Franciscan University Mourns Passing of Former President Henry

Rev. Terence Henry, TOR, led the university from 2000 to 2013, overseeing a period of significant growth and strengthening its Catholic identity.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 6:35am

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The Franciscan University of Steubenville is mourning the passing of its former president, Rev. Terence Henry, TOR, who served from 2000 to 2013. During his tenure, Henry guided the university through a period of academic and enrollment growth while preserving its strong Catholic mission and identity.

Why it matters

Henry's leadership was crucial in maintaining Franciscan University's reputation for academic excellence and Catholic values during a time of significant change in higher education. His passing marks the end of an era for the university, which he helped shape into a prominent Catholic institution.

The details

Under Henry's presidency, Franciscan University expanded its campus, added new facilities, and welcomed more students while keeping class sizes small and upholding its commitment to faithful Catholic scholarship. He also oversaw the reintroduction of intercollegiate athletics and the strengthening of academic programs across disciplines. Henry was known for his advocacy of religious liberty and the dignity of human life.

  • Henry served as Franciscan University's president from 2000 to 2013.
  • He passed away on Saturday, March 16, 2026, at the age of 77.

The players

Rev. Terence Henry, TOR

The fifth president of the Franciscan University of Steubenville, serving from 2000 to 2013. He guided the university through a period of significant growth and strengthened its Catholic identity.

Rev. Dave Pivonka, TOR

The current president of the Franciscan University of Steubenville, who praised Henry's leadership and legacy.

Brenan Pergi

The senior vice president and chief of staff at the Franciscan University of Steubenville, who worked closely with Henry and remembered his kindness, humility, and deep faith.

Tim Delaney

The executive director of development at the Franciscan University of Steubenville, who recalled Henry's devotion to Christ, the Church, and the university's mission.

Rev. Michael Scanlan, TOR

The former president of the Franciscan University of Steubenville, who had led the university for 26 years before Henry took over.

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What they’re saying

“Father Terry loved education and believed educating young people is one of the greatest gifts we have to offer them.”

— Rev. Dave Pivonka, TOR, President, Franciscan University of Steubenville

“Father Terry was just the right person to lead Franciscan University during the years he served as president.”

— Brenan Pergi, Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff, Franciscan University of Steubenville

“Father Terry loved Franciscan University. He was deeply concerned about the secularization of our culture and believed that graduating educated young people, alive in their faith, was of vital importance.”

— Rev. Dave Pivonka, TOR, President, Franciscan University of Steubenville

“Father Terry was devoted to Christ, his church, the Franciscan Order and the mission of Franciscan University of Steubenville.”

— Tim Delaney, Executive Director of Development, Franciscan University of Steubenville

What’s next

Viewing and services for Rev. Terence Henry, TOR will be held at St. Francis Friary in Loretto, Pennsylvania. Viewing will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 20, 2026, followed by a Vigil Service at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 21, 2026.

The takeaway

Rev. Terence Henry, TOR's legacy as president of the Franciscan University of Steubenville is one of faithful leadership, academic growth, and an unwavering commitment to the university's Catholic mission. His passing marks the end of an era, but his impact on the institution and its students will continue to be felt for years to come.