Rev. James Miracky, S.J., Ph.D.
Jersey City, N.J. – September 16, 2024 – Saint Peter’s University is proud to announce two key leadership appointments that will enhance the institution’s Jesuit mission and its dedication to social justice, diversity and inclusion. Rev. James Miracky, S.J., Ph.D., has been appointed to the position of vice president for mission integration and ministry, a new title that underscores the University’s unwavering commitment to embedding Jesuit mission priorities into all of Saint Peter’s educational, spiritual and community efforts. Additionally, Jennifer Thorndike-Gonzales, Ph.D., has been appointed to the position of chief diversity officer; executive director of diversity, equity, inclusion and justice (DEIJ); and project director of the Title V Bienestar grant, reporting to Fr. Miracky. She will also work closely with the president and the vice president for academic affairs to integrate DEIJ efforts throughout the campus.
“At Saint Peter’s, our Jesuit mission is not just a source of pride—it is the foundation of everything we do,” said Hubert Benitez, D.D.S., Ph.D., president of Saint Peter’s University. “It shapes our identity, guides our decisions and drives our commitment to fostering both academic excellence and social responsibility. These appointments are essential to ensuring that our mission remains a living force, deeply embedded in our curriculum, campus life and how we engage with the world beyond our doors.”
Jennifer Thorndike-Gonzales, Ph.D.
Fr. Miracky’s extensive background in Jesuit higher education, paired with his pastoral experience, positions him to effectively integrate mission-driven initiatives across campus. A Milwaukee native, he discovered his Jesuit calling at Canisius High School in Buffalo, N.Y. His decades-long career has included significant roles at the College of the Holy Cross, Loyola University Maryland and as Provincial Assistant for Higher Education in the USA East Province, where he served as a bridge between the Jesuits and eleven Jesuit universities along the East Coast. He also has experience as a spiritual director, retreat leader and parish priest.
Dr. Thorndike-Gonzales, an award-winning scholar and celebrated Latin American author, brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Born and raised in Perú, her personal and professional journey has been deeply intertwined with advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in academic settings. Prior to joining Saint Peter’s, she served as the Associate Director for the Student Center for Diversity and Inclusion at Drexel University. Her commitment to social equity is reflected in her six published works and numerous awards, including the prestigious Hatch Award.
These new leadership appointments signal a pivotal step in advancing the Jesuit mission at Saint Peter’s University, further solidifying its commitment to excellence, inclusivity and service to others.
# # end # #
For more than 150 years, Saint Peter’s University, inspired by its Jesuit, Catholic identity, commitment to individual attention and grounding in the liberal arts, educates a diverse community of learners in undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and professional programs to excel intellectually, lead ethically, serve compassionately and promote justice in our ever-changing urban and global environment. To learn more, please visit www.saintpeters.edu.
Media Contact
Angeline Boyer
aboyer1@saintpeters.edu
(201) 761-6238