Originally founded as a college by the Jesuits, it has been run by the Basilian Fathers for more than 150 years. Rosica is a member of the order.
“We’re encouraged that he’s willing to take it on and we look forward to his bringing some of his considerable energy and experience to the job,” said Lois Smedick, chair of the board of governors of Assumption University.
Until Rosica’s term begins in December, Fr. Joseph Quinn, professor emeritus of English at the University of Windsor, will serve as interim president. In addition to Rosica’s appointment, Fr. Leo Walsh, professor emeritus of moral theology at the University of St. Michael’s College, will take on the post of vice president, academic.
Smedick said past president Fr. Paul Rennick undertook a number of initiatives, such as working on re-instituting courses in theology at the undergraduate level through the University of Windsor.
“We’re hoping that some of his initiatives will be carried on in the new presidency and that there will be some new things happening,” she said.
Rosica said he hopes to build very strong bridges between Assumption University and Catholic institutions of higher education in the London diocese, including St. Peter’s Seminary, St. Peter’s Institute, King’s College and Brescia College as well as with the Catholic school boards in the Windsor-Essex area.
“Assumption University will be known for its dynamic Catholic chaplaincy to the University of Windsor,” he said. “We will draw from the creative energy of the Salt + Light Catholic Media Foundation as we serve the important mission of Assumption University.”
Along with the energy and quality productions Salt + Light has created since its inception in 2003, it is also an institution that has linked together many elements of the Church in Canada, he said.
“I think there is a great need for an institution of higher learning in Canada to become that bridge. And I believe Assumption is in a good place to do that.”
The two-headed master that is Fr. Thomas Rosica
By Vanessa Santilli-Raimondo, The Catholic RegisterTORONTO - Fr. Thomas Rosica, CEO of Salt + Light Television, has been appointed president of Assumption University in Windsor, Ont. He begins his term effective Dec. 1.
But Rosica will not be leaving Salt + Light Television and will now oversee the future direction of both Assumption University and the TV network he founded.
“I will be assuming my new responsibilities at Assumption University in Windsor in December in addition to the work at Salt + Light Television,” he told The Catholic Register. “In fact, Salt + Light will be a key instrument in bringing some new life to Assumption University,” something he sees as an exciting challenge.
Assumption University is an independent Catholic university federated with the University of Windsor.
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