Presidential Thought Leadership Series

The Presidential Thought Leadership Series centers on the intellectual life which has been the hallmark of Catholic higher education for more than nine centuries and showcases renown academic, business and public service leaders, and innovative visionaries from around the world. The Series which pays tribute to the Brothers of Christian Instruction was launched on Founders Day, November 17, 2021.

photo of President Collins speaking at a podium

“As a Catholic institution of higher education and a community asset, Walsh University has a duty to offer intellectual opportunities to discuss issues of national importance, to consider and engage with new ideas and approaches that challenge the steadfast opinions we all carry, and to grow spiritually and in ways that will make us more informed citizens and a more grateful community. It is also an opportunity to engage on a personal level with first-rate, serious-minded people.”

– Dr. Tim Collins, Walsh University President

Diplomacy in the Catholic Church

Wednesday, April 3, 2024

Walsh University hosted a truly extraordinary guest for its 2024 Spring Presidential Thought Leadership Series: a key figure shaping international diplomacy at the United Nations. Sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. Tony Orahoske (Tony ’82), this event marked a historic first for the University, shedding light on the profound subject of Diplomacy in the Church and its far-reaching global impact.

The fireside chat featured Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations in New York and Bishop David Bonnar of the Youngstown Diocese, who served as a moderator. It attracted an audience of around 250 community members, including representatives from the Youngstown Diocese, Walsh University faculty, staff, students, board members, alumni, and local dignitaries, all eagerly seeking enlightenment.

photo of Archbishop Caccia and Bishop Bonnar speaking on stage

photo of Archbishop Caccia speaking to students

photo of President Collins, Archbishop Caccia, and Bishop Bonnar making swords up hand gesture

U.S. National Security Policy Panel with World Leaders

Tuesday, September 5, 2023

The U.S. National Security Policy Panel with World Leaders drew an audience of more than 1,000 Walsh University students, employees, past and present board members, alumni, public figures, and community members, to one of the most prestigious events to ever take place in North Canton, Ohio! Topics ranged from what it means for a nation to be secure, the importance of NATO, U.S. relations with our allies and adversaries, including Ukraine, Russia, China, North Korea, and others. It was also an honor to invite our esteemed guests, General Philip M. Breedlove, Ambassador Francis Campbell, General Tod D. Wolters, and Dr. Joe Wood, to engage in discussions with students, faculty, coaches and staff on leadership, their career journeys and more, throughout the day.

Understanding Human Sex and Intimacy with Faith and Reason

November 17, 2021

Walsh University welcomed a world-renowned theologian and biologist to campus to deliver the keynote for the inaugural Presidential Thought Leadership Speaker Series. Father Nicanor Austriaco, O.P., surprised many with his frank discussion that centered on “hookup culture vs. Catholic culture,” entitled Understanding Human Sex and Intimacy. Fr. Nicanor, a Professor of Biology and Theology at Providence College in Providence, Rhode Island, a research fellow at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, Philippines, and a bioethics consultant for the Conference of Catholic Bishops in both the United States and of the Philippines, has a deep understanding of how faith and science come together. He is well-known and highly respected by scientists, governments and the Catholic community.