Reflections on 20 Years of Leadership as the Xavier University President, with Fr. Michael Graham

Fr. Michael Graham spent over 30 years at Xavier University in Cincinnati, first as an assistant history professor in 1989, then as the VP for University Relations in 1994, and lastly, from 2001 to 2021 as the longest-serving University President. Fr. Graham’s achievements as the XU president are far and wide and include expanding the campus 80 acres, raising 500 million for the university and joining the Big East conference to name a few. But what made Fr. Graham so effective as leader was his connection to the students and his staff. In this interview with Matt, Fr. Graham fondly recalls the stories of students he was able to help in their life journey at Xavier and how proud he is of the path they are on now, living as men and women for others. In addition, Matt and Fr. Graham talk Xavier basketball and how the University has grown to have a more national presence attracting students from all over the country with diverse backgrounds and talents. You can also view this conversation on YouTube here.