will always be eternally grateful.

Yes, I am extremely honored to stand before you today as the 10th president of Viterbo University. The trust, faith, and responsibility that this community has entrusted to me is a privilege that I do not take lightly. The opportunity to lead Viterbo University, which was founded by the amazing Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration 132 years ago, is best characterized as a “calling,” requiring a commitment extending well beyond myself.  This “calling” includes the common good of our community, unconditional service and love to our community members, a laser sharp focus on student success, and the sustained growth and success of this university for generations to come.  You have my assurance that l will love Viterbo and care for our people (students, employees, and alums) with all my heart, soul, and mind.

I also realize that Viterbo’s success will require the talents, gifts, ideas, input, and hard work of all. We are better together than individually—I will seek collaboration and transparency as we move forward to seize the opportunities and overcome the challenges that will confront us as we emerge from the COVID pandemic and face an uncertain higher education environment. I am confident that we will rise to the occasion and thrive. Like the FSPA and university leaders before us, we will embrace our Catholic Franciscan identity, core values, and mission to guide us into the next phase of our proud and storied history. Our mission to prepare students for lives of faithful service and ethical leadership is just as relevant now as it has ever been. Our graduates will continue to make positive impacts in our local communities, the nation, and a world that so desperately needs their skills, passion, and gifts.

Finally, a few sentiments of gratitude to those who have supported and taught me so much during my higher education career. First, the Viterbo Board of Trustees chair, Mr. John McHugh— John, thank you for your mentorship, transparency, and savvy advice. I have enjoyed working with you during the past seven months and I look forward to many more years of good work. Next, the two university presidents who hired me as a vice president and then provided mentorship and leadership—Sr. Margaret Carney at St. Bonaventure who took a huge chance on this retiring Army officer and introduced me to the world of higher education administration, and Dr. Glena Temple who welcomed me to the Viterbo family, provided incredible opportunities, and taught me so much. This day would not be possible without the friendship and trust of both. Last, and certainly not least, is my wife of nearly 33 years, Michele, and our two incredible sons, Rick, and Kyle. Michele has always been the “rock” of our home and has always been my greatest supporter and cheerleader. She is the love of my life and the reason that I have achieved professional success. She is an amazing woman and I’m so pleased that she will stand with me and by me as we continue to serve Viterbo University. To Rick and Kyle who live out of state and are pursuing their dreams, you give my life meaning and provide so much joy to your mom and me. We are proud of you both—and so thankful to have you as our sons.

In closing, I look forward to sharing my leadership vision and priorities for Viterbo in the very near future. In the meantime, thank you for this amazing opportunity and for your well wishes and support. Serving as the 10th president of Viterbo is the culmination of 36 years of progressive leadership and professional experiences. I am blessed to serve with each of you and proud to lead our university into the future. God Bless and “Pace e Bene!” “Peace and all good” fellow VHawks.