October 2015

SANTA CLARA, Calif.,  Oct. 2, 2015— Rev. Thomas Massaro, S.J., who has led the Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University (JST) through an intensive integration and expansion over the past four years, has decided to conclude his term as dean in summer 2016 and return to teaching moral theology at JST.

 

Under Massaro’s leadership, JST has greatly expanded the level of support it receives in foundation grants, and has made significant progress in curricular development and fuller integration into Santa Clara University. Along with JST faculty, staff and directors, Massaro was instrumental in making JST stronger, more diverse and better positioned as a leading institution in Catholic theological studies and ministry. 

 

Massaro also oversaw the strong growth of the summer Hispanic Institute, for lay leaders of Hispanic congregations, and the creation of the "Women of Wisdom and Action" program, which brings in women religious leaders from under-resourced religious congregations in Asia to pursue advanced theological degrees.  

 

“I thank Father Massaro for his leadership that reflects a rare combination of academic scholarship, pastoral care and administrative acumen,”  said Santa Clara University President Michael Engh, S.J. “A renowned theologian in Catholic social teaching, he has generously shared his expertise with colleagues, students and ministers and contributed to the overall success of JST and the University."  

 

Massaro joined the 81-year-old institution in July of 2012 from Boston College School of Theology and Ministry, where he was a prominent scholar and sought-out speaker in the areas of Catholic social teaching; religion in public life; and ethical dimensions of the economy. He received his B.A. in economics, political science and religion from Amherst College, and holds a master's degree in philosophy from Fordham University, a Licentiate in Sacred Theology and a Master of Divinity degree from the Weston Jesuit School of Theology, as well as a doctorate in Christian social ethics from Emory University.

 

"It has been a great privilege to serve as dean of this unique institution, especially seeing the many ways the school has grown stronger and more diverse in recent years,” said Massaro. “I am absolutely filled with gratitude for the generosity of the faculty, staff, students and donors of this splendid theology center. I now look forward to serving JST in another capacity: by returning to the classroom to resume the work for which I have such a great passion, teaching moral theology to future ministers of the Church. I am also eager to work on a volume on the social teachings of Pope Francis - on economic inequality and environmental justice, among other key topics."  

 

A search for a successor will commence soon.

 

About the Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University
The Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University, located in Berkeley, California, is a preeminent international center for the culturally contextualized study of theology. Its mission is to inspire and prepare men and women to become leaders in the Church, academy, and society, serving others through a faith that does justice. Rooted in Ignatian spirituality, JST educates and trains Jesuits, religious, ordained, and lay students from across the United States and from 40 other countries for lives dedicated to ministry and scholarship.

 

Media Contact
Deepa Arora | Communications Director | darora@scu.edu | 408-554-5125