Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C., DPhil

After 19 years serving as president of the University of Notre Dame, Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C looks back on a two-decade presidential tenure from 2005–2024 as “both a great privilege and a heavy responsibility.” He is proud that in this demanding era of higher education—when a president is expected to meet competing, and often incompatible, demands— he guided Notre Dame to notable advancements in research and academic achievement, “without compromising on our commitment to excellent undergraduate education and to a Catholic mission that informs all we do.” A philosopher trained in theology and a faculty member of Notre Dame’s Department of Philosophy since 1990, Father Jenkins earned undergraduate and advanced degrees from Notre Dame, a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Oxford, and a Master of Divinity and licentiate in sacred theology from the Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley. He authored the book, Knowledge and Faith in Thomas Aquinas, and taught a range of courses in philosophy. At his 2005 inauguration as Notre Dame’s 17th president, Fr. Jenkins vowed to make the university “a healing, unifying, enlightening force for a world deeply in need,” adding, “Let no one ever say we dreamed too small.” He has transitioned to President Emeritus of Notre Dame and is currently enjoying a sabbatical year. In the fall of 2025, he will return to teaching and scholarship at Notre Dame and to continuing ministry as a priest. He is honored to accept the University of Portland’s highest honor, the Christus Magister Medal. He urges 2025 graduates from Portland and Notre Dame —sister Holy Cross universities —to “be realistic about the world you enter but be confident in yourselves.” “Make real friends and build real communities,” Father Jenkins says. “Contribute to what Pope Francis has called a ‘culture of encounter’—one in which you not only notice but look at people; you not only hear but listen; you not only pass by but stop and try to understand them.” “If you have the gift of faith, cultivate it through prayer, reflection, and participation in faith communities. Your faith will give you light and strength throughout your life.” “Look for joy,” he concludes, “and not just ease, comfort, and acclaim.”