A Dream Comes True

One morning I visited my old “boss” and friend, the Rev. James A. Young, now retired, to discuss his contributions to St. Mary’s.

Young’s vision for the University began in the 1950s. As academic vice president, he drafted his Academic Blueprint, which mapped out future plans. A key component was a major convocation center to meet the needs of a growing campus. For his plan to work, he engaged trustees and friends in discussions about those needs.

Completion of both the University Center and the Alumni Athletics & Convocation Center occurred under another’s watch, but Father Jim planted the seeds more than 40 years ago.

To capture his essence, witness Young’s skills at consensus-building, his commitment to his priestly ministry, his love for others and for Marianist life, and his belief in the strength of community. And, there’s his cheerfulness, his benevolent smile. His conviction that a partnership between professed Marianists and lay collaborators is essential was nurtured among St. Mary’s constituents before, during and after his presidency.

Now, in the autumn of his life of devotion to the Blessed Mother, he speaks reverently of the University’s growth, which he attributes to cooperation among many people who worked together toward a common good.

As our visit was ending, that dazzling smile radiated across his face. He said, “I am blessed to have been a part of St. Mary’s, and I want people to know that their efforts with the dreams for the future have made ours an even stronger university.

“I want all of those who helped to know how deeply grateful I am to have been a part of it all.”

The Rev. James Young, S.M., retired since 1999, has been a Marianist for 69 years.