A familiar Jesuit leader is returning to his roots to take on a new leadership role this fall.
Rev. James Flaherty, S.J., will join University Advancement as the university chaplain, where he will serve and engage alumni across the world. Father Flaherty graduated from Marquette University in 1978 where his studies in the humanities inspired him to explore “the deeper questions in life.”
As university chaplain, Father Flaherty will help discern the spiritual connection between Marquette and its global alumni community through retreats, reflections, pastoral care and opportunities for Ignatian formation. He succeeds Rev. Fred Zagone, S.J., who passed away in March after serving nearly three decades at Marquette.
“I’m really looking forward to being back at Marquette, promoting and serving its mission, while building upon the meaningful spiritual connections Father Fred fostered with our alumni community,” Father Flaherty said. “I see a lot of opportunities to help our alumni grow in Ignatian formation and to really meet and accompany each individual. Each person is unique and uniquely gifted by God.”
Father Flaherty has spent a significant portion of his priestly ministry serving the Marquette community.
Beginning in 2003, he spent more than a decade teaching philosophy, serving in Campus Ministry and later as rector of the university’s Jesuit community. In 2015, he was appointed pastor of the Church of the Gesu. An accomplished retreat director in the Midwest, he has also served on the Boards of Trustees of Marquette University and Santa Clara University.
Outside of ministry, Father Flaherty enjoys staying active. He regularly rides his road bike for exercise and also enjoys golfing, fishing and playing his acoustic guitar.
“We are excited to welcome Father Flaherty to our University Advancement team,” Vice President for University Advancement Tim McMahon said. “His love for Marquette and his commitment to Jesuit education make him uniquely suited for this role. Father Flaherty will help strengthen the spiritual connection between our university and alumni around the world.”
A Jesuit calling that started in high school, developed in college
While attending Marquette University High School, Father Flaherty first became interested in becoming a Jesuit priest. He entered the Society of Jesus in 1979 and was ordained a priest in 1992 after completing theological studies at the Jesuit School of Theology.
“I was struck by their commitment to faith, justice and education,” he said. “The Jesuits always fascinated me because there are so many different directions you can take. There is a great variety in their ministerial offerings. My experience encountering the Society of Jesus was life-changing. I really developed my faith at Marquette University, and I owe the university a debt of gratitude for helping me to discern that important decision to enter the Jesuits. I love my vocation, and I’m really looking forward to giving back at Marquette.”
