Fr. George  Lane, President of Loyola Press for the last 21 years, has become President Emeritus and Terry Locke, until now our Chief Operating Officer, is our new President.  A laywoman as head of a major Jesuit work.  Will the wonders never cease?  Yours truly was appointed Publisher. 

Here are the comments I offered when the changes were announced:

For 18 years, I lived and taught at Le Moyne College in Syracuse, NY.  I loved my time there, but one of my frustrations was that some of my colleagues were uneasy about it being a Catholic and Jesuit institution. 

Imagine my delight, therefore, when I came to the Press and discovered that, with only one Jesuit — our redoubtable Fr. George — on staff, here was a Jesuit work that was unambiguous about who we are and which consciously and enthusiastically embraced the Jesuit mission of helping people develop a closer friendship with God.

Loyola Press is a special place, but only because you are a group of remarkable people.  I love being here. I am privileged and honored to be part of this great work. Now, with Terry as our President, I am certain that we will move from strength to strength.

 Why have I been named Publisher?  I can give you two reasons.  The title will allow me greater access to key decision makers among our customers. Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, it underlines the commitment of the Society of Jesus to this important ministry.

Ignatius lived in a time of great turmoil, when old answers no longer held sway. He stood as a prophetic and optimistic voice, helping people to find God in new and exciting ways. Our own days are equally tumultuous and our answers just as stale. I believe that Ignatian Spirituality (and, therefore, the Press) is uniquely suited to provide authentic, hopeful and relevant guideposts to people today. 

This is the noble mission to which we are called.

Related posts:

1. Hail to the Chief!
2. The simple gift of “Hello”
3. The long and winding road … Part 7
4. Eve of St. Ignatius Day
5. Images