Pope Leo XIV: Seeing Light and Hope in Our Youth

July 16, 2025

When Pope Leo XIV was elected in May, the world rejoiced, and America’s voice was part of the elegant chorus that welcomed His Holiness, not only as a new beacon of hope, but as the first American-born pontiff.
 
Born Robert Francis Prevost in 1955 to a father of French and Italian descent and a mother of Spanish descent, his life represents a most unique interpretation of the American Dream, one in which the ordinary can become extraordinary when touched by the hands of God.
 
Young Robert Prevost’s college experience was rooted in spirituality and the sacred, marking the beginning of his transformational journey. Soon after graduating in 1977 with a degree in mathematics and studies in philosophy, he entered the Order of Saint Augustine. Ordained in 1982, he served others and God over decades, now marked by his ascent to the papacy.
 
His elevation has come at a time when many people, especially adolescents and young adults, as well as crucial institutions such as higher education, are under great pressure.
 
Last month, in his first televised message for an American audience, Pope Leo shared these hopeful words about our youth: “The world looks to you to announce a message of true hope and to promote peace."
 
In that message and through Pope Leo’s lived experience, we hear a reinforcement of our mission at St. Joseph’s University, New York — to instill in our students the integrity, intellectual rigor, spiritual depth, social responsibility and service that is necessary to change our world for the better.
 
We welcome Pope Leo XIV and his light-filled, purposeful message with open hearts and minds.

Donald R. Boomgaarden, Ph.D.
President of St. Joseph’s University, New York