The Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia joins Saint Joseph’s University in mourning the passing of Nicholas S. Rashford, S.J., a man of deep and abiding faith, whose priestly vocation spanned more than six decades. As the 25th president of Saint Joseph’s University, Father Rashford was a visionary leader who guidedgenerations of students with wisdom, humility, and a Christ-centered heart.

His impact, however, reached far beyond the halls of academia and Hawk Hill. A trusted voice in civic and economic affairs, Father Rashford helped shape the cultural and economic fabric of the City of Philadelphia. Yet perhaps more enduring than his professional achievements was the quiet strength of his pastoral presence — a priest always, a servant to the people of God.

We are especially grateful for Father Rashford’s foundational role in The Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia, where he served as a founding member of our Board of Trustees. His insight, generosity, and spiritual depth helped shape the mission of the Foundation in its earliest days, laying the groundwork for the charitable and apostolic work that continues today.

Mr. Richard T. Clark, Chairman of The Catholic Foundation’s Board of Trustees said, “Father Rashford was always a strategic thinker and an incredible mentor to me as the Chair. We had many meaningful conversations concerning the mission and planning of The Catholic Foundation. I often sought his advice and knowledge on organizational planning and donor cultivation.”

“I knew Father Rashford for many years. He truly was a visionary, a wise leader and most importantly a faithful priest of God,” said Reverend Monsignor Francis W. Beach, Emeritus Member of the Board of Trustees of The Catholic Foundation.

He went on to say, “When I was charged by Archbishop Chaput to found The Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia, I met first with Dick Clark and asked him if he would help me to build the founding Board of Trustees for the Foundation. Together we brainstormed about who were some of the great leaders of Philadelphia who would be interested in supporting the vision and mission of the Foundation. Father Rashford was on the top of our list and he graciously accepted our invitation. When he spoke at the Board meetings, everyone would listen. We were all blessed to have known Father Rashford and to work with him as a colleague for the good of the Church of Philadelphia. May he rest in God’s eternal peace.”

Father Rashford believed in the power of the Catholic Church to serve — not merely through words, but through action. His life stands as a testimony to what it means to serve with integrity, intellect, and love for the Church. We entrust his soul to the mercy of God and give thanks for the countless lives he touched.

May the angels lead him into paradise.
Requiescat in pace.

Ted Qualli
President and CEO
The Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia

To read more about Father Rashford’s life and legacy, please visit Saint Joseph’s University’s memorial page, please click here.