The Saint Anselm community shares just how much we’ve learned from our 11th president, Joseph A. Favazza, Ph.D.
When we first met President Joseph A. Favazza, Ph.D., seven years ago, we knew we were in store for something special. The energy he brought to campus was unmistakable; a quiet determination to get things done, mixed with a down-to-earth demeanor that put you at ease. And we weren’t disappointed. During his time as president, the college has experienced exceptional growth—the addition of several new buildings, the introduction of graduate programs and 4+1 opportunities, a robust student enrollment, and the establishment of different schools within the college.
For President Favazza, however, the crux of it all has always been about education. When Portraits first interviewed him for the Fall/Winter 2020 issue, he shared with us how he came to that realization. “I remember, back in the seminary, I had a priest who was teaching us how to give homilies,” he said. “And I really thought I was doing a great job, but he said to me, ‘You know, you’re teaching, not preaching.’”
That lightbulb moment helped guide him on his path to higher education, and eventually Saint Anselm College, where he has truly changed the Hilltop for the better.
And so, as we bid farewell to President Favazza, we thought it would be fitting to share just how much we’ve all learned from the preacher turned teacher.
ABBOT ISAAC MURPHY, O.S.B.
What have I learned from Joe Favazza? In the midst of two big crises early in his tenure, the Covid-19 pandemic and the governance dispute, Joe also kept his eye on the future, as a leader should. Not only did he juggle those two big crises and help us get through them, he simultaneously initiated the strategic planning process while continuing to treat everyone with respect, never losing his sense of humor.
COLBY LYNCH ’26, SGA President
The first time I met President Favazza was quite intimidating. I was merely a student getting a chance to meet with the president of the college. Not even five minutes into the conversation, however, the anxiety went away. President Favazza is one of the most down-to-earth and friendly people I've ever met. He made his office welcoming every time we stepped in it. I would see him at every event on campus with a smile on his face.
My favorite memory with President Favazza is when Caleb Lumbard ’26, SGA Vice President and I had a meeting with him to discuss SGA events, and instead we spent an hour talking about our respective spring break trips; Caleb and I had gone to South Carolina, and I think Dr. Favazza went somewhere in South America. If we didn’t need to have real conversations, I could’ve gone back and forth with him for hours about anything. That’s the kind of guy he is. He cares about helping the students, but he also cares about getting to know them. Dr. Lewis is great for this school, but Saint Anselm will miss President Favazza.
F. JOSEPH LOUGHREY, Chair, Board of Trustees
In the spring of 2020, I was elected board chair and began working with Joe. We began a practice of talking weekly on the phone or in person, which we continued during the five years I was chair. Initially, we had many issues to talk through—major stakeholder differences, the arrival of Covid, the upcoming accreditation review, and growing financial pressures. Joe also wanted to get the board engaged in the development of a strategic plan building on the Vision comments in his October 2019 inaugural address. Despite these real challenges (and others), Joe pursued the development and implementation of his Vision.
There are lots of leadership lessons that come from watching Joe closely. Progress requires a vision that becomes shared, a focus on students, the ability to adjust and deal with differences, and the unexpected, constant communication in a variety of ways that includes listening to all stakeholder groups and measuring progress along the way.
As a result of these activities, improvements are real and visible. More are underway. Potential student interest is high. Collaboration across stakeholder groups is stronger, and alumni engagement and support has increased significantly. As a result, Saint Anselm College is ready for the new president to take it to the next level.
SHEILA A. LIOTTA, PH.D., Vice President for Academic Affairs
I have appreciated the opportunity to work closely with President Joe Favazza for the past four years. Among many examples of his strong leadership, I have learned from him the value of person-to-person interaction to solve problems and build a sense of working together. In a world in which email and Zoom meetings might appear to keep us connected to others, Joe reemphasized for me the importance of making time for in-person, one-on-one conversations.
Moreover, he demonstrated how to be fully present in every conversation, no matter what else might be happening that day, which can be hard for a leader who might move directly from a celebratory event to a difficult budget meeting.
Even though this can be challenging for a leader with a full calendar and a wide range of obligations, Joe has shown it is more than worth the effort. I will always remember the example Joe has set, and I will strive to emulate it both professionally and personally.
SUSAN S. GABERT ’91 ED.D., Vice President for Student Development and Mission/ Dean of Students
What I’ve learned from Dr. Favazza is rooted in the way he lives out a deep commitment to mission, especially during challenging times. Whether navigating governance complexities or leading through Covid, he consistently demonstrated patience, calm, and grace. He never lost sight of what matters most: people. Students, faculty, staff, alumni, and benefactors were always at the center of his decisions, reinforcing that relationships, dignity, and care are foundational to a thriving community.
I’ve also been struck by his willingness to lead with both conviction and compassion in moments that call for moral clarity, such as the message sent recognizing Visibility Day. These actions reflect a leadership style grounded not only in principle, but in human dignity.
One moment that truly stands out is his speech at the dedication of the Jean School of Nursing and Health Sciences. He spoke through stories with a simple, powerful narrative that captured the essence of legacy. What stayed with me wasn’t just the content of the stories, but the idea that the stories we tell and the lives we touch ripple outward for generations. It was a reminder that every contribution, big or small, enriches the community in lasting ways.
That lesson continues to guide me. I hope to lead in a way that empowers others, especially our students, to recognize their gifts, share their stories, and leave a meaningful legacy at
Saint Anselm.
5 QUESTIONS FOR VALERIE DIAZ
As Dr. Favazza’s executive assistant, there are very few people on campus who know him better.
What has been your favorite thing about working with Dr. Favazza?
My favorite thing about working with Dr. Favazza has been witnessing the genuine care he brings to the Saint Anselm community every single day. Whether he is speaking with students, faculty, staff, members of the monastic community, or alumni, he makes people be seen and valued. His leadership has always felt personal, grounded in kindness and humility.
What do you think his favorite Anselmian tradition is?
I think Dr. Favazza’s favorite Anselmian tradition is anything that celebrates and supports our students. You could always count on him to show up. Whether it was an Abbey Players production, in the stands cheering on our student-athletes, attending poster sessions and showcases, he always made time in his schedule to be present for those important moments. Commencement, especially, held a special meaning for him because it represents the culmination of all those traditions and experiences.
What would people be surprised to know about Dr. Favazza?
After living in New England for more than 30 years, Dr. Favazza has never tried an iced coffee! As a Tennessean, he will not do it!
Is there something you’ve learned from him that has now become part of your everyday routine?
One thing I’ve learned from Dr. Favazza is the importance of leading with patience and grace. He consistently approaches challenges thoughtfully and treats people with respect, even during difficult moments. That example has influenced the way I communicate, solve problems, and interact with others in my everyday work.
What will you miss the most about working with Dr. Favazza?
What I will miss most about working with Dr. Favazza (and Paddy) is the friendship we’ve built over the years. Beyond working together, I’ll miss our daily interactions, especially our 2 p.m. Gallo Café runs, and our shared sense of humor. He has an incredible ability to connect with people personally, and I’ve been fortunate to experience that firsthand. It’s hard to imagine not seeing him every day, and I will miss my colleague and friend.
AUBREY SCHEOPNER TORRES, PH.D., Professor, Education/Director of Conversatio
I’ve learned more about the power of place and learning in community. In 2023, with support from a grant, a group of 12 faculty, staff, and a member of the monastery along with their families went on a Civil Rights Movement tour traveling to Atlanta, Montgomery, Selma and Memphis (Dr. Favazza’s hometown).
It was a life-changing experience. Touring museums, being at historic sites and slave warehouses, seeing the White House of the Confederacy across the street from Dexter Avenue Baptist Church where Dr. King preached and led the movement, and hearing from experts altered every conversation we have had since about racial justice. Not only was being present in those spaces moving, but we also had support from Dr. Favazza and Dr. Paddy Favazza. They hosted our group for meals, and, according to my children, they have the best yard for hide-and-seek.
We got to meet and hear from Dr. Favazza’s colleagues, who spoke about Dr. King’s legacy. They gave us tips on places we shouldn’t miss: Stax Recording Studio, Sun Records (“Birthplace of Rock ’n’ Roll” and Elvis), and Beale Street.
Both Dr. Favazza and Dr. Paddy Favazza created deeper connections with us, listening and guiding rather than lecturing. They learned with and alongside us, sharing their expertise, pushing our thinking, and asking questions along the way.
WILIAM FURLONG, Vice President for Finance and CFO
Over the past seven years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Joe Favazza. He has consistently demonstrated what steady, compassionate leadership looks like. His graciousness in every interaction, ability to remain even keeled through challenges, and unwavering commitment to a clear vision has left a lasting impression on everyone around him. More importantly, he didn’t just articulate that vision—he delivered on it with integrity and purpose. I’ve learned from his example that true leadership is not only about results, but about treating people with compassion, humility, and respect along the way.
PAUL J. PRONOVOST ’91, P ’25, Vice President for Strategic Marketing, Communications, and Public Relations
There are many aspects of Joe Favazza’s leadership that I admire. He is thoughtful, collaborative, kind, and genuine. And he is committed to doing the right thing, even in the most difficult circumstances where a shortcut or concession might be a more expedient and clean approach.
Joe always starts by asking, ‘What is best for students? What is best for our community?’ He faced challenges during his time as president, and he always viewed the answers through the prism of ‘What is the right thing for Saint Anselm College?’ He leads with clear intention and a devotion to the Anselmian values of care, respect, responsibility, and empathy for one another. He is an exceptional servant leader.
JAMES F. FLANAGAN, P ’23, P ’25, Senior Vice President and Chief Advancement Officer
Personally, Dr. Favazza has taught me so much about leadership and management. Working closely with him for the past seven years, I had a front-row seat and observed how calm and cool he was when he was under pressure and faced with major challenges like the worldwide Covid-19 pandemic.
Dr. Favazza is such a passionate and compassionate leader. I also think that, when the definitive history of Saint Anselm College is written, the seven years that Dr. Favazza was president and led our great college will be viewed as an unprecedented period of growth for Saint Anselm College.
Record enrollment, record endowment, record fundraising, new buildings and projects, and the addition of graduate programs and three new schools are just a few examples of the incredible success of Saint Anselm College during Dr. Favazza’s presidency.
HE DEMONSTRATED HOW TO BE FULLY PRESENT in every conversation, no matter what else might be happening that day.
5 FAVORITE MEMORIES
Dr. Favazza shares his five favorite memories from his time on the Hilltop, along with a few honorable mentions.
1. INAUGURATION (October 17, 2019).
I was simply humbled by all of the work and planning that went into the inauguration. Then further humbled by supportive words from students, faculty, staff, and trustees. All of the parts of our lives came together: family and friends from across the country, former colleagues from other academic institutions, and our new friends and colleagues here on the Hilltop. Besides, who wouldn’t like having their name in lights on the Sullivan Arena scoreboard?
2. COMMENCEMENT FOR THE CLASSES OF 2021 AND 2020 (May 2021).
What a weekend! We had the Class of 2021 commencement on Saturday, followed by the “make-up” commencement for the Class of 2020, who missed their chance to walk across the stage due to Covid. I promised we would have them back for an in-person commencement and I was thrilled to keep my promise. But perhaps we should not have put gift boxes under their seats with a bottle of Prosecco!
3. DEDICATION OF THE JEAN SCHOOL OF NURSING AND HEALTH SCIENCES AT GRAPPONE HALL (September 5, 2025).
It was a glorious sunny day that brought together dignitaries, trustees, donors, alumni, and students. Plus, food and free T-shirts! We opened the doors to an extraordinary facility that ensures we will continue to prepare nurses and health professionals for many years to come.
4. GIFT ANNOUNCEMENT (November 2025).
Very few college presidents have the experience of announcing a $40 million gift. I am so very grateful to Bob and Bev Grappone, who have been and continue to be incredibly generous to the college in honor of their son Gregory J. Grappone ’04. Following enrolling the largest first-year class ever, this gift put our growing momentum into overdrive.
5. HONORARY DEGREE (May 16, 2026).
While this was an honor for me, I see it as an honor also for Paddy. During my role as president, Paddy provided monumental support for our four children and three grandchildren when I was a bit preoccupied and supported me 200% 20 PORTRAITS | SPRING/SUMMER 2026 while representing Saint Anselm College as the unassuming (self-effacing) wife of president—profoundly grounded in the belief that God’s grace can be found in all people. She especially championed the hard but necessary work of the Intercultural Center, the Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging, and the Meelia Center for Community Engagement. I am so thankful we shared this Anselmian journey together.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Every Homecoming and Reunion Weekend.
I love greeting our alumni when they return to the Hilltop. Paddy and I agree that Saint Anselm alums have a “stickiness” to the place that we just have not experienced elsewhere. I believe it is the stability of the monks that give stability to the place. Alumni simply love coming back to the Hilltop and I love to be here when they do.
Summer lunches with the monks.
Each summer, Paddy and I host the monastic community for brunch on a Sunday. It is so much fun to have them over and learn more about each of them beyond their roles related to the abbey or college. Oh, the stories we could tell!
Every Open House and Admitted Student Day.
I have never thought of myself as a salesperson, but I love interacting with prospective students and their families and telling the story of Saint Anselm. We have had strong enrollments these past three to four years, and I believe it is because our mission resonated strongly with students looking not just for career outcomes but also life outcomes. We have a wonderful story to tell.
Senior Administrative Leadership Team (SALT) Meetings.
I won’t lie. Not every SALT meeting was memorable or pain- free. But as I look back, I am incredibly grateful to have had the extraordinary opportunity to work closely with colleagues so committed to the mission and who exercise their responsibilities with wisdom and care. I will miss them.
The seven years that Dr. Favazza was president and led our great college will be viewed as an UNPRECEDENTED PERIOD OF GROWTH FOR SAINT ANSELM COLLEGE.
THE FAVAZZA EFFECT
In his inaugural address, President Joseph A. Favazza, Ph.D., laid out the framework for what would become his strategic plan, Vision 2025, and eventually, Ascent to the Hilltop 2030. Today, seven years later, much of this is now a reality, or in motion to become so. Here’s a look at some of the highlights of that vision, which have resulted in tremendous growth and an exciting future for Saint Anselm College.
NEW BUILDINGS AND ATHLETIC FACILITIES
Campus looked a little different in the summer of 2019 when President Favazza arrived on July 1. The Savard Welcome Center groundbreaking was about to take place in September, with its ribbon cutting happening one year later. The Gregory J. Grappone Humanities Institute ribbon cutting came next in July 2023, providing a physical space and visible reminder of the central place the humanities hold on campus. Right on its heels, the groundbreaking for Grappone Hall, the new home of the Jean School of Nursing and Health Sciences, was held in fall 2023, with completion in fall 2025. Also, last fall, the Van Hoof Athletic Complex held its groundbreaking, with plans for an eight-lane track, turf soccer field, spectator seating, and a multipurpose building and locker room set for completion in fall 2027.
CREATION OF SCHOOLS
Plans for the launch and growth of three new schools within the college are underway. The Jean School of Nursing and Health Sciences was formally established in July 2023, and the Robert J. Grappone School of Business and Innovation was approved in June 2025. The formation of the School of Arts and Sciences, which will unite the humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences under a collaborative academic structure, was approved this spring.
GROWING PARTNERSHIPS
In 2023, President Favazza convened a committee to look at ways to coordinate and enhance partnerships, which has led to the creation of the Office of Partnerships. Some of our continued community collaborations include the Moore Center, WMUR, Montagne Powers, and Stay Work Play New Hampshire.
ACADEMIC INNOVATION
Four new graduate school programs have been rolled out in response to evolving market demands. These include Criminology and Criminal Justice (M.A.), Special Education (M.Ed.), Public Policy (M.P.P.), Nursing Leadership and Innovation (M.S.N. and P.M.C.).
STEWARDING OUR CATHOLIC AND BENEDICTINE MISSION
In September 2024, the college launched Anselmian Community Commitment, a program that allows New Hampshire students with a family income of $100,000 or less and a GPA of 3.25 or higher to attend the college tuition-free— allowing a Saint Anselm education to be affordable for as many talented, high- achieving students as possible, regardless of their socioeconomic background. A commitment that is completely aligned with the college’s Catholic and Benedictine Mission. Both Drs. Favazza also have shared an undeniable element of inclusion, moral conviction, humility, and integrity with the Hilltop. And in recognition of this, the college has renamed the annual social justice awards to The President Joseph Favazza and Dr. Paddy Favazza Social Justice Award.
Examples of Ascent to the Hilltop 2030 can be seen everywhere on campus, including, clockwise from top: the creation of schools with graduates from the college’s M.P.P. program; stewarding the Catholic and Benedictine Mission; and new buildings including the groundbreaking for the Gregory J. Grappone ’04 Humanities Institute, and Grappone Hall and the Jean School of Nursing and Health Sciences.