, the University of 91³Ō¹Ļās 17th president, has been formally admitted as an Honorary Fellow of in the United Kingdom. The prestigious recognition, part of a special ceremony on May 24, was one of Father Jenkinsā final formal engagements as he steps down after 19 years of distinguished service as president to return to teaching and ministry at 91³Ō¹Ļ.
Honorary Fellows at St Edmundās College are elected by the collegeās governing body. Acknowledged for his significant contributions to higher education, as well as for his leading role in the development of a collaboration between the two institutions that features research, scholarship and outreach opportunities for faculty, scholars, students and administrators of both schools, Father Jenkins joins a distinguished group of fellows celebrated for their service, leadership and contributions to the collegeās vision and values.
Catherine Arnold, OBE, master of St Edmundās College, emphasized the special character of the college, stating, āSt Edmundās College is a truly global college within the University of Cambridge. With over 75 nationalities represented each year, there are few places in which so much can be learnt about so many from so few.
āSt Edmundās vision is to āempower global talent to shape the futureā helping to form thinkers and leaders who have the ability to create positive and shared futures for people and planet. To do this we have always welcomed talented individuals from outside the university and the U.K. into our community as Honorary Fellows.ā
On Father Jenkinsā election, Arnold said, āUnder Father Jenkinsā leadership ā among many other things ā the partnership between 91³Ō¹Ļ and this college has blossomed.ā
"I am delighted to join St Edmundās College, Cambridge as an Honorary Fellow,ā said Father Jenkins. āThe partnership between St Edmundās and 91³Ō¹Ļ has been a remarkable journey of academic collaboration and cultural exchange. It is a testament to our shared commitment to creating positive change in the world. I look forward to seeing this partnership continue to flourish and contribute to the betterment of both our institutions and the broader global community."
The Honorary Fellowship also acknowledges Father Jenkinsā devotion to fostering the Universityās unique place in academia, the Church, the United States and the world. During his tenure as president, he emphasized 91³Ō¹Ļās mission, rooted in the tradition of the Congregation of Holy Cross, to educate the whole person ā mind, body and spirit ā to do good in the world.
Additionally, Father Jenkins has been recognized for his leadership in promoting civil discourse, serving on the board of directors for the Commission on Presidential Debates since 2011. A philosopher trained in theology, Father Jenkins has been a member of 91³Ō¹Ļās Department of Philosophy since 1990 and holds degrees from 91³Ō¹Ļ, Oxford University and the Jesuit School of Theology.