Regis University Welcomes New Interim President, Father D. Scott Hendrickson, S.J.

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In a moment of transition for one of Denver’s most storied Catholic institutions, Regis University has named Father D. Scott Hendrickson, S.J., as interim president. The appointment will take effect July 21, 2025, following the departure of President Salvador D. Aceves, who will become president of his alma mater, the University of San Francisco — another Jesuit Catholic university.

The Regis University Board of Trustees announced the appointment after a period of discernment and prayer, entrusting the university’s leadership to a seasoned Jesuit educator with nearly 30 years of experience in formation, academics and service.

“Father Hendrickson joins Regis at a pivotal moment in the university’s journey, and we are confident that he will lead us through this transition with the wisdom and grace that have defined his life and career,” said Derek Scarth, chair of the Regis University Board of Trustees.

Father Hendrickson currently serves as associate provost at Loyola University Chicago. His academic credentials include a doctorate in medieval and modern languages from the University of Oxford and master’s degrees from New York University and Bowling Green State University. He has also studied at Pontifical Comillas University in Madrid and Saint Louis University. His commitment to Jesuit higher education is evident in his board service at Gonzaga University, Loyola Marymount University and Canisius University.

“I am deeply honored and excited to take on this important role and am grateful for the board’s confidence in me,” Father Hendrickson said. “The institution’s strength in mission, commitment to student belonging and success, its diverse academic profile and a clear track record of innovation and service position the university for a bright future. In its clear Jesuit identity, and facing the headwinds of higher education, Regis is rooted and ready.”

The Board expressed full confidence in Father Hendrickson’s ability to support the university’s senior leadership team as Regis continues the implementation of its strategic plan. The institution remains focused on student success, institutional health, mission integration and community impact — all firmly rooted in the Jesuit tradition of forming men and women for and with others.

Father Hendrickson’s appointment underscores the university’s unwavering commitment to the core values that have shaped its 145-year legacy: the pursuit of truth, care for the whole person and transformative education rooted in faith and service.

The Board also offered heartfelt gratitude to President Aceves for more than a decade of service in a variety of leadership roles. Under his guidance, Regis has strengthened its academic programs, enhanced mission-driven initiatives and deepened its impact across the Denver community and beyond.

“We ask for your prayers and support as Father Hendrickson assumes this important role,” said Scarth. “In the spirit of St. Ignatius, we trust that through collaborative leadership and faithful service, we will continue to fulfill our mission of developing leaders who will make a positive impact in our world.”