Executive Secretary and Director of Planning, Jesuit Conference U.S.A.
2014
Bio:
Fr. Gerard Stockhausen, S.J. entered eternal life on January 12, 2016
Citation:
As former president of University of Detroit Mercy and current chief operating officer and planning director with the Jesuit Conference U.S.A., Rev. Gerard L. Stockhausen, S.J., has distinguished himself as a strong advocate of Catholic higher education, a visionary leader, a skilled administrator and a compassionate supporter of social justice.
With his calm presence and commitment to the ideals of Jesuit and Mercy higher education, Fr. Stockhausen developed mutual admiration and respect among students, alumni, faculty and staff during his 10-year tenure at UDM, four years as Provost and vice president for Academic Affairs and six years as president. During this time, he successfully led the University to numerous accomplishments, including increased student enrollment, expansion of academic programs, financial stability, athletic recognition and community service. In creating the Office of Mission & Identity and selecting a permanent director for the Catholic Studies Program, he further enhanced the University’s Catholic identity.
While at UDM, Fr. Stockhausen was actively involved in improving the neighborhoods around the University, as well as contributing to the greater Detroit community by serving as a director on community and civic boards, including the Detroit Economic Club and New Detroit.
Since 2010, Fr. Stockhausen has served in an executive capacity for the Jesuit Conference U.S.A., utilizing his knowledge and experience, as well as his management and leadership skills, in helping the 10 Jesuit provinces throughout the country achieve strategic plans for more effective apostolic service, both nationally and internationally. Through these efforts, the Jesuit commitment to faith and social justice will continue to impact the lives of others for the “Greater Glory of God.”
In recognition of his exceptional leadership to the University of Detroit Mercy, his many contributions to Catholic higher education and his lifelong dedication to Ignatian spirituality, University of Detroit Mercy is honored to present Rev. Gerard L. Stockhausen, S.J., with the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa.
Commencement, University of Detroit Mercy, May 10, 2014