Asked and Answered

What is your job?
I am the President of Creighton University and have been since 2000. I have been at Creighton three times, and each time the same thing brought me here, the students. I think our success is what our students become. And they become wonderful women and men who truly do change the world and the society around them.

Other on-campus activities?
One of my greatest joys, quite honestly, is presiding at a student liturgy. I really find that to be an affirming activity. I also attend various sporting events, especially men’s basketball games at the Qwest Center. My favorite spot in Omaha is the Jesuit Gardens, a great place for lunch. And strolling leisurely around the mall, which runs from 27th to 17th streets.

Your hobbies?
My best form of relaxation is actually exercise. I’m sort of a fitness freak in the fact that I enjoy exercise on a daily basis. When I slow down, I like to curl up with a good book or I like to take a hike, things of that nature. I also like to garden and cook.

Favorite music?
I am pretty eclectic. I enjoy classical music, especially 17th and 18th century chamber music. I am an opera buff. I love the opera and go as often as I can, live or watching the simulcast at Filmstreams. But I also like Jackson Browne, Bruce Springsteen, the Black Eyed Peas and the new indie scene.

Favorite movies?
I’m not a movie buff, but I like old movies, like Casablanca and A Man For All Seasons, movies that have moral dilemmas in them. “Breaker” Morant is another, an Australian video from 1980, about the Boer War.

Favorite books?
History and biography, David McCullough’s John Adams, most recently. I’ve read Churchill cover to cover, and I think I’ll read him again.

Fun Facts?
I think a lot of people would be surprised how comfortable I am on a farm. I’m from Dubuque, Iowa, and growing up, my grandfather had a rather large Iowa farm, and I spent all my summers out there.