Greatest Educator of Business and Life

I met Father Rashford in 2011 as he interviewed me for his EMBA program. He was kind and impressive and I knew I was in the right place. I was fortunate that my class (EMBA 2013) was the final class he taught. That blessing not only allowed me to learn from a brilliant business educator, but I'm honored to say that we became friends and he was a new mentor on life for me.

I'm sure everyone who knew him will say this, but he made you feel that you were the most important person to him as he listened and then advised. 

As a senior executive in the healthcare industry, I hear his words in my mind and use my learnings from him daily. He will be missed, but he lives on in his teaching.

- Thomas Eicke

Sunday Mass

As a student at Saint Joseph's University (BS '97), one of the most peaceful moments in my week was attending Sunday Mass. I’d sometimes go to the 11 a.m. service, especially when Fr. Rashford was presiding. His homilies were filled with love, hope and inspiration — and always left a lasting impression. At the end of each Mass, he would recite the Irish Blessing. That prayer came to mean so much to me that, when I graduated, my mom gave me a plaque engraved with it. It’s hung in my kitchen ever since, where I see it every day and am reminded of those meaningful moments. May the road rise up to meet you, Fr. Rashford. We were truly fortunate to have you as part of our lives.

- Kristin Lawrence

The CEO of SJU

I was privileged to serve as a Trustee on the Board when Nick was president. Those intense eyes could read a room in a heartbeat, yet his warm handshake and hug gave away his huge heart. A leader with a clear and determined vision for the University, he led with the certainty of a seasoned CEO and laid the path for future leaders…and all of us. He loved Ireland, poetry, art…and, most of all, St. Joe’s and his God. Nick, rest in peace. And thank you.

- Mary Lou Quinlan

Memory About Father Rashford

I was privileged to know and work with Father Rashford for several years. I managed the Beneficial Bank Foundation, Father Rashford served as a director on the Foundation’s Board. He cared very much about the community, especially for those underserved. He was very supportive and complimentary of the work done by the Beneficial Foundation. I was always grateful for his support and relieved when he would compliment the report, knowing it was free of spelling or grammatical errors. The Foundation for years had a scholarship named after Father Rashford, awarded to a SJU student in the Business School. May his soul rest in peace and perpetual light shine upon him.

- Robert Juliano

Fond Memories and Friendship with Fr. Nick.

I am saddened for the passing of Fr. Rashford. A great man, friend and leader of the Jesuits and of SJU.

So many great memories from that groundbreaking day for the Haub School, Mandeville Hall to being able to sit on the bench with "Fr. Nick" at the Palestra for a Temple Big Five game as his camera never stopped taking great photos. Since my days as CEO at Ferrero USA Group, Fr. Nick was there for discussions and instrumental in guidance and enabling balanced options to help get to a conclusion.

Fr. Nick had so many great talents. Our family Christmas tree is decorated every year with the SJU ornaments received each year along with the beautiful card from his photography choice of the year. Fr. Nick will always be honored and missed. May he rest in peace with the Lord. Thank you Fr. Nick for all you were, all you accomplished and all you served over the years.

- Michael Gilmore

Fr. Rashford tribute

One of the most influential individuals in St Joe's history!

Visionary, bold decision maker, impactful, his love of teaching and photography, and a caring faith-filled priest.

Recall his priorities--campus beautification, wiring for the internet, a Chapel, a School of Business, growing undergraduate enrollment, expanding graduate offerings, expanded opportunities outside the classroom, a player in the Philly community, engaged new alumni, expanded the Board, record setting campaigns, the Bridge, McShain Hall, the Gillin Boathouse, member of the early years of the NCAA Presidents' Commission, etc....we learned from you, thank you and rest in Peace!

- Don DiJulia

Rest in Peace Father Rashford

Orientation - August 1994.

Father Rashford greeted the incoming freshmen and their parents while sitting on a folding chair in the middle of the field house court with a stuffed frog on his head. I remember he gained the respect of my father (a dad of 6) by telling us all how he had put two young men through college.

- Anne McManus Von Thaden

A Lasting Impact on How We Teach and Learn

A little known fact about Fr. Rashford is that it was his direct intervention that helped launch the Office of Teaching and Learning.

Many years after retiring as President, he was still supporting the institution behind the scenes.

When I was first tapped to set up the OTL, Nick encouraged me to reach out to his good friend Mike Morris for the initial funds. Provost Jeanne Brady, Marty Farrell, and I met with Mr. Morris on multiple occasions to discuss our vision for improving the student experience by providing hands-on training and mentoring to the faculty. But it was Nick's enthusiasm for the creation of the office that most resonated with Mr. Morris and encouraged him to make the early gifts that gave that 1-person office its start. Nick mentored me in the gentlest possible way, always curious to hear my ideas, attending the annual Teaching and Learning Fora to show his support, and ensuring the OTL had the institutional backing it needed to flourish.

This is the end of an era. Fr. Rashford will be missed.

- Usha Rao

Fr. Nick

I met Father Rashford over 30 years ago. He instantly became intertwined in my life and family. He married my wife and I, baptized our three children and blessed our home.

He remained a confident, adviser and friend until the end. His humor and insight and kindness will have me smiling for the rest of my days.

I was honored to have known him.

-Robert Goggin

Thanks From the Class of 1990

Father Rashford started the same year I entered SJU and I still remember his energy from freshman orientation in the summer of 1986. His vision, positive outlook and wonderful humor and storytelling abilities will be something I remember in fondness. My husband was able to enjoy the Haub School of Business and the executive MBA program along with Fr. Rashford as a professor. He made an impression on us both and we are thankful for his time spent growing Hawk Hill.

- Kate Clark

Three Things Father Nick Taught Me

Father Nick made time for me. I felt like I was the only one he was coaching even though he was mentoring dozens of student at a time. 

He taught me what it was to be a mentor, although I didn’t know it then. Almost every conversation I had with him ended with him saying “So, what did you learn?” or “I learned something talking with you.” 

Three things I learned from Nick:

1) If you don’t ask or try, the answer is always no. 

2) A good radiologist looks in the shadows. You should, too. (in other words, look beyond the obvious to get a complete view).

3) Be bold, be bigger. 

Bonus - You’re Irish. It’ll be ok. 

Thanks for helping me achieve more than I knew I could when we met in 1986.

- Patrick Durbin

Freshman Orientation-8/1986. Class of 90

I had the honor of starting my freshmen year with Father Rashford in August of 1986. We had just completed freshmen orientation activities prior to an evening dance in the commuter cafe. Father Rashford, newly appointed President, walked into the cafe with a stuffed frog on his head! I’ll never forget it. He made it a point to warmly welcome all of us and connected our togetherness. He, as newly appointed President and we as the class of 90. All of us starting a new chapter in our lives. While using humor, he made no joke about our purpose in life and the positive impact we would make on our world!

Fr. Rashford was one of a kind in spirit, commitment, perseverance, dedication and inspiration to all he knew and served on Hawk Hill.

I was blessed to learn and study at SJU under Fr. Rashford’s visionary leadership and love. ❤️

- Re-Re (Rosemarie) Finn-Torchia

Nick Rashford Was a Good Friend

I first got to know Nick Rashford when we were both young Jesuits studying philosophy at St. Louis University. We became good friends there. So I was not surprised when as President at Saint Joseph's he invited me to serve on the St. Joe's board. Our work together for Saint Joseph's deepened our friendship. So I, like many others, will miss him very much. I am sure he is resting in peace in the hands of God.

- David Hollenbach, S.J.

Fr. Rashford

To say Father Rashford played a large part in my life would be an understatement.

He presided at my parent's wedding, and a family funeral. He was (and is) a close family friend.

At my family's suggestion, I visited him my freshman year. I hadn't seen him in literal decades, more than half my lifetime, but thanks to his wit and warmth, it didn't feel like that at all.

What sticks with me is that he took time to find a class portrait from my father's photography class - something I never knew he'd taken - and had a print made for me to keep.

Father Rashford was an awesome person and a wonderful human being. He really embodied everything I love about Jesuits, and - those aren't just nice-sounding words. He was the ideal in motion.

- Makenzie Gallagher

My Best Friend

Fr Nick and I were best friends forever. We started at Ting school in pre kindergarten in 1945. We remained together through grade school at St John’s and high school at Spalding Institute in Peoria, IL. In May of 1959, we were at Steak and Shake. Fr Nick was trying to decide what direction his life was going to go and doing it with a nickel. Heads to the Jesuits or tails to the Navy. It came up tails. We both enlisted in the Navy the next day. We remained friends, but our lives went in different ways. I stayed in the Navy. Nick did four years, and went to work for a communications firm. But God always had plans for Nick. He went to his true calling as a Jesuits. Fr Nick became a good priest, a good teacher and a great leader, and a great example for all who meet him. 

I know now he is resting in peace with God.

- John A (Tony) Grow

Father Nick RIP

I was always amazed how Father Nick was a priest but so much more - a businessman and a future thinking teacher, consultant and president. 

He will be missed, and leaves behind so much to past, current and future students and SJU. 

In my undergraduate and graduate years at SJU, Father Nick’s class (real business leader problem solving) was the best class in all my years. 

RIP

- Frank Fazio

A Good Irishman

Father Rashford was proud of his Irish roots. When I arrived at St. Joe’s on a basketball scholarship in 1998, he was genuinely pleased to have someone from Ireland on the team and made a point of welcoming me. He also showed great kindness to my family during their visits, often inviting them into his home. It meant a lot to know that someone was looking out for me—especially someone in his role as university president. He will be missed on Hawk Hill. 

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

- Susan Lavin

So Many Ways That Nick Rashford Positively Impacted My Life

Nick hired me as the second dean of the business school effective July 1, 1987, but just before that, he asked me to go to Ireland on some university business where we met up and traveled there and back home together. That was the beginning of a very close relationship that lasted until recently when I was not on campus much and his health was deteriorating. He was a great mentor, a great friend, and a great leader. At his behest, the business chairs created and launched our EMBA program in which Nick played a huge role as both "executive" of the program and faculty member. Much of the success of this program, now over 35 years old, is attributable to Nick's guidance, support and presence. Beyond our professional and personal relationship on Hawk Hill, Nick visited our house for dinner on a couple of occasions and even went trick-or-treating with me and our youngest son Ryan, now 40, but at the time a preschool kid with special needs. By the way, Nick dressed up as a Jesuit. Later, Nick became my personal confessor. In that role, he was kind, understanding and offered both encouragement as well as guidance. Nick's presence at SJU has been huge and his presence in my life and that of my family was equally significant. I will miss him. Rest in peace, Father. You deserve it.

- John Lord

Reminding Me That We Are All Called to Serve

While getting my EMBA at SJU I started to go through a very messy and bitter divorce, and I contemplated dropping out of the program. Visibly distraught, one of the faculty suggested I speak to Father Rashford for emotional (and spiritual) guidance.

Over the next several months, Father Nick spent countless hours listening, counseling, privately coaching and guiding me through what at the times seemed like the hardest time in my life.

With his guidance, I ultimately stayed in the program earning a MBA in the Spring of 2014, and we’ve kept in touch since then, each time our conversations ending with his typical words of encouragement and care.

I am indebted to Father Nick for his patience, kindness, counsel and wisdom in those times when I needed it most. He’s taught me to be a better student, coworker, friend and parent - and that sometimes in life, we can’t make it through the hard times without the help and charity of others. So equally, we are all called to serve and be that help for others.

Rest in Peace and Thank You, Father Nick - and may Christ the true Shepherd embrace you as one of his flock and welcome you into his paradise, Amen.

- Christopher Lopez

Learning (To Teach) from Father Rashford

In 2010, when I was a pre-tenure assistant professor, I was assigned to co-teach an Executive MBA (EMBA) management class with Father Rashford. I was, to say the least, a bit intimidated. I would be teaching a class alongside the man who developed it, in the academic program he had championed, using the book he had written, in the moot boardroom classroom he had designed, inside the building (Mandeville Hall) he had built. He was the larger-than-life former university president who was admired, respected, and loved by the students... and I was a junior professor whom students likely saw as an afterthought.

My intimidation dissipated within the very first minute of sitting with Father Rashford to discuss the course. "Here's the syllabus I've used in the past. What do you think? What changes would you like to make?" he asked. The larger-than-life former university president treated me like a peer, a colleague, a companion in the work. I offered my recommendations, and he said, "Sounds good. Let's do it."

I know the students learned quite a bit from the class, developing knowledge about organizational systems and dynamics. What I learned from Father Rashford was how to ask better questions. He had a powerful approach of asking pointed and probing questions while still being very open and curious. And, of course, closing each session with the question, "What have you learned?" This began my personal journey to realizing it is much better for students to leave a class with one or two deep insights rather than superficially "learning" 10-20 disparate bits of knowledge.

"What have you learned?" From that one semester co-teaching experience with Father Rashford, I learned pedagogical approaches that I continue to use today. And, more importantly, I learned the power of humility in the classroom. Being a companion in the work is the best way to serve others.

- Ron Dufresne

Class of 2018

Father Rashford put me on a plan of success.

He pried out of me confidence and strength.

He illuminated everyone he met.

- Harrison Reggie

Uncle Nick

To his Irish family he was affectionately known as Uncle Nick. Uncle Nick was very proud of his Irish family and will be sadly missed by his many relatives and friends in Ireland. Uncle Nick inspired and encouraged me to study at St. Joe’s. I am excited to start my journey as a freshman this Fall and honour his legacy. While visiting him on campus, he shared his love of poetry and many stories about his remarkable life. As an uncle he was a great conversationalist, had a great sense of humour and was much loved. 

 “Ar dheis Dé go raibh a h’anam dílis”☘️

- Mia Walsh

The Power of Three

Having you for a mentor for nearly a decade as SJU's EMBA director was a profound gift in my Higher Ed career. Grateful thanks for everything. I especially loved our daily Diet Cokes and conversation.

Three "Classic 'Nick' Lessons" that still give me pause to this day:

- "If you are going to swim with the sharks you had better not bleed."
- "Learn as much as you can from everyone, especially your students."
- "Synthesize your message into three distinct parts, or even better, three words."

Rest. In. Peace. Father Nick.

- Terese Waldron

God Bless You

I saw Father Rashford at every basketball game for almost 27 years. He would stop at our seat and say hello. It was such an honor to shake his hand or engage in a conversation. His dedication and love for the University was plain to see. Most recently I've had the honor and privilege of being with him and serving him at Manresa Hall. He always had a smile for me and a warm word. His trains were the highlight of Manresa at the holiday season and to see his face light up as they were around the track brightened everyone's day. I will miss him dearly. Well done my good and faithful servant.

- Catherine Houpt

Rest in Peace Father Nick

Al and I first met Father Rashford at our daughter Terri's Orientation in 1994. I can still see him sitting on a chair with a stuffed frog on his head telling so many impressive, inspiring and funny stories and earning the respect of all who attended; most especially from Al and myself. From that day on a beautiful friendship ensued. We enjoyed many Christmas dinners together at our home in West Chester with our children and grandchildren along with Ed and Marilyn Trainor and Michael and Marie Tegler, followed by almost weekly memorable dinners with him at his favorite restaurants. Five of our six children attended SJU while Father was President and were so honored to have known him. Everyone knows how much Father loved his trains and we were so honored when he allowed us to keep them on loan for a short time until he wanted them back. Then, I think it was in 2022 he wanted to display them again, so we returned them and the look on his face to see them displayed once again was unforgettable filled with so much Pride and Happiness.

God Bless you Father Nick! Thank you for your wonderful friendship and the precious memories you left with us. You will be forever missed. I know that Al will be overjoyed to see you. 

Our Love and Prayers 

- Janet Tegler and Family

25 years on Hawk Hill

One day at the top of the steps leading to Mandeville, Fr. Rashford approached me and said “Nancy, how about helping me down those steps?” And of course, I readily obliged. It then dawned on me- today is my 25th anniversary on Hawk Hill- what a perfect way to commemorate this day!

- Nancy Komada

Thank You Father Rashford

I have been lucky to call Father Rashford a friend for over a decade. My time at SJU included countless trips with friends to see Nick over at his Residence Hall or the Jesuit Residence. These informal masses were tailored for us, connecting faith to every life as a college student. They were motivating, challenging us to think more about the world, what we were experiencing in our lives, and how to carry ourselves. These visits always concluded with dinners over at Olive Garden or Iron Hill where laughs and good conversations continued. It was incredible hearing all his accomplishments from his presidency on Hawk Hill. Still, he made sure the conversations came around back to us, asking us his famous quote, “What have you learned?”. It was always about educating and finding self-growth. We always left with something to think about. 

These visits continued post-graduation, where we would catch up and he would hear about the first days as a young professional. In 2019, we sat and discussed a job offer I received that would require me to leave Philly. We spoke for a long time, talking about my dreams and aspirations for my career and the life I wanted to live. The words he gave still stick with me today. I am forever grateful for his guidance. 

Our visits turned to video chats during the pandemic, but his smile never faded. He would not let social distancing or his personal health obstacles deter him from his passion: serving others. His Jesuit values were forever present and continued to inspire countless Hawks. During my last visit a few months ago, I was able to express my gratitude to Father for all the priceless lessons he’s instilled in me. He turned, smiled, and nodded. I could see the peace he had in his eyes, knowing the impact he had made. He will be dearly missed, but I am proud to be just a small part of his legacy that will carry on. 

“May the road rise to meet you
May the wind be always at your back
May the sunshine warm upon your face,
The rains fall soft upon your fields and
may God hold you in the palm of his hand.”

- Charles Gill

Father Rashford, Father Nick, and Nick

A few years after I graduated, I was back working on campus and going for my masters. A group project with two colleagues from SJU had us contracted with Father Rashford as our sponsor. Midway through the process on our consulting project, I heard him deliver a homily that changed the way I saw him and how I communicated with him (and others). 

Like others who are commenting about Father Nick's homilies, I felt like he was speaking directly to me. He was talking about relationships and shared that he can sense a relationship from others based on how people address him. He said, ""People that know me call me Father Rashford. People that like me call me Father Nick. My friends call me Nick.""

Thank you, Nick, for your vision, your wisdom, and your spirit. You taught me so much in such a unique way. For that I am both grateful as well as committed to paying it forward in your name. Know I still quote you when speaking with other Hawks by asking ""So, what did we learn..."" and I even include your poetic ""...huh?"" at the end.

- Dan Gallagher

Al Russo memories of Fr. Nick

As an employer, friend, travel companion, confidant, sympathetic ear, Fr. Nick looms larger than life in my heart as I know he did in that of our dear Christine Kaczmar-Russo. During Christine's extended recovery from a bone marrow transplant, Fr. Nick was at the house every Sunday to perform Mass. During her final illness, he tearfully accepted what he knew would be three final kisses from her: one for the Father, one for the Son, and one for the Holy Spirit. During one of our many trips to visit his dear Haub family in Germany, I made the mistake of leaving, what I assumed was a sleeping Fr. Nick, in the front seat of the car with my keys while I went to pay for fuel at the autobahn station. I returned to a wide-awake Fr. Nick holding my keys and refusing to return then until I repeated after him a promise to keep the speed below 140 kilometers/hr. He noticed everything!

- Albert Russo

A Lesson That Stuck

I had the privilege of taking classes with Father Rashford from 2007 to 2009 during my MBA at Saint Joseph’s University. He wasn’t just a brilliant professor — he was a mentor who led with purpose, humility, and heart.

One moment I’ll never forget: at the end of every class, he would go around the room and ask each of us, “What did you learn today?” It wasn’t just about recapping a lecture — it was about reflection, growth, and accountability. That simple question taught us to be present, to think deeper, and to always walk away with something meaningful.

Father Rashford made you feel like your thoughts mattered. His teachings went far beyond textbooks — he shaped how we think, lead, and live. I carry his lessons with me every day in how I run my business and how I treat people.

Thank you, Father Rashford. Your impact lives on in all of us who had the honor to learn from you.

- Zuhtu Kahya

A Saint Joe Memory

Some days are tougher than others.
Some days it is hard to determine what we learned.
That is why I display the April 1991 photo of Father Rashford,
When we broke ground for the Chapel of St. Joseph.
Ave Atque Vale

- Gerard St. John

* The image highlights the groundbreaking for the Chapel of St. Joseph, April 21, 1991.
 (from left to right: Paul Henkels, Sue Healy, Gerry St. John and Father Rashford)

World Famous "Bull Shipper!"

I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Father Nick since his arrival on Hawk Hill in 1986. I was a Junior when he arrived. We hit it off right away especially when we realized early on that we both shared a love of all things Irish… especially Irish Music.

Our friendship was sealed my Senior year when I was serving as Master of Ceremonies for the Annual Senior Citizens Thanksgiving Dinner Dance. I introduced our new President by telling the audience that his great grandfather was a famous farmer on the west coast of Ireland and on that farm, he raised bulls. He shipped those bulls all over the world from that little farm in Ireland and subsequently, he became known as a world famous “bull shipper”! I said his great grandson, Father Rashford, continues the family tradition and is also known as a world famous “bull shipper”. As I handed Fr. Nick the mic, he whispered in my ear “And you think you’re going to graduate Farrell?” Needless to say, I was betting on Nick’s sense of humor and he thoroughly enjoyed it. He had me tell that story many times over the years.

Father Nick was certainly a transformative leader for SJU and we were fortunate that he came along when he did. He was also a dear friend, a fine priest, a talented poet and photographer and a wonderful storyteller.

I’m grateful that our friendship grew over the years and grateful for many happy memories… from traveling with him by train to Father Joyce’s Deaconate ordination… to bringing the kids to Regis to see his famous trains… to singing a reworked version of Wild Rover at his 60th birthday… to meatloaf birthday dinners at our home… To sneaking Sue’s chocolate chip cookies to him at the “Jes Res”… To sharing Christy Moore songs like “Sail on Jimmy” …And many, many more.

Thanks for the memories, Fr. Nick! Slainte!

- Marty Farrell

A Great Friend and Jesuit

I met Father Nick for the first time in 1984 together with my father and I remember how they both developed a special bond which ultimately led to the development of the Erivan K. Haub School of Business at St. Joseph's University. Over the years that followed, I developed my own special relationship with Fr. Nick spending many evenings with him in deep conversations about life, our family business and the world in general. He would also become close to my wife, Liliane, and baptized our two youngest children, Anna-Sophia and Constantin, events we cherish to this day.
Our many wonderful experiences with Father Nick led to our growing passion for the Jesuits and convinced us to send all of our four kids to Jesuit Universities, which Fr. Nick introduced us to, and the Jesuit community became a home away from home for us.
For many years I would participate in Fr. Nick’s business strategy classes he taught at the executive MBA program, and I thoroughly enjoyed being in class together with him and sharing my experience as a business leader while also answering Fr. Nick’s challenging questions. He was continually curious and one of his favorite questions at the end would always be: what did you learn today? ... and he would also ask a variation of this question every time he would visit with us.
Fr. Nick played an important role in our lives, and we will miss him greatly. He leaves a great legacy at St. Joseph’s University which will be forever intertwined with our family.

- Christian Haub

So, What Have You Learned?

Near the end of my undergraduate years at Saint Joseph’s in 2017, I found myself at a crossroads. I was seriously considering leaving school to pursue a military career, feeling burned out and disconnected from the finance degree I had been pressured into. Uncertain and a little lost, I sought guidance from Fr. Rashford.

We met one rainy Sunday afternoon in his office. I was hungover, naturally, but he didn’t mind. We spoke for about an hour—nothing too deep, just a wide-ranging conversation about where I was in life. Afterward, he invited me to dinner at the Landmark across from Hagan Arena. There, our conversation shifted. We talked not about academics or career paths, but about things far more lasting: family, faith, and friendship.

As dinner wrapped up, he looked at me and asked, “So, tell me what you have learned?”

I didn’t have an answer right away. I noticed the people at the next table listening in. So I just smiled, gave him a wink, and said, “That you’re a good guy, Father.”

That was our only interaction—but it left a deep impression on me. His kindness and attention that day gave me the strength to finish my degree and continue my academic journey. I’ll always be grateful for that conversation and the quiet way he helped me find my way.

I hope to honor his memory by living out the virtues he embodied so naturally.

Philippians 1:3 (NABRE):
“I give thanks to my God at every remembrance of you.”

- Patrick Collins

My Friend Nick

I am so deeply sad that i cannot be at the services for my dear friend Nick Rashford. He was an inspiration to us all . The way he lived and loved life and the way he faced his adversity will always be the way we should live. 

My memories of Nick are many. He was spiritual as a Jesuit, an artistic photographer, and an excellent businessman. 

Our Procacci families for many years hosted a reception for all the Hawks in Southwest Florida in the Winter. Of course with this upper income audience Nick would command center stage. 
After invocation and salutations Nick would give each year the same statement and request. " Once a Hawk, a Loyal Loyal Hawk the Hawk Will Never Die! But if some day you may happen to choose to die we have some forms here for you to sign to donate some or sll of your estate to your University."

Another memory of many memories is after 9/11 , SJU and some other lesser Universities like Cornell, Rutgers, Penn State, Cal Davis and Florida were given Federal grants to study the possibility of intentional food contamination. We called it bio-terriorism. 

When asked by one of the government agencies of the need to guard our fresh fruit and vegetable farms with 24 hour security I respectfully protested. I said , " This is not necessary. We farmers never allow strangers on or near our fields. Do not forget that farming is a vocation. I think being a farmer is a stronger vocation than even the priesthood. " The groups all thought that my point well made and was rather funny. 

Not knowing that Fr. Rashford had entered the back of the auditorium , I immediately heard from the good Padre, 
" Now ,now my dear Joseph , I think you've gone too far ."
Just then the almost full room bursted out in huge laughter. 
As usual my friend trumped me again. 

God Bless you Fr. Nick Rashford. May you rest in peace. Oh wait. I'm sure that the great Father Nick Rashford is still teaching someone something somewhere. I salute and celebrate a great life well lived. 

With the greatest honor of knowing you Nick and with sincere sorrow , I am ...

- Joseph M. Procacci, SJU 1974

Getting to Know Fr. Rashford as a Scholar and Poet

After I transitioned from a 28-year career as a pharmaceutical industry exec to a tenure-track professor, I had an office in Haub's "lost suite" of offices behind the Arrupe Center. To my great fortune, my office was next to Fr. Rashford. He became a mentor and shared his poetry as well as his homilies inviting my input with his encouragement to be as criitcal as though I was doing a blind review. I learned much and we developed a lasting friendship.

Fondly, I recall our last luncheon together at Manresa Hall in March. Fr. Nick, Deacon Dan DeLucca, Fr. Bill Byron and Fr. George - talk about being in the presence of accomplishment. With the passing of Fr. Nick, all have trantioned to the Jesuit Wing of Heaven but left an indelible impact on me.

- George P. Sillup

Fond Memories of Time with Fr. Nick in Wexford, Ireland

We have many fond memories of Fr Nick and the time he spent with us in Wexford over the last 50 years or so. He travelled home to marry us in August 1975. Rest in peace Nick.

- Kathleen and Michael O'Neill

Thank You, Nicholas

Nick was an original. No one reminds me of him and I'm sure no one ever will. He could be warm, charming, thoughtful, intelligent, and infuriating all in one conversation — and he often was! Project planning was open-ended; just when you thought an initiative had been examined to death, he'd call and say: "maybe we should have another look before we proceed. That, in itself, was infuriating, yet, hard as it always was to admit, that 50th and final look always resulted in something better. He enjoyed working with us on the design of street banners, covers of publications, art acquisitions, campus landscape enhancements, renovations to buildings and interiors, and on and on. The less said about his model trains here, the better.

He was a rather serious man who had a penchant for observing the world from behind his camera and commenting on it through his poetry. But, behind that seriousness (or was it sadness) he had a proclivity for getting into some very funny situations. Alas, none of them are tellable here. It brings to mind Italian journalist, Oriana Fallaci's question to Winston Churchill: "Are you happy Mr. Churchill" she asked. His reply: "Happy? What do you think I'm, an idiot?"

Nicholas, how I have missed you, and miss you still. Having your level of interest and enthusiasm for my/our work on a daily basis was encouraging beyond my ability to adequately express. God bless you!

- Carmen Croce

A Gentle Giant

Father Nick was a gentle giant—a man of quiet demeanor, a voice marked by depth and thoughtfulness, and a heart even deeper. His presence was calm yet profound, and his wisdom resonated in everything he said and did. I was continually struck by his approach to the CEO intervention course in the Executive MBA program. His methodology was not only strategic and thoughtful, but also deeply human. It wasn’t until my sabbatical, when I immersed myself in the Ignatian approach to teaching, that I fully grasped how profoundly these principles shaped his work.

Through many conversations with Father Nick, I came to see that his pedagogical philosophy—particularly his emphasis on process—was both strategically sound and a living embodiment of Ignatian values. His commitment to reflection, discernment, and meaningful action shaped his teaching—and our dialogues—with enduring significance.

Father Nick’s example was a catalyst for my work. He inspired me to develop a new research stream in pedagogy grounded in Ignatian values, a path that continues to shape my teaching today. His legacy endures in the countless students and colleagues whose lives were enriched by his insight, humility, and quiet strength.
 

- Alfredo Mauri
Professor of Management

Mentorship

During my junior year, I felt like I was up a creek without a paddle. Grades were mediocre, and athletic pursuits were mediocre. Fr. Rashford sensed something was wrong when I took his photography class and became the paddle I needed without realizing it. We formed a friendship, and he became a mentor and confidant. He helped ignite my passion for photography, travel, and writing. His kindness and curiosity to learn were infectious.

The friendship and check-ins continued after graduation, and I'm forever grateful. While traveling across North America in 2016 with my wife and our dog, Fr. Nick insisted we stop in and say hi so he could finally meet Pamela. It was a moment that meant so much since she had heard so many stories about Fr. Nick, and vice versa.

I will forever be blessed by his friendship, support, and guidance.

- Jon Robichaud

Father Rashford's Many Blessings

Our family has been truly blessed to have Father Rashford as an integral part of our lives for over 40 years. His presence has been a steady source of faith, love, and guidance.

Every Thanksgiving, Father would graciously offer Mass for our family — a cherished tradition. During these special gatherings, he would read a heartfelt poem that beautifully expressed God’s boundless love and then ask us all to share thoughts of how God’s love shows up in our lives. Those moments created a spiritual bond we share as a family, and speaks to the grace that flowed through Father’s words and presence.

We were honored to have Father Rashford officiate our wedding over 27 years ago — a day made even more sacred by his personal blessing. He later baptized all four of our children.

His kindness, faith, and unwavering devotion have left a lasting imprint on our hearts. We are deeply grateful for the love and light he brought into our lives.

- Franny & John Glomb
Jack, James, George & Alexandra

Our Cousin Fr. Nick

In Loving Memory of Fr. Nick

Fr. Nick was a man of deep faith, vibrant energy, and unwavering love for his family and heritage. In his younger days, he had a real passion for running and completing marathons—a testament to his determined spirit. I always cherished the times he visited us in Birmingham England. I’d cycle alongside him as he ran, beaming with pride just to be by his side, knowing I was related to someone so inspiring. My dad Paddy Rochford and Fr Nick shared many stories and loved to reminisce.

He was incredibly proud of his Irish roots and often visited Robinstown, Wexford—the home of his cousins and where my father’s family live. His connection to Ireland was more than just heritage; it was a living, breathing part of who he was. He held dear the stories of our ancestors and spent countless hours researching our family tree, sharing with us the stories that kept our history alive.

Some of my most treasured memories with Fr. Nick are the quiet moments—celebrating Mass together at home, just our family and him. I felt deeply honored when he celebrated my wedding to John. It meant the world to have his blessing on such an important day in our lives.

When we visited him in Philadelphia, his joy was infectious. He proudly showed us around the university, sharing its rich history and introducing us to his world. A trip to Atlantis City was a particular highlight—he was so happy to have us with him, showing us the sights and sharing his life. What stood out the most was how beloved he was—students at the University were constantly stopping to talk with him, ask for advice, or simply say hello. His kindness and wisdom left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Fr. Nick was a true inspiration. He lived with purpose, and carried his faith and heritage with pride. His presence in our lives was a blessing, and his memory will forever remain a guiding light in our hearts. Rest in Peace Fr. Nick.

– From all your cousins, The Rochford family in Birmingham England.

A Good Leader For SJU

I had the opportunity to work with Fr. Rashford many years ago as an external consultant, helping SJU conduct strategic planning.He was a bright and kind man and will be missed. He made a positive contribution to SJU during a challenging time and almost always had an encouraging attitude towards others.A good man.

- Patrick Sanaghan

Undeserved Grace

I graduated from a Jesuit high school in St. Louis. I received stout encouragement to be all I could be from
a Jesuit who engaged me to an accomplished senior year, which allowed an academic scholarship. 

I was enrolled as a freshman at Rockhurst, where Nick Rashford said Sunday night masses in the dormitory to a packed student crowd. Within 3 weeks of attending college, I received a call that the influential high school Jesuit had died of a sudden heart attack. Nick was passing through the chapel on a weekday evening and found me alone in the chapel in tears.

He said, how is it going? I told him one of his fellow Jesuits died earlier in the day. Nick came back after informing
the Rockhurst community. That was the beginning of several college retreat leadership with Nick, discussion of vocation, seeking his Johns Hopkins informed management classes and introducing him to running. He went from a stout Irish frame, to an entrant in a Kansas City 5K after another classmate bought him his first pair of adidas shoes. 
Management class choices, long talks with Nick on the other side of an Irish pipe, Irish stories, family concerns and
introduction to Jesuit values, philosophy and corporate culture development followed. 

Imbedded with Jesuit service vocations, I attended St. Louis University graduate schools and was blessed to have Nick concelebrate my marriage in a small town in Iowa to my bride of soon to be 40 years. I did not deserve his intellect, Navy discipline, or Hopkins insights. I was simply blessed to be included in friendship to see Christ in the world and the needs of service above career. 

Blessed am I. One of many who enjoyed family, Jesuit foundations, Ignatian instruction and reflection on "what I have learned" from and only Irish child from Peoria who with trust, became an Irish sage to many, for the betterment of heart and souls.

Looking forward to meeting Nick again, after I humbly attempt to do the same he did, the rest of my days. God Bless Nick.

- Patrick Bira

A Wonderful Jesuit and a Wonderful Man

A former businessman, I have worked for the Irish Jesuit Province since 1982 in a variety of capacities. Through my friend, David Coghlan SJ, I met and spent time with Nick on several occasions, both in the US and Ireland, especially in the eighties, nineties and noughties. Nick was a man who possessed an extraordinary blend of attractive qualities: deep Christian faith; quintessentially Irish; patriotically American; an erudite scholar; an insightful understanding of how organisations work; a unique ability to communicate with flair, imagination and humour. A ‘big’ man, in every sense, I will greatly miss him. May he enjoy the presence of his Lord. 

- Patrick Nolan

A Great Scholar

Together with David Coghlan, Father Rashford created a methodology, the CEO Intervention, to illustrate organizational interlevel dynamics in the strategy classroom. It turned out to be a very effective way to encourage reflective engagement as a way for students to help CEOs address a given challenge or question that had not yet been answered. The structure for addressing the challenge or question (Framing the Corporate Picture, Naming the Corporate Words, Determining Corporate Alternatives, Choosing and Implementing Corporate Actions, and Evaluating Corporate Outcomes) was flexible and was applied successfully to numerous companies in dozens of sectors over several decades.

The methodology called for two groups of EMBA students. The first was the Intervention team (the I-team), that engaged in a live classroom dialogue with the invited CEO positioned in the center of the classroom. The second was the Angel team (the A-team) that observed the I-team remotely and assisted through digital communication. While the I-team focused on content, the A-team focused on process so the I-team would remain on track throughout four-hour class sessions. By following the above structure through an interactive dialogue with intermittent “huddle” opportunities, the students not only learned how CEOs tackle challenges, but also contributed to their resolution. The in-class interventions were free-flowing within the structure while also forcing everyone in the classroom (the I-team, the A-team, the audience, and the instructor, and the guests) to be constantly on their toes.

From 2008 to 2019, I shared the classroom with Father Rashford while this method was being used in the EMBA program. Two things never ceased to amaze me. The first was Father’s acuity and encyclopedic knowledge, which enabled him to pose probing questions, often focusing on significant facts that had slipped by. The second was the fact that, while most of the CEOs had accepted the invitation to participate in the intervention process as a favor to a student, they invariably found the experience to be stunningly valuable. The invited CEO would arrive with prior knowledge of Father’s accomplishments, but during the second hour of guided dialogue it was often as if a light bulb had flicked on, and he or she would suddenly start paying closer attention. It was as if they were thinking, “Whoa! These students have some really good ideas!”

Father Rashford lived to the fullest with and for others. As I walked out of yesterday’s celebration of his life, I felt profound gratitude for having had the opportunity to learn from a master educator who never stopped teaching.

Thank you, Father. I will miss you.

- John Neiva

I was a Beneficiary of His, In Several Measures

While I was not personally acquainted with Father Rashford, I was indeed a direct beneficiary of his generosity and Ignatian spirituality. As a presidential scholar (class of 1993), I was able to translate the scholarship which bore his title into a learning experience that set the course for both my life and career. While we had minimal contact, Father Rashford's inspiration remains with me to this day. Quite simply, I would not have amounted to much without his help, for which I am eternally grateful. Requiescat in pace, Father. 

- David Bloomer