Vincent D. Rougeau assumed office as 33rd president of Holy Cross on July 1, 2021. He is the first lay and first Black president in the College’s history.
Rougeau’s demonstrated leadership, commitment to the liberal arts, and deep embrace of Jesuit, Catholic higher education distinguished him from a diverse and highly qualified pool of candidates after a thorough national search process.
Prior to his arrival at Holy Cross, Rougeau was dean of the Boston College Law School and the inaugural director of the new Boston College Forum on Racial Justice in America, a meeting place for listening, dialogue, and greater understanding about race and racism in America.
“I am thrilled to be joining the Holy Cross community as its new president,” Rougeau shared when he was announced president. “I have long admired the College for its academic excellence, its talented students and accomplished alumni, its dedicated faculty and staff and its unique place as our nation's only Jesuit, Catholic liberal arts college. Our current moment in history cries out for the mission-driven education that Holy Cross provides, and I am very excited about what this community can accomplish in the years ahead.”
Both Rougeau’s scholarship and his leadership demonstrate his profound dedication to the College’s Jesuit, Catholic mission, building a diverse and respectful community, and educating students toward seeking justice and making a meaningful difference in our world.
Rev. Joseph M. O’Keefe, S.J.,’76, Provincial of the USA East Province of the Society of Jesus, said, “During our time together at Boston College, I discovered that Vincent Rougeau has a deep understanding of, and appreciation for, the Jesuit, Catholic vision of higher education. Moreover, he has the leadership skills to make that vision a reality. I am delighted to welcome Vince and his wife Robin to our Holy Cross family."